Becoming More - The Quiet Miracle of Motherhood

 "She’s clothed with strength and dignity, laughing without fear of the future." ~ Proverbs 31:25

She didn’t notice the moment it began.

Not the first cry, not the first time little Isabella’s fingers wrapped around hers, not even the first sleepless night that blurred into morning. It started in the stillness between heartbeats, when Camilla’s world shifted and she became someone new, without realizing the old version of herself had stepped aside.

Before all of that, there had been fear. In the days before delivery, Camilla wondered what it would cost her. She worried about losing herself—her time, her freedom, the pieces of her identity. People spoke of sacrifice as beautiful, but to her, it felt uncertain. Would she still recognize herself? Would anything remain beyond “mother”?

She carried many questions tucked beneath the excitement of tiny, folded clothes in drawers.

Now, eight months later, she knew that motherhood isn’t a single moment, but thousands of tiny miracles stitched together. Like when Isabella looked up at her Mom as if she painted the moon, even on days when she tight roped the edge. How a simple “Mama” could soften the toughest moments. Magic came from those syllables, more powerful than anything she’d ever known.

There were ordinary wonders, too.

Camilla learned to read each cry—hungry, overwhelmed, tired—language only she could translate. She carried more than she believed possible, discovering strength she never trained for. Time bent around her; nights felt endless, yet years passed in a blink.

And there was subtle grace few recognized: how love could exist outside her body, how fear and pride could live side by side—fear of pain, pride in every small step.

Camilla realized something unexpected: she hadn’t disappeared. Her former self still lived within her—stronger, deeper, expanded. The sacrifices hadn’t erased her; they had reshaped her, stretching her capacity for love, patience, and resilience.

Some days were messy. There were tears, forgotten plans, moments of doubt. But even then, something remarkable remained: the ability to keep going, to love without perfection.

Motherhood isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up—again and again—with open arms and a tired smile, finding beauty in chaos, laughter in the noise, and purpose in the smallest moments.

One night, when the house was finally at rest, Camilla stood in the doorway watching Isabella sleep. The room was still, except for the soft rhythm of breathing. And she understood what had been building all along: she had not just raised a child.

She, too, had grown—stronger than she imagined, softer than she thought possible, braver than she ever needed to be. And wasn’t that, perhaps, the very reason we are here? In that quiet, ordinary moment, she knew motherhood wasn’t just something amazing she experienced. It was something amazing she became.

Holy Father, thank You for the gift of motherhood—the beauty, the challenges, and the quiet moments in between. Thank You for the strength You provide when days feel long, and for the love that fills our hearts beyond measure. Amen

The Narrow Gate

 “The gateway to God’s Kingdom is difficult; only a few will find it. ~ Matthew 7:13-14

More than 50 years later, the only test score that Booker remembered from middle school was 34. Like most 7^th graders, he had no idea what he wanted to do in life yet. His goal was simply getting through school and surviving the long walk home.

He waited nervously as Mr. Bales returned the graded final exams. The math test had been terribly difficult. There were questions he didn’t know; some he didn’t even understand. His heart pounded like the thundering hooves of a thousand feral mustangs.

As Bales dramatically dropped each student’s test on their desks, Booker heard groans and even a few tears. The grades weren’t looking good. As he picked up the stapled pages on his desk, he glanced with horror at the large score circled in red for emphasis. His grade – 34. 68%. FAIL!

He flipped the test over. It wasn’t something he wanted his classmates to see. Please God, let the grading scale be merciful.

Bales stood behind the well-worn desk and addressed his deflated students. “Your grades were awful, no one passed! I’ll be forced to grade on a curve since the highest score was only 34.”

Those were the final words Booker remembered. A 34 - he had the highest grade in the class. Suddenly, his abysmal test score didn’t look so bad. There were at least 30 kids in the class with lower scores than his.

He walked home that day, five decades ago, with the failing test score but passing grade safely tucked away in his bookbag. Booker’s Mom immediately asked: “How’d you do on the test, son?”

“I made a 34,” he replied cautiously.

Her expression changed from an inviting smile to one of disappointment. Booker knew he had to explain fast. “But Mom, I got the best grade in the class,” he stated boastfully.

His Mom replied emphatically: “34/50 is not a passing grade. I don’t care how everyone else did. It doesn’t matter that you were the best failure in the class! What matters is your lack of preparation,” she scolded.

That harsh judgment had remained with him ever since. As a father of two small boys himself, he now understood why. Hope is not a strategy, success only comes from intentional hard work.

We often don’t understand the wisdom of good parenting until we stand in their shoes. His Mom’s values carried him to great success throughout life.

The crowd often goes the wrong way. That path is wide and crowded. Victory’s road is narrow and barely occupied. For Christians, the way to eternal life is restricted to just one avenue – Christ. There’s no other way because He alone is “the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6)

Almighty Father, thank You that Your grace can save us and have the promise of eternal life with You in Heaven. Help me choose to follow the narrow path of disciplined, faithful discipleship, which leads to abundant life here on earth. Amen

On Fatherhood

 “You shall name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." ~ Matthew 1:21

He’s an interesting character the Bible barely mentions. A craftsman near the bottom of the social scale appears in nativity scenes, yet we overlook his journey and the price he paid to fulfill his role as the chosen safeguard of our Savior.

