No one likes roadblocks or delays. We prefer doing what we want and going where we wish. But sometimes we find roadblocks in our way, and frustration sets in. Or irritation, anger, resignation, sorrow. Disappointment can bring a whole spectrum of emotions. And we wish for a bulldozer to clear the way.
Continue reading “When the Way is Blocked”
Few of us have ever found ourselves marooned on a desert island with no compass. But many things in life can make us feel marooned. Like relocating to another country, for example, because it upends your entire world. Quite literally, if you have moved across the equator as well!
Continue reading “When you Feel Marooned (For Missionaries and Non)”
With his tiny feet resting on the snow’s surface, he pecked at the weeds growing inside the roof eaves. The only plants not covered in snow. I love birds, and felt pity for that brave little guy. I wondered how he could find enough to eat and keep warm.
Continue reading “A Lesson From the Birds”
Moriah, which means chosen by God, was where God had his temple built, for it was a place special and holy to him. It was also where he sent King David to offer sacrifices after his sin of taking a census (1 Chronicles 21). It seemed like such a small thing, counting the people, but David did it out of pride. Which made God so angry that he sent a plague upon the people.
Continue reading “Lessons on Surrender from Mount Moriah”
Autumn here in Italy is a special time of year, one of my favorites! In small towns, like ours, the scent of wood smoke floats in the crisp, clean air. Grapes ferment into fine wines. And olives, pressed into green gold, glisten in their bottles.
Continue reading “Giving Thanks for Providence”
“If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” That’s sort of what happened to me. Except the foundation wasn’t destroyed, it fell away. I fell down an entire flight of marble steps (10 of them) in May, without remembering how it happened. I guess my mind chose to block it out.
Continue reading “When Your Foundation Falls Away”
Signora Sheila 