Holy Saturday: The Day In Between

It's the day after.
You know that feeling.
The phone calls have been made.
The tears have been cried -- at least the first wave.
And now -- there’s silence.
A quiet so heavy it almost echoes.

Yesterday, everything changed.
Jesus -- Teacher, Healer, Friend -- was gone.
Laid in a borrowed tomb.
Stone rolled shut.
Hope -- sealed behind it.

Can you imagine the disciples?
They had walked with Him, laughed with Him, watched Him do the impossible. Blind eyes opened. Dead hearts awakened. Storms silenced.

And now…nothing.
No miracles.
No voice.
No movement.

Just Saturday.
The in-between day.

The day where promises feel distant and prayers seem unanswered.
The day where heaven feels quiet and hearts feel heavy.

They had heard Him say it -- three days.
But grief has a way of drowning out truth.

Maybe you know that feeling. I do.
When a prayer feels buried.
When a relationship feels beyond repair.
When your future looks like it’s been sealed behind a stone.

Holy Saturday whispers, “It’s over.”
But heaven -- is holding its breath.

Because what looks like the end -- is only the pause before the greatest beginning.

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

The is the "hold on" day when we learn to wait.
Not with despair -- but with quiet, stubborn hope.

Because God is still working -- even when we can’t see it.
Even in the silence.
Even in the tomb.

Saturday is real.
Saturday hurts.
Saturday lingers.
But Saturday doesn’t win.

Because buried dreams aren’t dead.
Promises aren’t forgotten.
And love -- cannot be contained.

So if today feels like your “in-between,” hold on!

Sunday is not just coming --
it’s already on the way.

And when it arrives?
The stone will roll.
The grave will empty.
And everything will change.

If today feels like the “in-between,” you’re not alone.
Saturday may feel silent -- but God is still working.
Hold on -- Sunday is coming. I can hardly wait!

#HolySaturday #InBetween #SundayIsComing

Good Friday -- Not, Black Friday?

 

That’s what it feels like when loss hits close to home. When our hearts are breaking and the world keeps spinning like nothing happened. People laugh. Traffic moves. Life goes on.

And we wonder how we can go on?
An innocent Man -- kind, compassionate, blameless -- betrayed, beaten, nailed to a cross. Justice twisted. Truth silenced. Love rejected.

There was nothing “good” about the scene.
The whip tore His back.
The crown pressed into His brow.
The nails pierced His hands and feet.

And heaven? It was silent.

Jesus could have called ten thousand angels.
One word -- and it would have been over.
But He didn’t.
He stayed.
Not because He was powerless --
but because He was full of love.

“He was pierced for our transgressions -- by His wounds we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

Every lash -- for our healing.
Every drop of blood -- for our forgiveness.
Every moment of agony -- for our eternity.

This was the greatest injustice the world has ever seen --
and the greatest rescue the world will ever know.

So why do we call it Good Friday?
Because what looked like defeat -- was actually victory in disguise.

Because what felt like the end -- was only the beginning.
Because on that cross, -- Jesus didn’t just die -- He paid it all.

Sin lost its grip.
Death lost its sting.
Hope took a breath.

Oh, my friends -- this is true love.
Not words.
Not feelings.
Action.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

So today, let's not rush past the cross.
We pause.
We remember.
We feel the weight of it.

But we don’t stay in the sorrow.
Because the grave couldn’t hold Him.
And Sunday is already on its way.

Good Friday isn’t the end of the story.
It’s the reason we have one.

It looked like the worst day in history --
but it became the greatest rescue of all time.
Jesus stayed on the cross -- for you, for me.
Hold on, children -- Sunday is coming. ✝️

#GoodFriday #ItIsFinished #LoveThatSaved

Holy Thursday -- Love at the Table

Remember Throwback Thursday? TBT
Old photos. Big hair. Bell bottoms. Memories that make us smile.

But this Thursday -- this isn’t a throwback.
It’s a comeback of the heart.

Not just a picture on a wall of "The Last Supper" -- but a living moment filled with love and passion -- yet tension and deceit.

Jesus sat at the table with the very men He had walked with for over three years. He had healed, taught, comforted, and carried them. He had whispered, “Do not be afraid,” more times than they could count.

And now -- He says something that stops the room cold:
“One of you will betray Me.”

Can't you feel it? The silence. The confusion. The sting.
And yet -- Jesus doesn’t get up and leave.
He doesn’t call down angels.
He stays.
He breaks bread.
He lifts the cup.
“Do this in remembrance of Me.” (Luke 22:19)

Then -- He does the unthinkable.
The King kneels.
He washes their feet.
Dusty. Worn. Imperfect feet.
Even Judas’ feet.

Peter resists -- because grace like that feels undeserved.
But Jesus gently reminds him, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with Me.” (John 13:8)

Oh, doesn't this cut deep?
Because this night wasn’t just about clean feet.
It was about a cleansing only Jesus could give.

