Sometimes the simplest moments become the most meaningful ministries. For me, many of those moments begin when the kettle sings. The sound of boiling water and the whistle of the kettle signals that something good is about to happen. But for me, it also carries the memory of special times with my English mum. She believed most of life's problems could be solved with a cup of tea...
That weekend, we discovered a truth more beautiful than any home tour. Yet God restored that joy too— A simple wooden rocking horse became a symbol of the quiet miraculous ways God brings lost things home...
The spires, stained glass windows, and vaulted ceilings with unparalleled artwork were meant to draw our eyes and hearts heavenward in worship of God. Yet now, in many of the churches, the gaze is now downward onto smartphones, with long lines of tourists missing the true reason these houses of God were created.
This time of the year can seem very dreary, and with each new snowstorm or tornado warning, the days of spring and summer seem so far away. All the dead trees and the brown lawns don’t give much hope of seeing any flower bulbs popping up soon. But, slowly, as the days grow longer (we gain about 2–3 minutes a day), we begin seeing the sun more often, and our hope is restored … spring will soon be here.
These holidays are for making memories, with relatives traveling great distances to connect. Instead of dreading the gathering, I offer guidelines for maintaining a calm and enjoyable meal, ensuring we cherish our time together despite our differences.
Halifax, Nova Scotia—a city long on my bucket list— finally became a reality for me this past month. But its historical significance, particularly regarding the Titanic, adds a unique depth to its allure. In April 1912, Halifax played a pivotal role in the recovery efforts following the Titanic’s tragic sinking, a connection that made my visit even more meaningful.
WATCHING THE NEWS FLASHES OF MEDICAL PERSONNEL (AND MY NURSE FRIENDS) DRESSED IN BUBBLE HELMETS AND PROTECTIVE GEAR, I remember many times in my nursing career when I had to gown, glove and mask before entering a patient’s room.
By Penelope Carlevato in Leading Hearts magazine
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.—Colossians 3:16
CAROLING ON CHRISTMAS EVE, TRIMMING THE TREE AND LISTENING TO CHRISTMAS SONGS ARE PART OF MY FAMILY’S TRADITIONS. We also make a gingerbread house, buy an Advent calendar, and celebrate Boxing Day! We read the Christmas story on Christmas Eve, watch quintessential Christmas movies on television and hide Elf on the Shelf.
(more…)Like many families, these traditions are passed on from one generation to the next, and we occasionally add new ones. But the custom of singing the familiar carols is my favorite.
“Those who are wise will shine like the bright expanse of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” —–Daniel 12:3
You may think of a million people more equipped than you to accomplish the call God has on your life, but God is calling you to RISE UP because It is Your Time to Shine!
by Penelope Carlevato @teatimepen in Leading Hearts magazine
Everything was ready for our family Christmas dinner. The dining room table was set, the roast in the oven and the Christmas tree lights twinkling in the living room. Everyone was to arrive in a few minutes. Then my cell phone chimed — a new text. The message was from my crazy uncle who was on his way. He wasn’t invited, because he always caused problems. What should I do? Set another place?