top view of a family praying before christmas dinner
Advent, Christian Living, Intentional, Relationships

A dinner of hope and celebration – a Slavic Christmas tradition

Twenty years ago I married into the Suvar family. I knew that they had family roots from the Czech Republic and Slovakia but didn't know how much of that had carried forward from the move to America. But, like many traditions that get passed along through families - food and holiday traditions were part of it. A tradition that has become special to me is the Vilija dinner that we enjoy together every Christmas. There are specific decorations used and certain foods that we eat. Each part points to the story of Jesus in some way and I love the reflection that comes with it as we gather together as a family to commemorate Christ's birth.

selective focus photography of child s hand
Encouragement, Intentional, Relationships

4 ways God is not your dad

Because fathers are part of humanity, they are also prone to the sin nature we all possess. And with the high amount of fatherless children, many can get the distorted idea that all fathers are prone to this - even our heavenly Father. It can be difficult to believe that a God who calls Himself our Father could do any better than the actions of the dads we know. We project our hurt from our own fathers onto Him and assume the worst.

Encouragement, Intentional, Relationships

How are you smelling?

A few years ago, when my grandparents were moving from their home into an Assisted Living facility, I helped them sort through their things in storage. I came across some old pillowcases and sheets and thought they could be repurposed into a craft project someday. They gladly passed them on to me. Not long after,… Continue reading How are you smelling?

Christian Living, Depression, Encouragement

Encouragement for when life is overwhelming

hope in midst of suffering This past week our school community has suffered a great loss. Our head basketball coach, a man who exemplified Godly character, strength, and grace, passed away from cancer. It was a long, hard fight and he continued to tell the story of God's salvation and the hope of heaven to… Continue reading Encouragement for when life is overwhelming