While lies were forming,
While betrayal was already in motion.
While thirty pieces of silver clinked in a hidden pocket.....
Jesus chose love.
Not shallow love.
Serving love.
Costly love.

The kind that kneels when it should stand.
The kind that gives when it knows it will be wounded.

And here WE ARE at the table.....
Would we have stayed at the table?
Would we have followed Him to the cross?
Or would fear have whispered us away?

Holy Thursday doesn’t ask for perfection.
It asks for surrender.

“Lord, wash me.”
“Lord, cleanse me.”
“Lord, make me a vessel.”
"Lord, I surrender all."

Because the truth still stands -- not for just the disciples -- mercy, forgiveness, sacrifice, and love poured out for all of us.

This wasn’t just a meal. It wasn't just a foot-washing. It was the beginning of everything.

Today, let's come to the table and let our Lord and Savior wash our heart and feet clean, too! ✝️

#HolyThursday #LoveThatServes #ComeToTheTable

Holy Wednesday -- Halfway There

We call Wednesday “Hump Day.”
Weekend in sight. Hang on just a little longer.

But this Wednesday?
This one wasn’t about pushing through to something easy.
For Jesus, it meant one day closer to the cross.

Scripture tells us this day is often called “Spy Wednesday.” Judas --one of His own -- went to the chief priests and asked, “What will you give me if I deliver Him to you?” Thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:14-15)
Just like that -- betrayal had a price tag.

And yet, while schemes were being whispered in dark corners, Jesus was doing something altogether different.
He was being still.

This “Silent Wednesday” finds Him in Bethany -- just a couple miles from Jerusalem -- resting with friends He loved: Lazarus, Mary, and Martha. No crowds. No miracles on display. Just presence.

And then Mary does something unforgettable.
She pours costly perfume over Jesus. Extravagant. Generous. Beautiful.

Judas protests -- “What a waste!”
(Interesting how the loudest critics often have the quietest integrity.)

But Jesus sees it clearly.
“She has done this to prepare Me for burial.”

He knew what was coming -- every lash, every thorn, every nail. And still, He stayed the course.

Back here in our world, Easter can slip in quietly too.
Christmas gets the lights, the sparkle, the full production.
But Easter? It often tiptoes in -- no fanfare, just a whisper.

And maybe that’s fitting.
Because when someone we love is walking toward suffering, we don’t throw a party. We draw close. We grow quiet. We remember.

Holy Wednesday invites us to do the same.
To sit with Him.
To reflect.
To feel the weight of what He carried -- willingly -- for us.

While betrayal was being planned, Jesus chose stillness, love, and obedience.
And though this day feels silent -- hold on, my child!
Let's sit with Him today. Sunday is coming. ✝️

#HolyWeek #SilentWednesday #HeKnew

Temple Tuesday -- Truth that Stands

I feel a quiet stirring in my heart. I don’t want to move through this week distracted or unaware. This is the week Jesus walked steadily toward the cross -- for me, for you.

And I find myself wanting to slow my pace, soften my heart, and walk with Him -- all the way to Calvary, and then to the joy of the resurrection.

Holy Week is moving forward -- and Tuesday finds Jesus right where we might expect Him -- in the Temple.

Not resting. Not retreating. Teaching.
If Monday was about cleansing the Temple, Tuesday was about filling it with truth.

Jesus knew His time was short. Every word mattered. Every moment carried weight. And yet, instead of softening His message, He leaned in with clarity, courage, and conviction.

The religious leaders questioned Him. Challenged Him. Tried to trap Him. But oh -- they underestimated Who they were talking to.

Matthew 22:46 says: “No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask Him any more questions.”

Jesus spoke truth that stood firm. Through stories -- parables about vineyards, banquets, coins, and eternity -- He opened eyes and revealed hearts. Some leaned in. Others pushed back. But no one walked away unchanged.

And isn’t that still true today? Jesus doesn’t just offer suggestions.
He offers truth.

And in a world full of noise, opinions, and confusion -- truth can feel a little uncomfortable. (Okay… sometimes a lot uncomfortable)
But truth is also what sets us free.

As I think about this day, I’m reminded of something simple yet powerful -- even when life feels uncertain -- God’s truth never wavers.

We may be walking through something heavy right now -- loss, uncertainty, strained relationships, or just trying to make ends meet. Take heart.

This same Jesus who stood in the Temple teaching with authority -- stands with you today.

He sees.
He knows.
He cares.
And the story isn’t over.

We’re still moving toward the cross -- and oh, what a painful path that will be. Let's not forget -- we already know the ending.

The stone rolls away.
Hope rises.
And our Champion wins.

So today, on this Temple Tuesday -- let's lean into His truth.
Let it steady our hearts. Because when Jesus speaks -- it stands!

