So We’re Not Heroes
Have you seen the new Netflix movie, KPop Demon Hunters? After hearing “Golden,” the hit song from the movie on TikTok, I finally watched it. It’s on par with Frozen, Moana, or Encanto as far as catchy tunes go! Don’t be surprised if you see lots of Mira’s, Rumi’s, and Zoey’s for Halloween this year. […]
The Gift of Dependence
I just got home from another ministry event. It was the Abide Conference, a one-day experience of learning what it means to abide in God’s love. This is an event my friend Cyndi Staudt and I have collaborated on for two years now. Each conference has been the definition of the “immeasurably more than all […]
Today I Said Thank You
Today I said, “thank you.” I wrote thank-you cards to the men and women who recently joined me on a mission trip in Costa Rica. Really, I should call them reflection cards. Because unlike a regular “thank you” card where I express gratitude for them coming, I shared reflections from their experience on the trip. […]
Today I Made Plans
Today I made plans. Usually I would specify, “I planned a trip” or “I made a meal plan.” Not today! Today’s plans were both general and specific, as I set up my calendar for the month. One of my favorite monthly routines is to set up my schedule. I also do a smaller version of […]
My Favorite Airlines of 2025
I love to fly! Probably about as much as I love to ride the train. In 2025 I’ve taken 21 flights so far and have 6 more scheduled before the end of the year. With this much time in the sky, I’ve figured out which airlines and airports are my favorites (and least favorites) for […]
The Secret of Abiding
What does it mean to abide? If you’ve read John 15, you’ve probably asked this question. Or maybe your translation says “remain” instead of “abide.” What does it mean to “remain” in God? If we look at this question from a theological standpoint, it honestly seems a bit silly–because God is always with us. You […]
Navigating Feelings
Few things in life are more confusing than feelings. Both our own and others’. Navigating feelings is a journey that truly doesn’t end. We learn to acknowledge and appreciate our own feelings, but not all at once. It can be hard to value your own joy when no one around you is ready to feel […]
Today I Went Snorkeling
Today I went snorkeling. Off the coast of Costa Rica, I jumped into the water to see what was below. This is the third time I’ve snorkeled. The two other experiences were magical. My first time was in Hawaii on a family vacation when I was a child. I vividly remember swimming in a lagoon […]
Today I Led Bible Study
Today I led Bible Study. I led a group of young adults through a study on 2 Corinthians 12:9, But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest […]
5 Ways Costa Rica Surprised Me
Before going to Costa Rica for the first time in 2023, I considered myself reasonably well-traveled. Growing up we took family vacations–mostly road trips as good Midwesterners do. As an adult I’ve spent time on 3 continents, 8 countries, and many of the 50 states. I’ve taken planes, trains, buses, ferry boats, and cruise ships. […]