In this Faith at Home series, I will be sharing some of the ways Jonathan and I have intentionally parented our kids (currently ages 7, 9, and 11) in a way that centers our Christian faith and faith-based values. My philosophy of pastoring and parenting is “That church would be an integral part of the... Continue Reading →
Joanna’s Story
It’s early in the morning. Still dark. The alarm goes off - she tiptoes around the house, gathering her things, so as to not wake the men and children. She pours a cup of coffee, leans against the counter, and closes her eyes, one last time as she prepares herself to face the day. ... Continue Reading →
Ash Wednesday at Home
In the early days of Christianity, small groups of people met in homes to read Scripture, pray, and celebrate the Lord’s Supper. We invite you to remember Ash Wednesday in your homes, either in personal reflection or with your family. Ash Wednesday is a time we reflect on our sinfulness and our need for connection with... Continue Reading →
(Not Such) A Strange Way to Save the World
A few days ago, just before Christmas, I was driving down the road listening to Christian Christmas music. I find Christian music to be hit-or-miss; some songs I love and others have theology that makes me twitch. On that day, one song in particular gave me pause: And Joseph said, "Why me, I'm just a... Continue Reading →
Advent for the Churchless, Week 4: Love
Last week I clicked on a link from Facebook about how "Love Actually" isn't really a Christmas movie, though it's now considered a classic. I skimmed through the beginning of the article, as it laid out its case that Christmas was the backdrop, but it was really more of a Valentine's movie. Then I realized... Continue Reading →
Advent for the Churchless, Week 3: Joy
I remember December 14, 2012 vividly. The kids had gone to their first movie in the movie theater earlier that fall and fell in love with all things Disney in one fell swoop. But, as princess movies go, I was happy with Brave. My little girl had spent all fall pretending to be an archer... Continue Reading →
Advent for the Churchless, Week 2: Peace
I didn't write about Peace last week. I intended to. I really did. We were in the midst of moving, so things were busy, yes. But that isn't the reason. The reason was that I was having a hard time placing Peace in the world around me. My little world is just fine, but the... Continue Reading →
Advent for the Churchless, Week 1: Hope
As my family moves the first week of December, we have found ourselves churchless for Advent. If you are in the same situation - whether it's because you've been hurt by the church, or because you are in transition, or if you just haven't found a good fit yet, you're welcome here. And if you do... Continue Reading →