Good morning... As powerful pastels streaked the morning sky, I received an important email last Monday. Cathy, a loving grandmother in our Wednesday class, sent me a video created for the Rally Foundation, a short video chronicling little Eliza's cancer journey. Eliza is Cathy's oldest granddaughter, and Cathy's son and daughter-in-law tell the touching story of receiving their [...]
Good morning... As I walked with a young mom last week, we talked about the unique quality of friendships in the Atlanta area. So many amazing women come and go throughout the seasons of our lives. Without the regular overlaps which happen naturally in small town living, we need to be intentional about connecting with the important ladies [...]
Good morning... During this winter season that feels treacherous to so many, I happened upon a new music video. Jelly Roll and Lauren Daigle have paired up to produce Faithful Through The Ages. "A raw, soul-deep anthem about a God who never walked away — even when life broke us down," writes one listener. "Jelly Roll’s gravel-hearted honesty [...]
Good morning... This Winter/Spring semester began yesterday. She began with a BAM! I spoke in all three worship services, 8:30 am, 9:00 am, and 11:15 am, sharing the opportunities offered through our Women's Ministry at Northside Church. Before and after each service, I enjoyed talking with longtime friends and staff members. Here is the invitation I extended. ****** [...]
Good morning... After reading the quote by Rachel Held Evans shared in yesterday's blog post, as a class we decided to study Rachel's newest book next semester. It's entitled Wholehearted Faith. Up in the middle of the night now, I research a little bit about Rachel, an American Christian columnist, blogger and author. My google search reveals a [...]
Good morning... Our pastor read Proverbs 31:10-31, a section of scripture which bears the heading: The Wife of Noble Character. I heard a familiar voice behind me whisper, "Those words describe Marilyn perfectly." One particular verse lingers in my mind from yesterday's simple service honoring the extraordinary life of 92 year old Marilyn Davis. Strength and dignity are [...]
Good morning... I love this smiling photo of Marilyn. Relaxed in her skin. Always well dressed. Exuding the Spirit of God. Marilyn is one of the top ten most influential people in my own life of faith. Dear Marilyn Davis... We know that God not only loves you but has selected you for a special purpose. For we [...]
Good morning... Another loyal friend, a daily blog reader and longtime Northside Church member, wrote to me recently, sharing the photo above, offering a tribute to Audrey DeShetler who went to heaven in June. ****** Audrey's Race Is Won by Vilda Brennan About 10 years ago, I took a course called Soul Collage. I loved the concept of [...]
Good morning... Around 3:00 pm yesterday, from Jennifer DeShetler our small group of friends received a text. "Audrey just passed." Then privately she wrote me. "Who is the pastor on duty?" "I will ask," I replied. "Will get back to you." "Please asap." I connected her to Dr. Bill, our head pastor at Northside Church. Soon after, I [...]
Good morning... Last night, on the grounds of my parents' senior living community in Ohio, I went on a walk at dusk, around 7:30 pm. At 7:56 pm, I received this update from the DeShetler family. I gave my full focus to [...]