#templetuesday #jesusspeaks #HolyTuesday

Holy Monday -- A Heart Made Clean

I find myself remembering my Holy Lands experiences from years ago. I walked where Jesus walked. Something in me stood still and came alive all at once. I was deeply moved by what I saw, what I felt, and by the quiet, undeniable sense that I was standing on holy ground.

I stood on the soil He touched, saw the places He taught, and felt something deep in my soul whisper, “He was here.” And somehow, even more personal -- “He did this for you.”

I didn’t need a plane ticket to know He lives -- but oh, being there made it feel so real. Like stepping into the pages of Scripture. Like hearing the echo of that old hymn, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?”

And the answer, in my heart, was yes.
Because He had you and me on His mind.
Now here we are -- Holy Monday.

Just one day after the cheers of Palm Sunday, the palms -- still fresh on the ground, but Jesus already knew what was ahead. The same voices that cried “Hosanna!” became quiet.

And what did He do on this Monday?
He walked into the temple -- and cleaned house.

Tables overturned. Coins scattered. Not out of anger alone, but out of holy love. His Father’s house had been crowded with noise, greed, and distraction. It was meant to be a place of prayer -- and He restored it.

And then -- don’t miss this -- the blind and the lame came to Him there, and He healed them. (Matthew 21:14)

Even in the middle of the mess… Jesus made room for mercy.
That’s Holy Monday.

And maybe -- that’s our invitation too.
To let Him step into the crowded places of our hearts.
To overturn what doesn’t belong.
To clear out fear, worry, pride, and distraction.

Not to shame us -- but to make room for healing.
Because the same Jesus who walked into that temple -- walks into our lives today and every day -- in our homes and In our quiet moments.

He still cleans.
He still restores.
He still loves.

So on this Holy Monday, let’s open the doors wide.
Let Him do His work.
And oh, what peace comes when He does.

Palm Sunday -- Our King has Come!

 

Oh, what a Savior. Oh, hallelujah!

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week -- the grandest story ever told -- that started with a baby coming quietly into our world.

No spotlight. No royal announcement -- just a humble stable, a young mother, and a promise wrapped in swaddling clothes.

That baby grew into a man who healed the broken, restored the weary, touched the untouchable, and loved people like you and me.

And today, we celebrate His ride into Jerusalem.
Not on a war horse, but on a donkey.
Not with a crown of gold, but with a heart full of surrender.

The streets filled with voices shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Luke 19:38).

Palm branches waved. Hope filled the air. The people thought their King had come to take over.

This was no polished parade. It was a “ragtag” procession of ordinary people who had seen the extraordinary -- blind eyes opened, lame legs walking, lives forever changed. And they followed Him because they knew -- this is the One.

But Jesus knew something they didn’t.
The cheers would soon turn to silence.
The palms would give way to a cross.
The celebration would lead to sacrifice.

And still -- He came.
He came for the broken.
He came for the overlooked.
He came for the weary and the wondering.
He came for you and me.

This week, we choose to walk with Him -- from the praise of Palm Sunday to the pain of the cross -- and oh, best news ever -- to the victory of the empty tomb.

Because this isn’t just His story.
It’s ours.
We are His “Salvation Army” -- lifting His name, carrying His love, and sharing His hope with a world that needs Him so much.

So let's wave our palm branches, symbolically or actually waving palm branches to declare.....

Our King has come -- right into our hearts!
Oh what a Savior! Oh hallelujah!
Hosanna to our King of Kings and Lord of Lords!

Keep Your Eyes on the Ball

I heard the cutest dad story.
A father wanted to help his 7-year-old son with baseball. He’d taken him to practice, thrown pitches, done all the right things --but he admitted, “I don’t really know what to tell him!”

So he asked a friend. The answer?
“He’s seven. Just tell him one thing -- WATCH THE BALL!”
That’s it.

Apparently, that one simple instruction works for just about every sport when you’re seven.

Now, I wish I could say I mastered that concept myself.

Years ago, my sister-in-law and I took golf lessons. We swung with confidence -- and missed the ball completely. Or we’d hit it and it would roll about three feet. The instructor kept saying, “Keep your eyes on the ball!”

We tried. We really did.
But between laughing and talking, we decided golf might not be our calling. I think our instructor agreed with us! Sigh!

Then I saw a little T-ball player take that advice very literally. When the coach said, “Keep your eye on the ball,” the little guy leaned down and put his eye right on it! Precious.

And honestly -- not too far off from how we sometimes respond to life.

We hear what we’re supposed to do, but distractions pull us in every direction -- worries, frustrations, responsibilities, all competing for our attention.

And I can just picture our Heavenly Father gently taking our face in His hands and saying,
“Look at Me.
Focus on Me.
Keep your eyes on Me.”