Joseph doesn’t get much credit because he wasn’t Jesus’ biological father, but he was a good Dad and an obedient Christian. Though he lived over 2,000 years ago, fathers from all generations can learn much from him about fatherhood.

Joseph’s faith and spiritual maturity were tested repeatedly. When unsure about his future with Mary, an angel came to him in a dream revealing who the child was, what He should be named, and His role in fulfilling God’s prophecy. When King Herod threatened his family, Joseph took them to Egypt, an unfamiliar land, and obeyed again when God told him it was safe to return.

All fathers are called to have this same sense of responsibility and courage to protect those under their care. When his family was in danger, Joseph willingly led them on the long, arduous journey to Egypt. Another essential part of every father’s role is to protect and defend.

Another important thing Joseph can teach fathers is the value of humility. He worked diligently, teaching Jesus his trade and ensuring Mary had everything she needed to fulfill her calling. 

He seemed content remaining out of the spotlight. His presence may have been quieter, but he was always present.

Scripture’s last glimpse of Joseph occurred when Jesus accompanied His parents on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. On this visit, their 12-year-old Son went missing among the throngs of Jews who’d journeyed to the temple.

After searching for three days, Jesus’ parents found Him listening, learning, and amazing all the teachers at the temple. “Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?” Jesus replied.

Instead of chastising or threatening punishment, Joseph’s calm demeanor demonstrated that guidance in raising children will sometimes come from unexpected sources, that they’ll continue to surprise and delight us, and eventually, we’ll have to let them go, as they follow God’s plan.

Too many families lack the steady leadership and presence of a father. Too often, our culture suggests that fathers aren’t necessary; that families can get along without them. But the absence of a strong father figure can have a profound impact on a person’s self-esteem.

When families don’t have fathers, boys often look for the wrong kinds of role models. Without a virtuous father, many girls don’t have a good example of how women should be treated and may choose less-than-admirable dating partners. 

Joseph’s example proves that families not only need fathers, but they also need fathers who trust in the Lord, no matter life’s challenges.

St. Joseph, thank you for your quiet and unwavering commitment to God’s plan. Help us trust our Heavenly Father as we lead our families, not only during the Christmas season but throughout all the seasons of life. Amen

Together Forever

 “Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your god will be my God." ~ Ruth 1:16

James Cameron’s 1997 film Titanic tells a fictional story of two young lovers who meet on the ship’s ill-fated voyage. Perhaps no scene in the movie is more haunting than the elderly couple who wait quietly together as the cold, dark waters of the North Atlantic swallow them.

Although a moment like this may seem even too “cheesy” for Hollywood, it was actually based on the story of an American immigrant couple named Isidor and Ida Straus.

Pillars of New York society, the Strauss were known for their philanthropy, civic engagement, and humility.

Bavarian-born Isador was both a politician and co-owner of Macy’s department store. The couple raised seven children, which kept Ida plenty busy.

The 1^st Class ticketholders boarded in Southampton, accompanied by Isidor’s butler and Ida’s maid. Four days into the luxury liner’s maiden crossing, in calm seas under a moonlit sky, the largest ocean liner in service at the time sideswiped an iceberg. The resulting football-field-sized gash below the ship’s waterline condemned the crew and passengers to almost certain death.

Various survivor interviews confirm that when evacuations began on that fateful night of April 15, 1912, Ida Straus and her husband were standing on the upper deck by Lifeboat 8. Due to his wealth and status, Isador was offered a spot in one of the first boats.

He adamantly refused, stating: “I will not go before the women and children.”

His wife Ida was then persuaded to board a lifeboat instead. In the “Book of Ruth’s” spirit, she too declined by addressing her husband: “We’ve lived together for many years. Where you go, I go.”

The couple made sure that Ida’s maid, Ellen Bird, secured a lifeboat spot. Ida gave the shivering woman her long mink fur coat to keep her warm. “I’ll no longer be needing it,” she declared.

Reliable witnesses later recounted seeing the Strauss’ washed away, arm in arm, as the ship took its fateful plunge to the sea bottom. More than 1,500 lives perished – mostly crew and steerage.

Isador’s frozen body was later recovered, but Mrs. Straus’s body was not.

Amidst the noise surrounding the deaths of numerous distinguished gentlemen, Ida’s sacrifice was mostly overshadowed. Yet, it stood as a powerful contrast to the era’s frequent and scandalous divorces among the wealthy class. She was praised for her love and devotion, highlighting the rarity of such honorable and unwavering commitment.

