Forty days is a long time. A true test, if you know what I mean. Long enough to lose trust and choose an idol. Long enough to fear giants in a land of promise. And long enough, too, for the only faithful human to pass a test that would change the world.* This is why we do it. This season we call Lent. We mark off 40 days leading to the cross. 40 days reminding us that we are fractured and fragile and unfaithful people.  My husband gave up fretting for Lent. Specifically he ha

Photo by Joshua Reddekopp on Unsplash Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness covered the surface of the watery depths, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. (Genesis 1:2) Looking back on my life and testimony, I’ve been struck by a certain progression. I was aware of God and genuinely drawn to Him as a young child. My relationship with Jesus became especially personal at the age of twelve. And I became intimately acquainted with the Holy S

I wake a few minutes later than usual sensing light. Something feels light.  My husband is still sleeping. The dog, too. And I think, maybe the worst of it is over. Maybe we survived.  The sky out my kitchen window, tucked between barren trees, glows pink. And as I carry coffee toward my favorite chair—I see it. Full moon shimmering over frozen waters. No wonder I’m feeling light.  I fill lungs, exhale, breath-prayer: thank you.  We made it. Again. Like every year. We survive

The new year dawns. I’m awake early, a few quiet moments alone in a house still full of family. I’m remembering and reflecting. Looking back at a year of hints and discovery. Taking my first tentative steps into a year of unknowns. A couple of weeks ago, heading into the throes of Christmas, I’d come up with a word: FRUITFUL I took note, ruminated a bit, let it sit for a while in the back of my mind. As the festivities of the season ramped up, I remained aware, thinking this