Hebrews 12:2 reminds us:
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.”

Because when our focus drifts, our peace drifts right along with it.
But when we keep our eyes on Him?
Everything changes.
The noise quiets.
The worries soften.
And our steps steady.

So today, let’s keep it simple. Just like a 7-year-old learning the game -- keeping our eyes on the most important thing -- actually, the most important One -- that's Jesus.

Words That Matter Most

 

Good gracious -- I can’t stay quiet about this. Our words were never meant to wound, divide, or tear down. Yet that’s exactly what we’re surrounded by.

Everywhere we turn, there’s a barrage of harsh, careless, even cruel words -- words that stir fear, fuel division, and drain life right out of us.

While I am on the elliptical machine, I usually play sweet Christian worship songs on my iPhone. How uplifting it is!

And I can also grab a quick update on today's news. But yikes! Within seconds -- negativity, noise, and more noise.

Click. Off it goes!
I thought, “Well, that’s not how I’m starting my day.”
Because words matter.

They’re everywhere -- spoken, heard, posted, broadcast. Words fill our homes, our cars, our conversations, and yes -- our hearts.

And here’s the truth -- words have power.
They can lift a weary soul -- or weigh it down.
They can brighten a room -- or darken it in seconds.

God showed us just how powerful words are from the very beginning -- “Let there be light.” And there was light. Genesis 1:3

He created the world with words. And since we are made in His image -- we create with ours.

“The tongue has the power of life and death.” Proverbs 18:21

That’s quite a responsibility, isn’t it?
But oh, what an opportunity. Think about the words that bring life:
“I love you.”
“I’m proud of you.”
“You matter.”
“I forgive you.”
“This place is better because you’re here.”

Those words don’t cost a thing --
but they’re priceless to the one receiving them.

Jesus understood this so well.
With words, He calmed storms.
With words, He healed the sick.
With words, He multiplied loaves and fishes.
And with words, He called you and me into being.

So today, before the world gets too loud, let’s choose our words carefully.

Let’s be the ones who speak hope when others speak fear.
Peace when others speak chaos.
Kindness when others forget.

Because every word we speak plants something.
I don’t know about you -- but I want my words to grow life.

Our words carry more power than we think. 💛
Speak life. Speak hope. Speak words that matter most.

No Matter What — Praise Him Anyway

A.W. Tozer, often called a 20th-century prophet for his calls to a deeper spiritual life, emphasized intimacy with God. He once said, “If God takes away everything I have, I will love Him anyway.”

Now that’s a bold kind of faith. But let’s be honest -- it’s not always easy.

There are days when prayers feel unanswered, plans fall apart, and life doesn’t look anything like we imagined. In those moments, praise can feel like the last thing on our list.

Yet, it’s the very thing that lifts us. Praise isn’t just thanking God for what He’s done. It’s trusting Him for who He is.

And He is always good. But there are times when we complain and our spirits feel overwhelmed. And, the more we grumble, the heavier life feels. (I’ve tested that theory a time or two myself!

But something shifts when we choose praise.
Praise lightens the load.
Praise lifts our eyes.
Praise reminds our hearts that God is still in control.

I think about the ten lepers Jesus healed. Only one came back to say thank you. Only one.

And Jesus told him, “Your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:19)

There’s a difference between being healed… and being whole.
And praise has a way of making us whole.

God isn’t just interested in granting our wishes -- He’s interested in drawing us close. His desire is relationship, not just results.

And here’s a truth the enemy hopes we never fully believe:
We are worthy of God’s love.
Not because we’ve earned it -- but because He freely gives it.

So when doubt and unbelief show up at our door -- let's not let that garbage talk -- talk us out of our blessings.

Instead -- let's ask boldly.
Let's trust fully.
And praise Him -- before, during, and after the answer.

Because when we choose praise -- no matter what -- we don’t just get through life -- we rise above it!

Sent with Confidence

 

Have you ever stopped to think that we are God's ambassadors?
Not someday. Not when we feel ready. Not when we’ve memorized enough Scripture or feel “qualified.” Right now!

“Therefore, we are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

That’s not a small assignment. But it’s also not a stressful one.

Sometimes we hesitate to share our faith because we think we need the perfect word or a polished presentation or the ability to “close the deal.”

Oh my -- that sounds exhausting!

The good news? God never asked us to be His salespeople.
He simply asks us to be witnesses.
And we don’t need megaphones or loud amplifiers to do that.

Most of the time, it looks like something much simpler -- and much more powerful -- just telling our story. Sharing how God has met us, changed us, carried us, and loved us through it all.

Letting others see the difference He’s made in our lives -- and gently saying, “I want that for you, too.”
Because here’s something beautiful -- people are already searching.

They may not say it out loud, but deep inside, they’re longing for peace, purpose, forgiveness, and hope. The very things Jesus offers so freely.