Their steadfast love and devotion amidst the tragedy serve as a timeless reminder of the power of a bond forged through a lifetime of shared experiences. On their shared monument, the loyal Jewish couple’s love is memorialized with King Soloman’s timeless biblical words:

“Many waters cannot quench love – neither can the floods drown it.” (Song of Songs 8:7)

Loving and eternal God, thank You for the gift of marriage and for being the Source of all love. We pray that our marriages lead to an amplification of Your name. Help us love our partners as Christ loved the church. Amen

Old School

 “Honor God, love others, respect those given authority." ~ 1 Peter 2:17

Laurie was on her best behavior the week before the dance, not wanting to give her Dad any reason to change his mind. But when the night of the long-awaited event arrived, it finally sunk in that her father would not go back on his word.

He even approved of her high neck, vermillion-colored, midi dress that accented her long blond curls. But, as he’d done with both brothers, she didn’t leave the house without some advice.

“If a boy asks you to dance and you decline, then don't dance for the rest of the night.” He went on to explain that it was ok to refuse a request from a boy who was a thug or was known for “using” a girl sexually. But you should never reject a dance request from a boy just because he isn't your handsome ideal, only to dance with someone else later. That would be rude and hurt feelings.

Her brothers hadn’t escaped Dad’s old-school chivalry either. “Never cross the room to ask the prettiest girl to dance. It embarrasses the other girls. Choose the closest one. If she happens to be the most popular, then that’s your good luck. If not, treat her like the Belle of the Ball anyway.”

Dad’s Old School advice had nothing to do with his age. The term wasn’t derogatory. He still had many of the same beliefs and core values he’d been exposed to much earlier in his life. He simply savored traditions more than current trends.

While some things from days gone by are no longer practical or relevant, now Laurie has gained a profound appreciation for his traditional thinking while raising her own children.

She and Darin, her husband of 22 years, are teaching them to respect parents and anyone older or in positions of authority. Speak when spoken to. No cursing, swearing, or insulting others allowed.

They want their kids to understand the difference between crass nationalism (“my country right or wrong, better than everyone else”) and a love of country - celebrating its traditions and trying to make our country better, more inclusive.

Her Dad’s WWII generation certainly knew the importance of self-sacrifice. They’ve tried to instill an energetic, grateful work ethic, whether it’s mowing the lawn, completing homework, or helping others. They’re changing the “all about me, what’s in it for me, and how little can I get away with doing” mentality.

Sit up straight. Look someone in the eye. Stand tall. There’s far too much slacking today. Old-school behavior goals include proper table manners and more moderate (less) consumption of food.

Sounds a whole lot like traditional Judeo/Christian values, doesn’t it? While they haven’t totally disappeared, they certainly need to make a comeback.

Dear Lord, we have so often gone along with the ways of the world, without even noticing. Forgive us for our sins of commission and omission. Wake us up to Your transformative power. We desperately need Your help. Amen

"Cats in the Cradle"

 “Teach your children right from wrong by your example. " ~ Proverbs 22:6

The above song presents a series of dialogues between a father and his son. As the verses progress, we see them age without really connecting.

When the son is young, the father can't find time for him, too busy with “planes to catch and bills to pay.” Despite the emotional distance, the boy admires him, saying "I'm gonna be like you, Dad."

Near the end of the song, the now-retired father aches to spend time with his boy. Married now with a family of his own, the boy has indeed followed his father's example and is too busy “if [only] I could find the time” for his aging parent.

Picture a man sitting at his kitchen table, staring into the backyard at a rusted swing set and an overgrown sandbox. Regret grieves him as he reflects on how it all went by so fast and how his son “had grown up just like me.”  

As the haunting chorus depicts "the cats in the cradle" (the family at home) "and the silver spoon" (wealth the father seeks to earn). The "little boy blue" (sad, neglected child) waits patiently while “the man on the moon" (father) remains emotionally unreachable.

It's about the father’s deep regret for ignoring his maturing son while always choosing to do things more important. It’s a vivid realization that his adoring son did indeed grow up to be his mirror image.

The song's lyrics began as a poem written by Harry Chapin’s wife, Sandra. Put to music in 1974 after the birth of their son Josh, it offered a blunt warning of a joyless future should he continue the torrid pace of his life. Ironically that summer, the musician was tragically killed in a car accident.

The “Cat’s in the Cradle” message provides a warning about not investing enough time in one’s family. So many powerful and seemingly desirable personal goals and idols lure men away from the home.

The song shatters the myth of spending “quality time” with your children or the myth that “you can have it all.” Parents who spend too much time seeking their own needs can only caution their kids: “Do as I say, not as I do.”

Father’s Day is a day to honor and celebrate dads. The day also compels fathers to introspectively examine the serious calling of being a Dad.

The family must always be a father’s priority, putting his family's often mundane, needs before his own. A father’s love must be constant and enduring, no matter the circumstances. Leading by example through an example of fidelity, compassion, attentiveness, and reflection defines true leadership.

Dads – it’s never too late to hear the call to arms on behalf of your children. Happy Dad’s Day!

