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The Virgin Mary: Though she’s one of only 49 women mentioned by name in the Bible, she was handpicked for one of the most remarkably bizarre missions in all of history. Yet for many of us, Mary is considered a supporting character in Christmas sermons. But when we dust the holiday glitter off her … [Read more...] about A Teen Mom’s Tips for Disabling Shame

At this very moment, my living room floor bears the unmistakable evidence of our son’s evening playtime. Surveying the items strewn across our area rug—an orange monster truck, a tiny train, a plastic blue airplane, a bright yellow bulldozer—it’s fairly clear a boy lives here. There’s just something … [Read more...] about Three Reasons We’re Reading the Bible’s “Girl Stories” to Our Son

Reflect on Mary’s story: Luke 1:26-56 Sometime after receiving the news that she was pregnant with God, Mary breaks out in song, marveling that she—a young peasant girl—could hold the mystery of Christ within her body! Here’s a selection from Mary’s prayer, called The Magnificat: Full prayer … [Read more...] about Praying with Wonder – Mary

Reflect on Hannah’s story: 1 Samuel 1; 2:1-11,18-21 For many years, Hannah has a deep longing; she wants a child. This unmet longing becomes her greatest sorrow. Barren, Hannah cries out to God in anguish, giving expression to her deep longing and desire. Hannah's … [Read more...] about Praying with Desire – Hannah

Reflect on Hagar’s story: Genesis 16; 21:8-21 A slave, Hagar becomes pregnant by Abram, her master. Mistreated by her jealous mistress, Sarai, Hagar flees to the desert—where God meets her. Telling her she’s not forgotten, God encourages Hagar with a promise that she is destined for … [Read more...] about Praying in the Wilderness – Hagar