Let us let go of the labels
In Luke's Gospel, there is a story about a "bent woman." We don't know her name. Just the label that has been given to her. A label she has carried for 18 years. Those around her put her in a…
The gift of a soft heart
I have a soft heart. And too often, I’m afraid to say so.I have been sitting at my computer for some time, waiting for a Sabbath Moment topic. But in my mind and spirit are two searing images, and the…
Let me sow Love
When violent shocks become a routine feature of daily life—intensified online in an already polarized, anxious and overstimulated society—I can feel powerless, and so, try to protect myself. I am so tempted to close my eyes, to shut down, and…
Graciousness is real
“Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe…
I choose compassion
In our world today—the news, the distractions, and the disasters—can feel like “bombs” that overwhelm our spirit, and our energy. For many, a sadness permeates. It is no surprise many feel exhausted, or smothered, or speechless, or disorientated. Or lost.And…
Look for the helpers
An invigorated group of retreatants gathered at the Mary and Joseph Retreat Center. And I am very grateful to have absorbed a weekend’s worth of nourishing energy. Our topic? “What your heart would Love to say: lessons I learned on…
Human world of helping
Always try to leave people better than you found them.Hug the hurt. Kiss the broken. Befriend the lost. Love the lonely.I want to live in that kind of world.But this is my confession: some days (well, too many days), I…
Compassion is never small
It was one of those very large family reunions, where you likely don't recognize half the people, and spend a good deal of your time trying to avoid the pugnacious uncle whose name you've tried to forget. In the midst…
Yes, to compassion
My heart really hurts today. Just the thought of parents searching for missing children amid mangled trees, overturned cars, and muck-filled debris.A devastated central Texas landscape from the terror and torrent of a flood. And the loss of lives—including too…