Almighty Father, help me be a better parent. Teach me to understand my children, to listen patiently to what they have to say, and to answer all their questions kindly.  Help me love them unselfishly and You have loved me. Amen

Leaders are Readers

 “Children, don’t resent when God corrects you, His reprimand is proof of his love." ~ Proverbs 3:11-12

Sonya grew up in a foster home, married a twenty-eight-year-old minister at age 13, and moved to Detroit. The couple had two sons, ages 8 and 10, together before he abandoned the family for another woman. 

With only a third-grade education, she worked several jobs to keep her family afloat. There were days when she left before the boys awoke and didn’t return home until they were asleep.  Though she herself had never learned to read, she knew education would be her children's ticket to a better life. “Boys,” she advised, “if you can read, you can learn anything you want to know.”

By all accounts, young Bennie was a troubled boy. He doodled in class, fought on the playground, and was disrespectful at home.  When he brought home an unsatisfactory report card placing him dead last in his fifth-grade class, Sonya knew she needed God’s wisdom in order to help her boys.

She took drastic steps, placing strict limits on the amount of TV the boys could watch. They had to complete their homework before they could go out to play. And Sonya took one additional step - insisting that they read 2 library books every week and write reviews on each one. She closely examined the reports, showing her approval with a checkmark at the top of the page.

It only took about one month before Bennie was rushing home from school to read his latest book. Before bed every night, he immersed himself in the Proverbs, a habit he would continue for the rest of his life. 

His mom was right. Reading was fun, and it made him smarter.

Sonya noticed an ember of curiosity within him and she helped fan it into a flame. She always had faith in them. She made no excuses for herself and would accept none from them – for their sake.

Books helped Bennie see that he really could learn things after all. By the end of sixth grade, his grades ranked at the top of his class. He excelled in high school, but having only $10 for college application fees, he completed only one. Scholarships and grants helped pay the aspiring doctor’s way through Yale and the U of M’s School of Medicine.

At age 33, Dr. Ben Carson became the youngest-ever Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins. He gained worldwide recognition in 1987 as the principal surgeon in the successful, 22-hour separation of Siamese twins joined at the head.

What made the difference for Ben?  He didn't have a great school district or rich, educated parents. But he did have a loving mother who valued education deeply and conveyed confidence in him. He had a growing faith. And he had books.

Lord, help me to see my children as who You designed them to be. Help me focus on Godly values and habits that will impact them for a lifetime, instead of filling up their time with activities the world says are important. Amen 

"All's Well With My Soul"

 “His peace will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” ~ Philippians 4:7

Horatio Spafford knew something about life’s unexpected challenges. A successful lawyer and real estate investor, he and his lovely wife Anna enjoyed five children. Yet, they were not strangers to heartbreak and calamity.

Their beloved 4-year-old son, Horatio Jr, died of scarlet fever – the same year the Great Chicago Fire gutted much of his fortune along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

But the worst was yet to come.

Thinking a vacation would do his family some good, he sent his wife and four daughters on a ship to England, planning to join them after he finished some pressing business at home.

Four days into the voyage, their ship struck a larger, iron-clad vessel. Within 12 minutes, the ship slipped beneath the dark waters of the Atlantic, carrying with it 226 passengers including the four Spafford children. Only Anna survived.

It was the worst disaster in naval history until the Titanic sank 40 years later. Anna sent a hauntingly brief telegram to her husband that simply read: “Saved alone. What shall I do?” Horatio immediately boarded a ship to join his grieving wife overseas.

His faith never faltered. As he thought about his daughters three miles below, words of comfort and hope filled his heart. His writings would become a well-beloved hymn:

“When peace like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll -

Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to know. It is well, it is well with my soul.”

Its somber tone focuses less on what was lost and more on where hope can be found. Published in 1876, “It is Well with My Soul” was composed by songwriter Philip Bliss.

Back in Chicago, the Spaffords tried mending their shattered lives. Anna gave birth to Bertha (1878) as well as a son, Horatio (1880) though he later died of scarlet fever just like his brother before him (of the same name).

Five years later and after the birth of daughter Grace, the Spaffords moved to Jerusalem out of a devout interest in the Holy Land. There they established the American Colony, a utopian community engaged in philanthropic work regardless of religious affiliation. It welcomed Muslims, Jews, and Christians.

It’s amazing to think such encouraging and uplifting words were born from the depths of such unimaginable sorrow. It’s an example of truly inspiring faith and trust in the Lord. Perhaps that’s why this hymn, like no other, demonstrates the power our God has to comfort our weary souls when the darkest tragedies overtake us.

Heavenly Father, life can be so unpredictable, with both joys and sorrows. But You bring me such peace.  No matter what the future holds, it is “well with my soul” because You are always with me.  I know that You will carry me through. Amen

The Gift of Loneliness

“Surely I’m with you always, to the very end of time." ~ Matthew 28:20

Andee (28) lost her husband in a terrible accident.  So, loneliness was something she’d come to know pretty well. 

