Our One True Constant

Our One True Constant by Rochelle Bauer Nineteen years old and ready to take on the world. I was invincible and had the world at my fingertips. I thought I knew all I needed to know to get through life. Oh, how naïve I was. There was so much to come—so much heartache, so manyContinue reading “Our One True Constant”

We Shall Endure

We Shall Endure by Gloria Hsu I don’t know how to deal with this pain so the pain deals with me. By overtaking my body in fits of sobbing that come from somewhere deeper than I can reach myself, a hidden place known only to the pain itself. Only pain itself can tolerate it orContinue reading “We Shall Endure”

New Rhythms

New Rhythms by Sonia Abraham Among the bare winter-worn trees, a flock of starlings lifts from their roosting spot. They loom across the sky like a thin black lace veil. They change directions, forming new shapes with every movement. The flock contracts into a heart, then stretches across the sky in a long, sinewy band,Continue reading “New Rhythms”

Shelter and Refuge

Shelter and Refuge by Vina Mogg Almost one century ago my home was built on a post and pier foundation above the sands of the sea. This tiny wooden cottage fitted together from pieces of tongue and groove ship lap has weathered many storms, winds, and rain. Like an ark suspended above the waters, itContinue reading “Shelter and Refuge”

The Ultimate Sacrifice

The Ultimate Sacrifice by Amy Remer It was a cool September morning.  Dew covered the tips of the grass.  The house was dark and quiet.  Such a calm moment as I opened my eyes.  My husband was still asleep, as were our four children.  I just wanted to stay in that moment forever and notContinue reading “The Ultimate Sacrifice”

Mountain Metaphor

Mountain Metaphor by Leslie McLeod Like the stoic evergreens that flanked the steeply ascending trail, our marriage had long survived—scarred but strengthened through seasons of drought, infestation, lashing storms. Love compelled me to climb.  He had invited, hoping to inspire my fitness and long life.  I had accepted, hoping to share in his passion forContinue reading “Mountain Metaphor”

When I Fail to be Faithful

When I Fail to be Faithful by Leslie Jones I watch the waves lap at the shoreline from my seat on the beach, the glistening Sea of Galilee spread before me. Kicking off my sandals, I lift my face skyward, relishing the warmth of the afternoon sun. My eyes close as a slight breeze rufflesContinue reading “When I Fail to be Faithful”

Infinity Within

Infinity Within by Sarah Freymuth Smoke rises into the night, plumes of flame in the barrel. Stars scattered across the sky; Milky Way bow tie stretched against the black. My friend Jordan and his pipe, sweet scent of tobacco. We scan the dark, silent water, which stretches on and on, shrouded in the back ofContinue reading “Infinity Within”

Hope Among Thwarted Plans

Hope Among Thwarted Plans by Rachel Britton My husband turned the key in the lock. “We’ll live here for ten years at least,” he said as we stepped over the threshold. I smiled. After twelve months of house hunting, we had signed papers on the perfect home. Blue wisteria flowers hung over the doorway, formingContinue reading “Hope Among Thwarted Plans”

Rain in the Desert

Rain in the Desert by ST Chapman I call them prayer walks. But are they really? I walk, I meditate, I plan, and I just appreciate. I imagine as I set out from my car that Jesus is walking with me. I invite him and of course, he graciously agrees to come along. And IContinue reading “Rain in the Desert”