I spent the day with my middle daughter. The one who’s been climbing her whole life to find her worth. At the tender age of 5 her arms wrapped around my middle sitting in the pew while the teacher up front taught us we were sinners. We learned that God was a mountain and we... Continue Reading →
I’m so excited. I got a new Bible. It feels like the latest book from your favorite author. The one you’ve been waiting months to read. I’m giddy over new books. Getting an author’s new release of tragedy to triumph in my hands, I don’t want to let go. I resist opening them. I want... Continue Reading →
He couldn’t wait to take me there. “I have something to show you when you have a minute.” In our marriage that once meant, I know you’re gonna love what I love. Today it means, I know you. “I found a picture you are going to want to take.” He says, standing at door wide... Continue Reading →
My Mama is not to be trifled with. She and Dad left suburban life broke, but determined to give their kids what they never had. Owning land, breeding animals, and growing fields in wide open spaces was the backdrop for a family that sticks together. Before my sister and I arrived Mama birthed two boys, breech.... Continue Reading →
We had to do something. Filling two grocery carts, we carried 25 bags of mercy door to door on the poorest side of town. Bought styrofoam container of mud and worms for the young robin abandoned in the gutter—because we couldn’t watch one more senseless death. Still breathing here. Holding on and handing out because... Continue Reading →
Have you ever given a gift that was blatantly unappreciated? I found one of those pivotal bible verses calligraphed onto a plaque I thought perfect for a friend. She struggles with depression. LOVE NEVER FAILS, hanging on her wall might be exactly what she needs to coax her into a brighter future. Maybe if she loved... Continue Reading →
"Knit together in love." Col 2:2 The long arm holds the unsecured to prevent unraveling while with great dexterity the hand gently loops new through the active --- catching the fresh and drawing it through. This secures the whole and forms new in its place. I thought we could just sew people together. You... Continue Reading →
In my search toward a deeper knowing of God, I asked my Husband why he loves his kids. His answer, “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” “God, who made the world and everything in it...” This verse poured over the grounds of my mind and filled my cup with comprehension. The richness of... Continue Reading →
I eat, and it does not satisfy...Yet, I want for more.I sleep, and I wake,while rest waits at my door.I wash and dress,longing for change...Though my garments are fresh,they're just more of the same.How do You whisper, without a sound?Make plenty,without being found?How do You embrace, without touch...sooth, comfort,and cover up?The body brings pain,the Spirit echoes life.You,... Continue Reading →
JoAnn Downs Alo 