She didn’t admit that to elicit sympathy, but more as simply a matter of fact.  In reality, she enjoyed a wonderful life with her infant daughter, but she often thought about what it would be like to watch a movie on the couch with her husband rather than alone.

At first, single life was panic attacks and crushing solitude.  It felt shameful - like failure and rejection.  Almost as if society had labeled her ‘defective.’  Now after three years, and with the help of her church’s “Singles Mingle,” Andee was finding a calmer, more peaceful center.  The universe had gifted her time to heal and there was a fresh perspective.

Tonight, at the bi-monthly Singles discussion group, something escaped from her mouth, that had never crossed her mind before – at least consciously.

“We sometimes think of loneliness as a negative thing, but it’s actually a gift of sorts.  For me, loneliness has actually been one of my greatest blessings.  It has taught me to rely on God in a way I don’t know that I would’ve learned otherwise.”

On the drive home, she reflected on her startling comment. The craziest part of those words?  She meant them.  Andee felt them deep within her soul.

Her mind flashed back to points of deepest loneliness and she didn’t actually think of herself as alone.  Instead, she thought of how deeply she came to know God in those sacred moments.

Lonely feelings transformed into confident contentment with solitude.  Failures became a chance to learn new ways of living and behaving.  Shame was a label she dismissed because it never fit.

The next day, Andee got a text from a woman who’d been in the group the previous night.  She said, “Thought about last night: l-ONE-ly ... the root word is ONE (instead of lone!)  When we’re lonely, it gives us the opportunity to be ONE with ourselves and with our Heavenly Father.”

“It provides an opportunity to realign ourselves with our Savior’s plan for us.  It gives us a chance to slow down and think about what we can do better in following Him.  What a blessing!  From now on, I’ll look at being lonely in a whole different way!”

Andee thought about her late husband - the best relationship to date in her life.  It’d been cherished because of the time spent one-on-one, in deep conversation, and working through hard things together.

The same is true for God.  It’s by spending time alone with Him, communicating in stillness, and going through hard times together that she’d come to count Him as her dearest friend.

Loving God, thank You for never forgetting us in the midst of our pain and struggle.  Forgive us for doubting You.  We set our eyes on You today, choosing joy and peace when the whispered lies suggest that we should have neither.   Amen

For the Love of a Child

 “Let the children come to Me.  The kingdom of heaven belongs to them." ~ Matthew 19:14

The tiny tot blinked and gazed up at his ginormous Dad in a vague haze.  His miniature frame had finally surrendered to exhaustion.  Carl reached down and picked up his son Jameson and carried him as if it were a hug that kept his heart in sinus rhythm.

Within but a few steps, the boy snuggled into his Dad, safe and secure, letting the world of dreams come in its fanciful way.  Confirmation spread across his normally expressive face; his chatty mouth had gone soft with sleep.  Two hearts melding as one: connected, bonded, indivisible.

Carl savored this precious time with his son.  He felt so light, looked so perfect, and smelled so divine.  He will be Jameson’s protector for as long as he lives; love for him that will last for all eternity. 

A sense of complete and total peace washed over Carl.  Is there anything sweeter in the world than a sleeping child?  He’ll only be a little boy for such a short time, yet he can already name a thousand things he adored about him.

His chest tightened.  The extra weight was no bother, only the anxiety of not knowing how many more times he’d get to carry him like this.  How long before Jameson will be too big for his arms, too old for needing to be tucked in, too grown up for what he was to him right now?  It’s something that’ll pass without witness and he dreaded it.  So for now, Carl would treasure the heft for as long as the boy lets him carry it.

For now, he’ll breathe in the scent of maple syrup and sweaty feet that boys emit and commit it to memory.  He’ll continue to lift him every time he needs it, safely bring him where he needs to be, and leave him when it is time to go.  In short – he wants to love Jameson as Jesus does.  Perfectly!

He wondered: “When he looks into my eyes, will he see the face of God looking back with eyes of delight?  When he hears my voice, will he get a taste of Christ’s love for him?  When he’s being held, will he catch a glimpse of God’s heart beating wildly with excitement in his future?

Of course, that’s impossible, only Jesus can and does love perfectly.  But when His grace begins to transform our hearts, it also begins to transform our parenting.  It isn’t about what we do, but what His grace does through us when we surrender to His wholehearted acceptance of us.  Until we accept God’s wild, unrestricted love, we will struggle in vain to let it flow through us to our kids.

Lord, help me love my children as you love them.  Show me that my ability to love others as Jesus loves them is profoundly influenced by my own understanding and acceptance of how You love me!    Amen

A Father's Instinct

 “The watches of you like a protective shade." ~ Psalm 121:5

Like so many New Englanders, Tom adored the Red Sox.  He coached his kids through Little League and, occasionally, took them to one of the most beloved MLB ballparks on earth - Fenway Park.  

