Can Music Be Good for Your Body, Soul, and Spirit?

What does music do? It can reduce stress by reducing the production of cortisol and increasing the release of stress-reducing neurotransmitters. It can also reduce stress by reducing a patient's sense of isolation and helping them reconnect with positive places within themselves.  It can help healthy circulation by reducing blood pressure and stabilizing the heart … Continue reading Can Music Be Good for Your Body, Soul, and Spirit?

Ashes, Anguish, and a Pathway to Healing – Psalm 31:1-13

Lent begins this year on Wednesday, February 22nd. On that day, churches worldwide will host Ash Wednesday services. Ministers will mark the foreheads of the faithful and say, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:19 ESV During the forty days of Lent, believers can set aside time to lament … Continue reading Ashes, Anguish, and a Pathway to Healing – Psalm 31:1-13

How Can I Find Peace in the Second Week of Advent? Psalm 85

In December of 1995, my family experienced a Christmas like no other. My youngest daughter, not even a year yet, had a spiral fracture of her femur. The path to healing required a rigid cast that extended down from her chest to her toes. Diaper changes, eating, sleeping, and surviving were incredibly difficult for us. … Continue reading How Can I Find Peace in the Second Week of Advent? Psalm 85

Holding onto Hope in Advent – Psalm 80

It is dark at my house this morning. The electricity went out at some point during the night, leaving my entire neighborhood shrouded in blackness. I wander about the house, gathering candles, a lighter, and my trusty book light. Without light, my home becomes a frustrating obstacle course featuring various objects ready to bruise my … Continue reading Holding onto Hope in Advent – Psalm 80

Are You Bargaining with God in the Waiting Room? Psalm 26

Hospital waiting rooms are a great equalizer. All who enter join the fellowship of uncertainty. Plans and predictions, once held tightly, slowly tick away with the pace of watched clocks. I have logged many hours in these places over the years. Often arriving flustered and departing relieved, but now I am back again in crisis. … Continue reading Are You Bargaining with God in the Waiting Room? Psalm 26

How Can I Avoid Suffering and Other Lies I Have Chosen to Believe – Psalm 34:15-22

If I am being honest, I love a good checklist. A clear path lined out for me, revealing what was right to do and what to avoid. I want to know deep in my soul that if I get the boxes checked off in proper order and complete all items before the deadline, all will … Continue reading How Can I Avoid Suffering and Other Lies I Have Chosen to Believe – Psalm 34:15-22