We Midwesterners love to fret about the Fall. “The maples don’t seem to be as vibrant as usual this year.” Or, “It’s awful warm for October, don’t you think?” Or “I’m worried that we’re going to skip fall and jump … Continue reading
The summer is the one time of year when I seem to have an American approach to cycling. Last week, Cor and I donned helmets, sunglasses, bright-colored jerseys, and spandex cycling shorts. We slathered ourselves with sunscreen and made sure … Continue reading
It’s that time of the year for retrospection. After posting my Top Ten Songs of 2020 and Top Ten Books of 2020, I’m following the pattern that I established in previous years, turning my attention to hikes that I’ve been privileged to enjoy … Continue reading
It was snowing an inch and hour. Especially a bit north of us, in the “Snow Belt.” But I didn’t want to stay inside. Our church’s Staff team had plans to observe a special day of prayer. And because I … Continue reading
I’ve noticed this fall that the trees of a forest change colors from the outside, inward. A month ago, there was still a lot of green mixed with bright yellow, dull yellow, and bright orange, with just a few accents … Continue reading
I love a good quest. I’m especially enamored with the idea of hiking “every step of every trail in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.” The reality of such an project, however, is complicated. I thought I completed the project back … Continue reading
A heavy bank of clouds obscured our view of the sunrise, but at least the rain stopped while we hiked. Even without direct visual evidence, the songbirds and increasing light reassured us that the sun had indeed risen. The Son … Continue reading
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. Isaiah 61:3 We decided to reflect on Isaiah 61:1-4 this week. Me and the other leaders and students of the H2O Off-Campus … Continue reading
What’s a Christian supposed to do with a passage of Scripture like 1 Peter 4:12-13? I mean, I believe it’s the inspired Word of God and everything. But it just doesn’t feel very realistic. Dear friends, don’t be surprised at … Continue reading
I love my Friday mornings in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Even (or perhaps especially) in the dead of winter. Friday mornings are my time “walking with God” through the woods. It brings me joy and peace, no matter what … Continue reading