What is the meaning of life? Why are we here? When we ask these questions, it may feel like there is no adequate answer. When we are in the midst of loneliness, fear, or suffering it is hard to find that meaning. Fortunately, we aren’t alone. Even in the Bible, the book of Ecclesiastes poses this question, wrestles with it, and finds that all of life’s efforts don’t really have much meaning if our lives in this world are all that matter. In the Gospel of Luke (12:13-21), howe

In this Marie Kondo world, we’ve learned to search for our joy. Today I challenge you to look a little deeper. Don’t ask “What brings me joy?” Ask “What brings me joy that lasts?” What brings you joy? True joy. Fulfilling joy. Have you ever wondered? I’m sure you have, but have you discovered what it is? Saint Ignatius, before he was on the road to sainthood, was holed up for months healing from a war injury that would never heal enough for him to return to his beloved battle

God works in the most wonderful ways. It has been a week since I gave my Calm in the Storm retreat, and the graces that have come from it have been incredible. I have spoken with a mother whose daughter is struggling mightily with anxiety and found moments of insight and blessing even in the darkest depths of the struggle. As she told me, “This is not only meant to change my daughter, but it is meant to change me.” And it is changing them both in ways that are bringing about

This summer, my husband and I were enjoying our no-kids vacation, eating at a shared table in a restaurant in New York. We started talking occasionally to the couple next to us after eating their bread that was delivered to the table. (We thought it was like the chips and salsa in Texas – a warm-up for your order. I swear!) By the end, the man next to us was sharing with me about a difficult relationship in his life and a letter he was wanting to send to repair the rift. As h

This has been a such a crazy busy week for me. School has started, I have a lot on my plate, and more is being put on every day. Sometimes, I’m just not sure it’s all going to get done. Sound familiar? Since I know I’m not alone in this, I’ve created a devotional I want to share with you. It’s one of those things I added to my plate this week, but I needed it just as much as I imagine you do! "Five Devotions of Peace: Find Your Calm in the Storms of Life" will bring a calming

I love how we finish summer by taking a well-deserved break from working to celebrate Labor Day. As my children head back to school, and our routine becomes somewhat normal again, I feel like it’s more of a last hurrah, a final hold on summer that we have to release when Tuesday comes. For me, September always feels like a new start. Everyone moves up a grade, there is a new routine to figure out, new Bible studies to start, and hopefully some new and cooler weather to enjoy.