(The view from a pit.) Pray the promise, not the problem. Carlos Whittaker 1 I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. 2 He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. Psalm 40:1-2 … Continue reading Have You Ever Fallen into a Pit?
(A cross shape on top of ashes) Photos, awards, a folded American flag, certificates, and various hats revealed a life well-lived in the service of others and God. This table of remembrance, set up near the chapel entrance, displayed things representing my friend’s father’s life. Attending a memorial service brings a stark reminder of what … Continue reading A Mark To Remember
Are you weary? Do you long to find soul sustaining rest? Maybe you need a session of soul tending in your day? Check out my blog post for some soul tending guidance. My name is Anthea Kotlan, and I have a passion to equip and empower women to build God's kingdom. Join me on this … Continue reading Welcome
(Toddler on the beach.) The tempo of her tiny feet steadily grew as we got closer and closer to the beach. Once she leaped off the wooden bridge, she collapsed onto her hands and knees and began to dig into the sand. The look on her face and her absolute joyful abandon cascaded over me. It … Continue reading Have You Been in Awe Lately?
“Our new Constitution is now established, everything seems to promise it will be durable; but, in this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.” Benjamin Franklin In March of 2020, even these two certainties became questionable. The traditional April 15 federal tax filing deadline was postponed until July 15. The Covid-19 death count was … Continue reading Where Do I Look for Certainty in Difficult Times?
(Women throwing glitter confetti in the air.) The uphill journey to Easter Sunday from the low country of Lent takes effort and persistence. The steep pathway circles around the mountain week after week. Just as my calves feel shaky and I don't think I can keep going, the view of Easter Sunday fills the frame. … Continue reading Is It Still Easter?
(An image of a communion cup, broken bread, and a palm leaf cross.) Imagine for a moment sitting at the table at the last supper. Jesus is surrounded by friends, eating fantastic food while celebrating Passover. Multiple conversations buzz around, and laughter bubbles up. The aroma of the food fills the upper room. Tension quietly … Continue reading A View from the Table at the Last Supper
(A hand holding up a palm frond.) Palm Sunday marks the first day of Holy Week for believers worldwide. Jesus began his journey to the cross with a triumphal parade through Jerusalem. As crowds joyfully mobbed Him, Jesus never lost focus on his priorities. Instead, he made provision for his disciples and invited them to participate with … Continue reading Can I Stand in Palm Sunday Promises?
Our arms were raised. Our voices united in song. Suddenly I felt a shift in the room as the Holy Spirit flooded the sanctuary with His presence. While I detected fresh power moving about, I found myself utterly focused and engaged in worshipping God. Nothing else mattered. No longer multi-tasking. I no longer considered the … Continue reading How Am I Hard-Wired To Worship?
A woman sitting alone on a bench. On the third Sunday of Lent (3/20/22), Anglican churches all over the world prayed this prayer. Heavenly Father, you made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you: Look with compassion upon the heartfelt desires of your servants, and purify our disordered … Continue reading Can Solitude and Silence Recalibrate My Heart?
(A plug is being plugged into a wall power outlet.) Sometimes when the power goes out at my house, I have a terrible habit of continuously trying to turn the lights on. Then, as I move about the house and get busy working on other things, I forget about the lack of electricity. I keep … Continue reading Are Your Prayers Plugged into the Power Source?
empty plate with fork and spoon crossed During the season of Lent, there can be many calls to use fasting as a spiritual discipline. no red meat on fridaysstay off social mediapick one thing you really love and give it up for the season In most Christian circles you will rarely hear fasting mentioned, and … Continue reading Should I Fear Fasting?
Anthea Kotlan 