He’d scored 3 tickets for a game against the White Sox.  With his two younger sons in tow, the usher escorted them to front-row seats just behind the Red Sox dugout.  Tom’s smile couldn’t adequately reflect his amazement.  The lush turf, the Green Monster - they were so close.

The game was everything they’d hoped for.  With the score tied 2-2, Bosox second baseman Dave Stapleton swung late, slashing a foul ball into the stands to the right side of home plate.  The ball whistled into the seats so fast it was hard to follow.  Tom assumed the ball entered the dugout. 

Until he heard his 4-year-old son's sickening scream.

Tom looked down at Jonathan.  Blood gushed from a wound over his left eye.  The ball had fractured his son’s skull.

Boston slugger Jim Rice, one of the game’s biggest stars at the time, stood on the top stair of the dugout.  He couldn't see exactly where the ball landed but heard the horrific thud, the "Ooooh" of the crowd - and the dreadful silence that followed.

Sprinting from the dugout, he leapt into the crowd. Cradling the unresponsive child in his burly arms, Rice hustled back to the dugout where he was immediately attended to by the team’s physician.  The scene took less than 60 seconds.

Jonathon’s life-threatening head injury required emergency surgery to relieve the pressure on his brain.  Every second counted.  Rice's quick thinking helped save the boy’s life.  Rice even requested that the hospital bill be sent to him personally.

Incredibly, Jonathan left the hospital 5 days later.  They’d reunite 8 months later at Fenway when Jonathon delivered the first pitch of the ‘83 season.  

The best thing Jim Rice did in a Red Sox uniform wasn’t mentioned on his Hall of Fame plaque.  It doesn't show up in his stats or support his stature as one of the most dominant hitters of his era.

Rice, a father of two young children, was thinking of only one thing.  "My child," he said.

God our Father in heaven is the perfect example of what a father should be - a life-giver, instructor, provider, and protector.  He watches over us; never needing a break from the incessant needs of His children.  

The God “who keeps you” won’t doze off at 11 pm scrolling through notifications on an iPhone.  No, He’s available every minute of every day for the entirety of our lives and into eternity.  Such vigilant protection is unlike any other god.

“Our Father, who art in heaven,” thank You for delighting in Your children.  Help us consider all that You are and all that You have done for us.  Pour out Your love, grace, and goodness upon all Dads today and every day.  Amen

Grandma's Infinitude

“God appeared to Joseph in a dream, warning him to go home another way." ~ Matthew 2:12-13

Was her grandma sending a warning??  For the second night in a row, Ruth had made a guest appearance in Sandy’s dreams, speaking to her with an anxious expression.  But she couldn’t decipher the message.

Up until 16 years ago, Ruth had lived with Sandy and her family.  She helped around the house and cared for their two young children.  Her health had been excellent for a septuagenarian.  

Ruth never sat still, either baking, socializing or volunteering at the local Mom's and Toddler’s group where she led the sing-a-long.  Just being around all those little ones gave her such energy.

Suddenly at 73, Ruth’s heart gave out in her sleep.  Losing her so suddenly was a terrible shock.

Through the years, during difficult times, she comforted Sandy in dreams, (Grandma’s are a frequent dream themes).  Dreaming of her Grandma often indicated family happiness.  Once she’d heard pleasant news regarding a family member.  Other times the dream was followed by an invitation to a wedding or some other family celebration.  More often though, the dream just brought wonderful childhood memories.

Last night’s dream was different.

Sandy vividly remembered standing in the doorway of their home; Ruth directly in front of her.  She was so happy to see her Grandma again.  Missing her still hurt so badly.

Ruth said something like "I know you do, but everything will be OK".  Sandy actually recalled how warm her sweater felt against her cheek, as if she was hugging Grandma for real.

But on this the third night in a row, alarm sounded in her voice; as if she was worried about somebody, someone close to her, somebody like Sandy!

The explanation came quickly: Ruth warned Sandy to seek medical attention.  She woke up shaking.  Otherwise, she felt perfectly normal.  What could be wrong?  Then it dawned on her.

She woke her husband and demanded they go the ER.  Better safe than sorry, he guessed, wondering privately if they’d even admit her.

At the hospital, an echocardiogram showed a balloon-like bulge in the heart’s aorta, that if ruptured, could quickly lead to death.  That exact condition had caused Ruth’s sudden death. 

Surgery followed immediately.  “You’re lucky,” the cardiac surgeon said candidly.  “Most people with this just die in their sleep.  There usually aren’t any warning signs.”

There was for Sandy.

Many things happen that we can’t explain or understand.  God’s guidance is more complicated than just bowing our heads and asking for it.  That’s partly because He uses many different means of connecting with us.  God may reach us through another person, an image, or even through a dream.  Remember - with Him, there are no coincidences.

Loving God, thank You for the chance to communicate with You for help, comfort and counsel.  If my dreams are an answer to my prayers or part of a special message You have for me, help me understand what You are trying to tell me.  Amen

"Time Passages"

 “Make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good." ~ Ephesians 5:16

As if her VCR was pressed in rewind mode, images of Nevaeh’s childhood flashed before her eyes.  Youthful memories are a photo album that can be edited.  She kept the best ones - those that brought joy and let the others fade away.

