I debated accepting. After all, it was only ten minutes. Was it really worth the drive? As I thought about the invitation to drive to a small town church, I heard a voice reminding me: “Didn’t you ask me to expand your speaking opportunities this year? Maybe it’s more about making connections than speaking.” So, … More Nothing by chance
I’ve been working my way through Malcolm Muggeridge’s book, Jesus Rediscovered. I can’t read such works fast, as I have to chew on his words slowly, making sure I understand where he’s coming from and what he wants to say. Unlike modern books, each page is full of words, not white space, so I find myself … More Living a displaced life
History is full of well-known names, many times not because of something they did or accomplished, but because their name is on a physical place or building: Alexandria Library, Marshall Islands, JFK International Airport, Martin Luther King, Jr, Drive, Louis Armstrong Stadium, etc. How many children can tell you anything about the person behind the … More Naming Rights
It has been the kind of weekend where I’ve just sat and been in awe of what God is doing. As far as the world goes, it’s nothing spectacular or news-worthy, and even on the Kingdom scale, I’m not sure that it would rank that high. Yet, on a personal level for a small group … More Sitting Back in Wonder
My husband used to play a game with groups when he was speaking. He would have them say a word — any word, that came to mind, and he would build a bridge to the Gospel. He didn’t just have a gift, he practiced a lot! I miss hearing from him the stories of those … More The Bridge Builder
Tonight I looked at a stage where I stood, almost three years ago to the day, speaking to a group of women about how to reach Muslim women for Christ. I remember being nervous, because Raouf was with me — and not speaking — and I was always a bit intimidated by his presence. However, … More Two Timothies
Written: Oct. 8, 2016 I had lunch today with my friend, Vicky, who has also lost her dear husband this year. We understand each other and can talk honestly about our feelings. She gave me some of her husband’s sermons to pass on to Pastor Maged, but I had to sneak a peak first, because … More A Colorful Testimony
Written: June 9, 2016 His question was simple: Where will I go when I die? A simple question, but one with huge implications for his life, because he could not find an answer — not in Islam, not from his imam, not from his family. Because of this, he was not at peace, but spent … More An Answer Found
Written March 31, 2016 This poem/prayer was placed just before my by-line in the Mission Mosaic Magazine this month. When I read it this morning, I said, “Yes, Lord…this is my prayer.” Once again, I’m so thankful for those who are sensitive to the Spirit’s leading and act on it. May this be your prayer … More A Well-Placed Poem
Today, the Arabic Baptist Church hosted a memorial service to mark the 1-year anniversary of my husband’s death. The church was full of people who may not have known Raouf for more than 5 or 6 years, but who were touched by this man of God. As my sons and I listened to one after … More Words of Comfort and Love