And many don’t even know what they believe. They try to make sense of life, but often feel confused, uncertain, even a little restless. But God is not a God of confusion.

“He is a God of peace.” 1 Corinthians 14:33

When we share Jesus, we’re not adding pressure -- we’re offering clarity.
We’re not arguing -- we’re inviting.
We’re not forcing -- we’re simply pointing.

And the truth? It speaks for itself.

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

So take a deep breath, my dear friends.
You don’t have to have all the answers.
You just have to be willing.

God has you in the palm of His mighty hands.
He will give you the words, the courage, and the opportunities.

All He asks is this:
Be available.
Be faithful.
Be confident in His love.
Because when you walk into a room -- you never walk in alone!

You are THE ONE sent and He is with you ALWAYS!

Patriotism at Its Finest

Some people hang a flag. Others -- raise a legacy.

On Saturday morning, March 21, something truly special unfolded at the home of our dear friend, Lucille Casner. This wasn’t just a flagpole dedication. This was a declaration -- of faith, freedom, and deep gratitude.

Now entering her 92nd year, Lucille Casner is still full of life, love and American spirit. The beloved founder of Casner Christian Academy held a flag-raising ceremony in her front yard to celebrate her birthday. She was surrounded by family, friends, my Carl, former Casner students and many veterans.

Lucille’s flag didn’t simply hang from the pole in her front yard, No, hers stood tall -- anchored firmly in the ground and stretching high above, as if reaching toward heaven itself.

Surrounding her driveway were smaller flags, each one whispering, “We remember. We honor. We are grateful.” And oh, how fitting that it all began with God.

Then came the moment -- the raising of the flag -- led by her children and grandchildren. Generations standing together, lifting high the symbol of our freedom.

John Harrison’s powerful voice rang out with “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and if there was ever a time to stand a little taller, that was it. They pledged allegiance -- not just out of habit, but from the heart. John sang Texas, Our Texas (because, well… we are in Texas 😊), and honored even more with the P.O.W. flag raising, with Ken Wallingford who was a Vietnam P.O.W.

With a closing benediction by Pastor Bill McGinnis and a warm reception to follow, it was more than an event. It was a moment.

Now here’s what makes Lucille shine even brighter.

She has not lost a husband or child in combat, though they did serve in combat. Her patriotism isn’t born from personal loss -- but from profound gratitude. A love for country. A respect for those who served. A recognition that freedom is never free.

Scripture reminds us:
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” —Psalm 33:12

Lucille lives that truth. With honor. With dignity. With unwavering pride.

And here in Texas, we have a saying -- “Don’t Mess With Texas.”
Well, I’d say… don’t mess with Lucille either.

Because when it comes to loving her God, her country, and those who serve…she stands tall -- just like the flag! 🇺🇸

It sure inspired me seeing Lucille's love of her Country and appreciation for those who paid a hefty price for our freedoms. Her Star Spangled flag and her Texas flag will wave proudly.

Doesn't that make you and me want to step up our patriotism and love for our Country, too?

Where's God?

Remember those “Where’s Waldo?” books?

I still enjoy looking for Waldo -- even now. There he is somewhere in the middle of a crowded page, wearing his red-and-white stripes, quietly hiding in plain sight. We scan, we squint, we lean in just a little closer -- and then -- aha! We find him!

The creator promised he was always there. We just had to look.

Now, finding God isn’t exactly like finding Waldo -- but sometimes it can feel that way.

Life gets busy. Loud. Full. Our days fill up with appointments, errands, responsibilities -- and before we know it, we find ourselves asking, “Where’s God?”

The beautiful truth is this: He isn’t hiding. Through the prophet Jeremiah, God made a promise that still whispers to us today:
“You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13

God isn’t lost in the crowd. He’s present in it.
He’s in the quiet nudge to pray.

The peace that settles our heart when everything else feels unsettled.
The kindness of a friend.
The beauty of a sunrise that stops us in our tracks.

We don’t have to search page after page to find Him.
But we do have to slow down.

Oh, how easy it is to get distracted. I’ve had moments where I’m so busy doing life that I forget to savor the One who gave me life.

And yet, God is so patient. He doesn’t throw up His hands and say, “Well, she missed Me again today.”

No -- He gently waits.
He draws us back.
He reminds us that He’s been there all along.

So maybe today, instead of asking, “Where’s God?”
Let's pause.
Let's breathe.
We look again -- with a heart that’s open and expectant.

And just like Waldo…we’ll discover He was never far away.

Famous First and Last Words

We’ve all heard the phrase “famous last words.”

Sometimes they’re funny. Sometimes they’re serious. Sometimes they’re the words we wish we could take back.

But lately I’ve been thinking -- what about our famous first AND last words?

