I’ve just finished an amazing book that begs to be reviewed! Christie Purifoy’s “Placemaker” (Zondervan, 2019) offers readers shiny treasures of perspective on the concept of “home.” Her experiences and insights gleaned from her desire to “cultivate places of comfort, beauty, and peace” raise intriguing, often probing questions; the answers found in the unexpected–including grief, barren land, hollow trees, and ramshackle sheds. I don’t consider myself as much of a placemaker in the literal sense. I don’t garden much (okay, I don’t garden at all). Or shop tirelessly for that perfect piece of art for my wall. But what…
A Recent Read – The Rescue by Jim Cymbala
Jim Cymbala’s latest release, The Rescue, is a little book with a big heart. Packed into its 177 pages are the stories of seven individuals who in desperate circumstances find hope in the love of Christ. As the book’s title suggests, each person had come to the end of his- or herself in some way, and through the encouragement of a Christian believer, is rescued by hearing the gospel and embracing its truth. The book is a quick, easy read, and although a bit pricey for its size ($16.99 hardcover retail), would make a nice gift. The message is strongly evangelical…
October madness
So much is going on right now! It’s October – it’s fall – well, it’s supposed to be fall. But the weather (in the 90s all week) says it’s still summer. Put away the boots and slip on the shorts and flip flops. (Such a burden). AND … it’s hunting season which means dear hubby is gone doing his man thing with his buddies. Maybe this will be the year he brings back some meat! AND– oh my gosh! The DODGERS are in the World Series! Soon to start game 3 against the Houston Astros. I’m glued to the TV…
Off I go! (yes, to Russia again)
Trip number 18 to Samara is just a few days away. My suitcases have yet to be packed, but my itinerary is (packed) with opportunities to share and bless and learn. Several amazing and encouraging words have been spoken over me–so I’m bursting with anticipation. Something great is happening! Many continue to ask what I do in Russia–and that can best be answered by just two words: I water. For a longer explanation, click this link which will take you to a guest post I wrote five years ago for Holy in the Daily. This year I’ll be doing my…
Resurrection Day Reminiscing
Last year during Holy Week I was on the other side of the globe, fulfilling a dream of celebrating Easter in Russia. This year, my Holy Week was spent mostly at home, under the weather, quiet. Uneventful. Contemplative. A study in contrasts, to be sure. In Russia, I colored eggs the traditional way using onion skins for the dye. Then I made kulichi, a special decorated sweet bread, used to give to friends and relatives along with the words of congratulation: Kristos Voskrese! (Christ is Risen). At midnight, I went to the service at the Orthodox Church — where the…
