The Warning Signs Around My House
The other day I was reflecting on all the warning signs around my house. It began early in the morning as I slipped the newspaper out of its protective plastic sleeve. Stamped on the plastic sleeve were these words in big black letters: WARNING: TO AVOID DANGER OF SUFFOCATION, KEEP ALL PLASTIC BAGS AWAY FROM BABIES AND CHILDREN. (more…)
The Love of Books
I just finished reading a book entitled For the Love of Books by Ronald B. Shwartz. The author asked hundreds of celebrated writers to name 3-6 books they love or that greatly influence their lives. The books could be of every kind, genre and period. Over 100 writers responded. I really enjoyed reading their selections.
The Price We Pay for Ashes
A first grade teacher was telling her students about receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday. When she was finished she asked, “D you have any questions?” One little girl raised her hand and asked, “Are they FREE?”
I love this true story. Though she was only six years old, the little girl knew how wonderful it was to get something for nothing. I don’t know what answer that teacher gave to that child, but I do know the answer I would give to an adult. Are the ashes free? YES and NO.
Yes, the ashes are free. No collection will be taken up to pay for them. But in another way, the ashes are NOT free. Why? Because the ashes are a way of publicly proclaiming our faith. When we receive them we are saying, “These ashes mark me as a disciple of Jesus.” And being a disciple of Jesus always costs us something. That cost can take many forms: being patient with a whining child, giving generously to your church, making time for prayer, doing small favors cheerfully, forgiving a past hurt, being honest when we’re tempted to cheat or lie.
The beginning of Lent is a good time to ask ourselves: Do my words and actions mark me as a disciple of Jesus? I would also like to hear from you. Do you have any suggestions for Lenten practices that you would be willing to share with us?
Why Sunflower Seeds?
Why did I name my blog “Sunflower Seeds”? First, because sunflowers are just plain beautiful. When I was growing up on our small farm in northeastern Ohio, we often grew sunflowers. Even back then I loved their tall sturdy stalks, their bright yellow petals, and their “faces” of rich, dark seeds. (more…)