When Jesus began His ministry, His FIRST words were simple and life-changing to those diverse group of men:
“Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19

And when He left this earth, His famous LAST words and message was just as clear:
“Go and make disciples of all nations.” Matthew 28:19

First words. Last words. And both were about people.
About reaching them. Loving them. Pointing them to hope.

Which makes me pause and ask myself:
"What do my words sound like when I enter or leave a room?"

Are they life-giving? Loving? Encouraging? Hope-filled?

The truth is, we don’t need a stage or a microphone to make an impact. Most of our “audience” is right in front of us -- family, friends, neighbors, even the person standing behind us in line at the grocery store.

And sometimes, all it takes is a simple sentence:
“I’m so glad to see you.”
“You’re doing better than you think.”
“God hasn’t forgotten you.”
"Oh the plans God has for you."
"What can I pray with you about?"

Those words may not seem like much -- but they carry eternity.

Because when we speak hope, we’re doing exactly what Jesus asked us to do -- we’re gently “fishing,” not with pressure, but with love.

So maybe today, we don’t worry about having the perfect speech.
Maybe we just choose our first words carefully.

Words that reflect our Lord's heart.
Words that lift someone up.
Words that leave a little trail of grace wherever we go.

Because one day, when all is said and done....
It may not be our last words that matter most.

It might be the first words we chose to speak -- again and again -- that pointed someone to Jesus.

Back to Life

Carl came to me holding his iPhone like it had just betrayed him.
“It's frozen,” he said.

Well now -- if there’s one thing I’m confident in, it’s at least trying to fix things. So I tapped, swiped, pressed, and even gave it that “this should work” look.

Nothing. Nada. That phone wasn’t budging.

Then I remembered AI -- followed a few simple steps -- and just like that -- the screen went black and the Apple logo appeared.

And suddenly everything came back to life. Whew!
Isn’t it funny how a little device can mirror our own lives?

There are days when we feel just like that phone -- frozen. Stuck. Worn out. Unresponsive. We try to push through, tap a few buttons, keep going -- but nothing seems to work.

And then comes the gentle reminder:
Maybe we don’t need more effort.
Maybe we just need a reset.

Sometimes it looks like:
-- a quiet moment with the Lord
-- a deep breath and a whispered prayer
-- a little rest -- maybe even a good nap
And slowly -- something shifts.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He MAKES ME lie down in green pastures,
He leads me beside still waters,
He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:1–3

Did you catch that? He restores.
Not by pushing us harder -- but by leading us to rest.

Even Jesus stepped away from the crowds to pray and be refreshed. If He needed that time, how much more do we?

Are you feeling a little frozen today?
God specializes in restoring weary hearts.
Sometimes all we need is a reset -- pause, pray, rest,
and trust that God knows exactly how to bring us back to life again!

Don't forget -- He often MAKES us lie down in green pastures!
And, oh, how sweet it is in those green pastures!

Our Olive Tree Journey

On Monday, a sweet gift showed up at our door.
That gift was my daughter, Staci, and bonus son, Larry.

Between warm conversations and a delightful dinner at a beautiful new Japanese restaurant, our hearts and tummies were full.

But this visit had purpose woven all through it -- time together, a walk through the Bullock Texas State History Museum (so amazing!), and an intentional drive to Dripping Springs. "What's in Dripping Springs/" -- you may ask!

Let's find out! Staci has been finishing her new book on healthy and whole living. Along the way, she found herself drawn -- almost unexplainably -- to the olive tree. Its beauty. Its meaning. Its quiet strength.

So she looked up where olive trees grow best.
The Mediterranean topped the list.
And right beneath it -- unknowingly, was Dripping Springs, Texas.

What a great surprise -- right here in our backyard -- so to speak!

So off we went, winding through those breathtaking Hill Country roads, the landscape stretching wide and welcoming. And there it was -- The Texas Hill Country Olive Company -- right near home.

We were enamored with the delicate aromas which enticed us to enjoy the food in the bistro -- a cafe with farm-to-table dishes, salads, flatbreads and sandwiches.

We had a delicious lunch, infused with olive oils and balsamic vinegars, followed by a guided tasting and tour. But what stayed with me most wasn’t just the flavor…

It was the meaning that proved Staci's new book is right in when it comes to health and healing.

From the very beginning, the olive tree has symbolized peace and new beginnings. After the flood, a dove returned to Noah with an olive leaf—a quiet whisper that life had begun again. (Genesis 8:11)

The olive tree grows slowly, but it grows strong. Scripture compares it to a righteous life -- rooted, flourishing, and fruitful. (Psalm 52:8)

And then there’s the oil.

Used to anoint kings and priests, olive oil represents the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. A gentle reminder that God’s strength doesn’t come from our striving, but from His Spirit working within us.

Even the pressing has meaning.