There she was, age three, building a sand sculpture on the beach ... feeling the warmth of bright sunlight shining down on her cute, angelic face.  Nevaeh imagined a birthday cake fashioned of sweet caramel sand with candy grains of golden sugar and creamy frosting.

Time flew as those tiny hands morphed into stronger ones building a castle from Lego bricks.  Bold colors, dancing unicorns and Princess Nevaeh holding court. 

Holding one hand and one foot, Daddy would spin her around faster and faster, calling it an "airplane" ride.  She felt giddy with pleasure ‘flying’ above the tall grass and meadow wildflowers.

Hopscotch, with colorful chalk amid the beating sun was how she and her grade school friends spent the last of each Indian summer.  Without computers or iPhones, they drew squares on crumbling sidewalks; cheapest entertainment money could buy.

Moving still faster now.  Those same hands grasped a pencil tightly they while taking her first math test.  Later yet, only slightly more relaxed, they held onto a steering wheel, driving along with family and friends.

Their wedding was perfect – a simple ceremony that celebrated the purity of their love just as a simple frame accentuates the beauty of a photograph.  It was like basic air and water rather than fireworks; unpretentious with one another, their commitment was forever.

Tearful cries interrupted Nevaeh’s dreamlike serenity as her husband burst into tears.  His glossy eyes turned to Nevaeh.  In an almost-broken voice he spoke gratefully of their beautiful daughter.

Through her exhaustion she smiled, letting her eyes leave his face to take in the newborn she brought to chest.  Her eyes were more brilliant than she could’ve dreamed they’d be, her hands more delicate.  She felt so light, looked so perfect, smelled so divine.  Only minutes old and her tiny girl began to root, content smile, instincts strong.

Hers had been a childhood of innocence, wonder, security, and of love.  Nevaeh (Heaven spelled backward) now understood that children hold the future in their delicate hands.  Perhaps God had given her a second chance ... a chance to relive her childhood again; maybe even better this time! 

She must enable this infant child to shape that future, to inspire her to dream of hope, peace and love; to empower her with the values and skills to make those dreams come true. 

As parents, it’s ultimately our responsibility to instill those foundational principles purposefully if we want a peaceful, thriving world.

Almighty Father, our time on earth goes by so fast.  Help me make it count by contributing to Your Kingdom.  Inspire more leaders to step forward and teach the next generation how to lead and love others in Your name.”  Amen

For All the Moms

 “His mother treasured all these things in her heart." ~ Luke 2:51

This past year has been challenging at best!  But like all the Moms before you - you forged ahead, persevered, and made it work.  Because as a Mom, there’s no finer choice; no back-up plan.  Cheers to you on this your special day!

Here’s to the Moms whose hearts grow exponentially wide for all children.  Who pray that kids worldwide have safety, food and love; who suddenly feel their suffering as if they were their own.

For all of you who sat up nights cradling sick toddlers, cleaning up macaroni chunks and cherry Kool-Aid saying, “It’s OK, honey, Mommy’s here.”  In a world of endemic divisiveness, where hatred is the cause and love the antidote, you relish the chance to rise above, to conquer it with empathy, wisdom and by example.

Here's to the moms whose child surprised them by being slightly "different" at birth.  And to the mothers whose children were born ill, but fight tirelessly for their lives.  They’ll get their courage and character from you. 

This is for those who show up at work with spit-up stains on their blouses and diapers in their purses.  Then after a tough day at work, still read “Goodnight, Moon” every night.  And read it again, “Just one more time?” as they fall peacefully asleep.

This is for all of you who froze your fannies off on metal soccer bleachers so that when she asks, “Did you see my goal?” you can say, “Of course, I wouldn’t have missed it for the world,” and mean it!

This is for all the mothers who teach their sons to cook and their daughters to catch fly balls.  Here’s a shout-out to all of you whose heads turn automatically when a little voice calls “Mom?” in a crowd, even though you know yours are away at college.

To the moms drained and depleted, thanks for waking up each day to battle forward.  It’s OK when you mess up occasionally.  We know hard you’re trying and how much we mean to you!

This is for mothers whose kids have gone astray; who can’t find the words to reach them.  And for Moms of all ages who put flowers on their children’s graves praying that when their own time comes, it’s their child that joyfully leads them by the hand into His eternal Kingdom.

Finally, three gazillion cheers to those of you who are still raising us … and helping raise your grandkids; who decades later, still continue giving of yourselves to both the big and little people you adore so much.

One day a year isn’t enough to celebrate motherhood and everything you do for us.  To all the Moms and Moms-to-be out there … Happy, Happy Mother’s Day!

