BLOG––Encouraged by Faith

The daily news weighs heavy on us all. Not only have school shootings become common, but racism is rampant and frequently excused. Whether it is a pick-up truck slowing down in a quiet neighborhood or the police brandishing their badges and personal assumptions, we have chosen hatred and...

Our lives may look and feel different than they did a few months ago. Some of us may be dealing with the extra stress due to family logistics, elder care or economic distress. We may be worried about how to deliver a crucial presentation via zoom with the entire family now at home, or whether...

Earlier this year, I facilitated a conversation class on Sunday mornings entitled ”Seasoned with Salt,” in which we discussed both foundational and transformational teachings of our faith. We talked about things like the significance of the Trinity, and this triune God being mutually...

Although we are sometimes overwhelmed by our own sense of emptiness, we have access to the power of him who overwhelmed death, emptying the grave. Resurrection Sunday has come and gone again, but I still celebrate Easter. This rising is a glorious symbol of victory over worldly powers that...

Even with plenty of food in my pantry and no pressing physical needs worrying me, the past couple of weeks have been difficult for me emotionally. I suspect that it is the same for many of you. Do you feel like quitting sometimes? It takes an entire lifetime to be formed into Christ’s...

This week begins the liturgical season of Lent. It is a contemplative time of waiting for Easter, the glorious Sunday of Jesus’ resurrection. Although our group does not observe strict Lenten practices, there are benefits to preparing our minds and hearts toward God at this time. It can be...

We frequently hear about the dangers of toxic people. The internet seems full of warnings, reassuring us our happiness is more important and we do not need such people in our lives. If we believe the memes featuring people gazing peacefully from mountain peaks, we do not need that kind of...

“How old are you?” She usually runs most places, as if her intended destination is ephemeral, as if she might miss a second of its treasure if she were to arrive a moment too late. Then, she is off elsewhere. Sometimes there seems to be a randomness to her movements, but always...

Nearly every culture has a day of thanksgiving. It may be a day closely connected to the autumn harvest; it may be a religious holiday, or a day to gratefully honor the dead, or namesakes. Still, it is nearly universal, regardless of whether or not it involves turkey. Gratitude is not only...

Much of my fatigue is emotional. Although my days are full and sometimes I don’t allow myself enough sleep, mostly I am tired from worry and stress. There isn’t an overwhelming tragedy in my life, but several hefty worries that feel oppressive. Can you relate? I act as if I can and...