In Gethsemane -- “the olive press” -- Jesus was pressed, surrendered, and obedient....so His life could be poured out for us. Oh, what love. Oh, what a Savior. Oh, hallelujah!

What began as a simple drive became a quiet reminder: God plants meaning in our lives long before we recognize it.

And sometimes, the sweetest blessings are found closer than we ever imagined -- shared with family, discovered in His creation, and tasted in the goodness of the Lord.

God plants beauty, purpose, and peace in places we least expect sometimes right in our own backyard.

The Great Rectifier

I had one of those eye-opening moments that made me stop and ponder the lesson I learned.

I realized how easily my emotions can get tangled up. One minute I'm calm and collected, and the next minute my feelings are marching in like they own the place.

And if I’m being honest, sometimes I really want things to go my way. But here’s the question I’ve been asking myself lately. "Do I really need it to be my way -- or can I trust God to have His way?

That little question has been surprisingly helpful.

Because the truth is, God is the great Rectifier. He sees what I can’t see and knows how to work things out far better than I ever could.

When I get upset or frustrated, I’ve started asking myself a few honest questions:
Are these feelings helping me -- or hurting me?
Are they making my light shine brighter -- or dimmer?

Sometimes those feelings seem perfectly natural. But natural doesn’t always mean helpful.

There have been moments when I’ve thought I was being taken advantage of. Maybe you’ve felt that way too. But when I pause long enough to think about it, I realize something important.

Being right doesn’t always make things right.
And reacting with frustration usually just makes us defensive.

Managing my emotions is what I call a “big-girl discipline.” It’s choosing to respond in a way that reflects the heart of Christ -- even when my feelings want to take the wheel.

The Apostle Peter said it beautifully:
“From now on, you must live the rest of your earthly lives controlled by God’s will and not by human desires.” 1 Peter 4:2
(Ouch! And, oh me!)

And if Jesus Himself could pray: “Father -- not my will, but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42 -- then surely I can learn to do the same.

When we defer to God’s will, something wonderful happens. Our peace returns, our witness shines brighter, and our Heavenly Father smiles.

And that, my friends, is a victory for Him -- and a blessing for us!
So, please, Lord, give us your heart that's filled with love and make us more like you!

Keep Climbing!

Once upon a time my knees decided they needed a little….. encouragement.

So I started wearing knee braces. At first they were stiff, then slippery, then downright uncooperative. But eventually I found a pair that works beautifully when I’m walking, working out, or gliding along on the elliptical.

What a relief!

Last year Carl and I traveled to Cabo San Lucas, one of my favorite places on earth. High above the coastline sits a beautiful mountain with a lighthouse and a tiny chapel at the top. I’ve climbed it before with my grandson, and the view from the top is breathtaking.

Naturally, I was determined Carl and I would climb it together.

So I visited my orthopedic doctor who kindly offered steroid shots so my knees would cooperate. The shots were supposed to last three months.

That was a year ago. Thank You, Lord!

And yes -- this smart cookie still wears her knee braces.
But here’s the funny part.
We never climbed the mountain.

Turns out the area is now exclusive to another resort. No visitors allowed. The mountain that had been on my mind for months was suddenly off-limits.

Life can be like that sometimes. We make plans, lace up our hiking boots, and then the path we expected disappears.
Which makes me think about another mountain.

When Jesus took Peter, James, and John up the mountain, they witnessed something extraordinary. His glory shone before them in what we now call the Transfiguration.

It was a breathtaking mountaintop moment.
But they couldn’t stay there.

Mountaintops are wonderful places for revelation, but valleys are where life is lived. After the glory of the mountain, the disciples had to walk back down and continue the everyday work of following Jesus.

And so do we.

Some days feel like standing on a sunlit summit with the wind in our hair and joy in our heart.

Other days feel like the long trail down.
But here’s the good news: Jesus walks both places with us.

So whether we're climbing, resting, or wondering why the trail suddenly closed…let's keep moving onward and forward!

The view with Jesus is always a sweet spot -- whether it's walking, talking, climbing or living on the mountain top OR the valley -- He is always with us!

It’s More Than Green

Every year -- March 17th -- the world turns green. There are parades, shamrocks, and cheerful greetings of “Happy St. Patrick’s Day.”

But behind the festivities stands a godly man whose life was far more powerful than a parade.

Saint Patrick was not born in Ireland. As a teenager, he was kidnapped from his home in Britain and taken to Ireland as a slave.

For six long years he worked as a shepherd, alone on the hillsides.
And it was there -- in the quiet fields -- that something remarkable happened.

Patrick found God.

He began to pray constantly. The young captive who once knew little about faith suddenly discovered a deep dependence on the Lord. In time, Patrick escaped and returned home.

But God wasn’t finished with him yet.

Years later, Patrick did something that still amazes historians. He went back to the very land where he had once been enslaved.

