For years I was told that church was a place of refuge. My pastor spoke of this mighty fortress of strength. My Sunday school teachers taught about this safe place of pasture. My parents talked about these people as if they were familiar relatives. And so I just assumed that church was a good place.… Continue reading Fireplace Church
Tag: christmas
Enlightened
Black. Nothing was made. The quiet world began in darkness. Absence overtook the nothing that was. Saturated deep shadow before any silhouette could be seen. A breath was held before the first inhale. Blank silence. But God was. He created a black water all around, before there was any form or boundary. Cold murky heavens… Continue reading Enlightened
Dreaming
I’m dreaming of a white Christmas… although in Southern California it doesn’t look like we will get any sort of snow again this year. However, I share with you this sugarplum vision of sparkling powder drifting softly from the sky. We welcome the aroma of sweetly puffing chimneys, even if my nose is only slightly… Continue reading Dreaming
Messy Christmas
Gold and silver drip from the Christmas Tree. Soft angelic music floats around the dimly lit room. A warm fire crackles in the background. Neatly wrapped packages sparkle with anticipation for Christmas Morning. Standing back and admiring this perfect Christmas moment, I quickly snap a picture. Luckily, I preserved that second of impending Christmas Joy.… Continue reading Messy Christmas
Guilt Gift
What do you want for Christmas? A new iPhone. How many times do you think Jolly Ol’ Mall Santa Claus hears that one this year? Wow, the pressures of Christmas presents, selfish expectations, and parenting issues tied up in this one little yearly tradition. Within earshot of course, mom’s eyes shift side to side and… Continue reading Guilt Gift