One essential soul-tending tool might be to practice lament. In the six weeks or so leading up to Easter, Christians worldwide participate in Lent. It’s a season for believers to take inventory of their spiritual lives. Perhaps a spring cleaning with some lament thrown in for good measure. Some choose to give something up as … Continue reading Lent and Lament – Psalm 31b
Lent
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
Can I Stand in Palm Sunday Promises? Psalm 116
(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? Psalm 116
Can Solitude and Silence Recalibrate My Heart? Psalm 62
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? Psalm 62
A Mark To Remember -Psalm 103
(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 -Psalm 103
Search Me, O God – Psalm 139
Some years the season of Lent can feel chaotic. In contrast, this season is designed to be a time of spiritual renewal and contemplation. Since life may throw me endless curve balls, disruptions, and changes, sometimes I need to push a pause button and take a moment to practice a spiritual discipline known as self-examen. … Continue reading Search Me, O God – Psalm 139
“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
For Mother’s Day last year, I asked for a lemon tree, and my family blessed me with two tiny Meyer Lemon trees. My husband helped me plant each one in a sunny location in our garden, and at once I fancied myself a lemon farmer. However, my trees were small, a little frail and the … Continue reading “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Anthea Kotlan 