Why We Wrote Grit to Stay Grace to Go

In November 2020, fellow Christar worker and my friend, Sue Eenigenburg, approached me about collaborating on a new book about grit. Here's why I joined her in writing "Grit to Stay Grace to Go: Staying Well in Cross-Cultural Ministry" and how you can help us spread the word.

My Birth Story Sixty Years Later

Some parents have a family tradition of telling their children their birth story every year on their birthday. God tells Jesus’ birth story to us in the Christmas narrative. Telling our stories defines us. My mother told my birth story quite often but since she is no longer with me to celebrate the occasion of this milestone birthday, I tell myself the story through her written words I recently discovered in her personal letters.

My Sixtieth Birthday Wish

I’m turning sixty in a few days and for my birthday I want sixty reviews (or as many as possible) for my book: “Favored Blessed Pierced: A Fresh Look at Mary of Nazareth.”

The Glimpse of the New Kingdom

My former pastor, Pete Briscoe, gives us a “little glimpse into what it might feel like when we get [to the new kingdom].” His description is so beautiful I must share it.

A Life With God

Since my word for 2023 is with, I enthusiastically dove into "With: Reimagining the way you relate to God" by Skye Jethani. The author’s thesis is, "Our true selves cannot be discovered by living under, over, from, or for God. It is something that will be revealed when we are fully with God."

The Difference between Envy and Jealousy

Do you know the difference between envy and jealousy? I did not until I heard a message from Jamin Roller at Citizens Church, Plano, Texas. I owe these thoughts to him.

Read a Book from Your Childhood

Read a book from your childhood. This self-care suggestion caught my eye because I’ve never seen this idea on any list before. So during my recent convalescence from Covid (yes, that dreaded virus finally caught up with me after three years), I reached for the “Barney Mysteries”—five books all starting with the letter R—by Enid Blyton.

Wise Words From My Mom

My mom was a keeper (pun intended). She kept documents, notes, calendars, prayer letters, cards—anything she thought important. On this thirteen anniversary of her graduation to glory, I share some of my mother’s wise words.