Lord of Life, thank You for all mothers.  Continue strengthening them in their daily tasks.  Grant them wisdom in the lessons they teach, patience in the discipline they foster, and persistence in their promotion of decency and compassion.  Amen

Try Another Way

 “Never tire of doing good." ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:13

Janae stood at the end of what seemed like an endless line at the grocery store.  She checked her cell.  Exactly three minutes had passed since she last checked an hour ago, or so it seemed.  The cashiers were doing their best, but progress was measured in millimeters. 

To prevent further self-pity, Janae shifted her attention to others in line.  A sublime compassion quickly washed over her for the mother trying to keep twin four-year-olds entertained.

Mom was doing her best, but boredom was about to detonate.  One of the girls walked over to a candy display, gazing back over her shoulder to gage her Mom’s reaction.  The other sister remained by her mother’s side, ready to bolt depending on Mom’s response.

Instead of the expected authoritarian voice that Janae would likely have used in this situation, Mom did something curious.  She squatted down to eye level, looked at the child testing her patience and calmly asked her to come back.

No worries, no anger, no provocation.  Just enough leeway for the restless child to make her own decision. 

She rejoined her family and retreated behind her mother.

The line had barely moved, so Janae decided to try and help. “Have you ever played ‘I Spy’?” she asked the girls.  

Two pairs of eyes looked at her as they considered her question.  Not the same fun as hopscotch or hide 'n' seek, but OK for now. 

Soon the children were engrossed in their own imaginations.  They noticed things in that store Janae would never have seen. 

Who knew that Kroger offered over 200 gift card varieties, or that fragrant bouquets are located near the store’s entrance to encourage impulse buying, or that favored kid items are placed at their buy-level on shelves?

Janae also noticed a ripple effect.  People who’d been grumbling at the wait, now enjoyed ‘spying’ two sweet sisters encourage and help each other find unique things in the store.  Time flew!

Soon, it was their turn to check out.  Janae took a moment with Mom.  “You did a great job back there,” she said.  “I was so impressed that you didn’t just hand them your phone.”

Mom smiled.  “I’m a kindergarten teacher, so I have other tricks up my sleeve than resorting to a mobile device.”  She laughed and added, “Thank you for stepping in!”  Looking down at her twins, she added, “You were our blessing today.”

Be a blessing to someone else today.  Your words or actions will be felt by them and seen by those around you, amplifying its effect.  By sharing your goodness with someone else, you lift them up. And they’ll likely pay it forward and do the same for someone else.

Father God, You never tire of keeping me safe and blessing me with abundant care.  Let my heart beat with humility and servanthood.  Keep my eyes and ears open today for even the smallest opportunity to serve You, to make others smile, to bring some joy to this troubled world.  Amen

Only God Knew

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under God.” ~ Ecclesiastes 1:3

Joyce stood alone but for a suitcase at the front steps of the St. Mary’s Home for unwed mothers.  Long tangled hair encircled her face, obscuring the layer of grime only broken by tear tracks.  Her clothes were from a summer that passed several months ago; cheekbones more pronounced than they should ever be on one so young.  At her age, she should be cherubic, but instead she looked shocked, rejected, terrified. 

Joyce got pregnant at 15 after her first sexual encounter with a small-town boyfriend.  She was now 3 months pregnant which had humiliated her fervently religious parents.  During the 1950s and ‘60s, unwed mothers like Joyce were often “encouraged” to put their babies up for adoption; sometimes against their own free will.

Her parents banished her to St. Mary’s; the child’s father deserted her.  She had no other choice. 

Joyce’s baby boy was born at Booth Hospital near St. Mary’s.  She spent less than an hour cuddling her infant, before giving him away.  Her guilt at relinquishing the newborn never really faded.

After the delivery, no one in her family wanted her back.

So, Joyce stayed on at St. Mary’s; performing menial jobs like mopping floors and doing laundry.  Over the years however, she attended night schools and earned both HS and college degrees.  Eventually, she became a social worker there, counseling girls who’d been in her same position ... for the next 50 years.

During that time, St. Mary’s transformed from a place where mother and child were separated, to a home where many mothers kept their babies after birth and were counseled on how to return home with them.

At 72 and retired, Joyce was invited to give the keynote speech at St. Mary’s 100-year celebration.  In it, Joyce told a story showing how her dedication to St. Mary’s paid off immeasurably.

“One day,” she began, “I was in the staff lounge when one of our girls came in and said there was a man in the lobby who’d come because he was tracing his own adoption.  He wanted answers about where he’d come from.  His parents had told him that he was born at St. Mary’s. 

So, I met with him.”

“And right away a strange feeling came over me.  It was his voice … his eyes …  his sincerity.  I felt as though I knew him.  I asked him what his birthday was and he said April 5, 1950.”

“And then I knew.  I knew he was my child.  I put my arms round him and everything melted away.  All my pain; every regret I ever had.”

And I knew it was a miracle.  And that’s why God had kept me at St. Mary’s.”

Father God, thank You for the gift of adoption -for the gift of life, and health, and promise, and future.  You knew them before they were born.  May they know they’re Your beloved children, made perfectly in your image.  Amen