Tag: truth

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Crossing Cultures Memoir

Hopewords

Last year, I saw a random ad for a writers conference called HopeWords. In Bluefield, West Virginia. 

Glancing at familiar and not-so-familiar names of presenters, I somehow knew—I’d be there in April 2024. 

I recruited my friend and fellow writer to sign up. It’s not like other writers conferences, we were told. But then, having never been to one before—what did I know?

This past week, I’ve been reflecting on those 24 hours of HopeWords Writers Conference 2024. Remembering Bluefield’s generosity: homemade desserts, excellent musicians, rides on the trolley. Considering the words of Travis Lowe, Daniel Nayeri, Mitali Perkins, Jackie Hill Perry, Hannah Anderson, and more. 

And feeling thankful for that not-so-random ad.

Some of the authors and books at HopeWords 2024.
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Devotional

Enemy at the gate

Enemy at the gate. In our everyday lives. Enemy of our souls–the deceiver.

Making promises that entice. Feeding our longing for things to be easy. Comfortable. 

Highlighting our fears of future unknowns. Making us wonder about God’s good purpose. His ordained plan.

Sometimes it’s tempting to give in to the lie. What sounds better. Almost true. 

Enemy at the gate. Image by Dan Gold on Unsplash.
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Crossing Cultures Making Disciples Memoir

In flight

The young man apologizes as we get up to let him through to his window seat. We have a long flight ahead. Fourteen hours or so. 

Beforehand, I’ve asked for a heart attentive to His prompting. And for willing availability, boldness to share the gospel.

It’s not my first thought on airplanes lately, to be honest. I’d rather chill in my own little world. Enjoy the extended “pause” from daily tasks.

But as he’s seated, I pray for wisdom. To listen and obey.

In flight. Image by Luigi Laezza on Unsplash.
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