Not with bitterness.
Not with revenge.
He returned with the love of Christ.

Patrick spent the rest of his life telling the people of Ireland about Jesus. Tradition says he used a simple shamrock to explain the Trinity -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thousands came to faith because one man chose obedience over comfort.

That’s the real story of St. Patrick’s Day. Not luck. Not leprechauns. But surrender.

Patrick’s life quietly asks us these question:
What would happen if we lived our faith out loud?
What if we forgave those who hurt us?
What if we loved people who were different from us?
What if we stepped into uncomfortable places to usher in Christ?

2 Corinthians 5:20 says “We are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.”

Ambassadors don’t hide their allegiance. They represent their King. May we represent our King – our Savior and Lord!

So, go ahead and wear your green if you’d like. Enjoy the celebration. Smile at the parades. But remember the shepherd boy who became a servant of God.

And perhaps the best way to celebrate St. Patrick is his Breastplate Prayer that we hold to -- Christ before us, behind us, above us and within us.

Christ before me — guiding the path
Christ behind me — covering what I’ve left behind
Christ above me — reigning in authority
Christ within me — living through me every day

#saintpatricksday #breastplate #AmbassadorsForChrist

Shhh! It’s a Secret!

I’ll confess something right up front.
I’m not very good at keeping secrets.

Oh, I try. But give me a delightful surprise -- like a party, a gift, or some exciting news -- and it practically bubbles right out of me. I’ve been known to accidentally spill the beans about a surprise party before the candles were even lit.

And if I’m being really honest, I may have been the kid who quietly opened my Christmas presents early -- then carefully rewrapped them so my mom wouldn’t know.

So when I read the story about the people Jesus healed who couldn’t keep quiet, I completely understand.

After Jesus healed a deaf man, the Bible says:
“He ordered them not to tell anyone. But the more He ordered them not to, the more they proclaimed it.” (Mark 7:36)

I suspect I would have been right there with them.

Sometimes Jesus asked people to stay quiet because crowds could misunderstand His mission. If word spread too quickly, people might chase the miracles instead of the message.

And yet, when the leper Jesus healed told everyone what had happened, the crowds became so large that Jesus “could no longer enter a town openly.” (Mark 1:45)

Even so, Jesus moved quietly and faithfully toward the greater miracle still to come. He knew the real moment for the news to break would arrive soon enough.

In less than two weeks, we’ll enter Holy Week -- the story of the cross, the empty tomb, and the greatest victory the world has ever known.

And here’s the wonderful part -- the secret is out.

Because of the resurrection, we are no longer asked to keep quiet. We are witnesses to the finished work of God’s salvation.

So if you’re like me -- an awkward secret-keeper -- this is one secret we're allowed to share.

In fact, we’re encouraged to shout it from the rooftops.
Or in my case… maybe from social media.

JESUS HEALS!!
JESUS SAVES!!
JESUS LIVES!!

It's simply too good to keep to ourselves!

Oh, dear Lord, bless those around the world who must still whisper Your name in secret. Give them courage, protection, and hope.

As for me…I’m grateful this is one secret I can tell!

#secret #secretkeeper #HeLives #SecretIsOut

Along with the Sunshine -- Comes a Little Rain

I heard it said that "Bad things happen -- how I respond to them defines my character and the quality of my life.” Amen to that!

Some days feel like heaven is pouring out blessings. The weather is perfect, the phone rings with good news, and every traffic light seems to turn green just as we arrive. It makes me want to shout: "Dear Lord, please give us more days like this!'

Then there are the other days when clouds roll in. Plans fall apart. Storms arrive without an invitation.

And, some days we get both -- sunshine AND showers.

Years ago, country singer Lynn Anderson made the song "Rose Garden" famous with these words: “I beg your pardon -- I never promised you a rose garden. Along with the sunshine, there’s got to be a little rain sometimes.”

And -- iIsn’t that the truth?

When we read the writings of Paul the Apostle, we discover he understood a few rainstorms himself. Shipwrecks, prison cells, hardships -- yet he spoke often about peace. Real peace.

The kind that doesn’t disappear when the sky grows dark.

Paul even said something surprising in Romans 5:3-5:

“We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”

Paul wasn’t suggesting we throw a parade when trouble knocks on our door. What he meant was this -- the rain in our lives isn’t wasted. God uses it.

A little rain strengthens our roots. It deepens our faith. It grows a hope that sunshine alone could never produce.

And here’s the best part. When the clouds gather, we are never standing in the storm alone.

God promised He would never leave us or forsake us. His love is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, giving us patience, endurance, and a hope that will never disappoint.

So when life feels stormy, remember this -- the rain doesn’t last forever.

Soon -- the clouds part, the sun peeks through, and before long we may find ourselves humming another old song......

“I’m walking on sunshine… and don’t it feel good!”