>Honeysuckle

>The journaling reflections I regularly (if not daily) record are saved on my computer under a file called "Honeysuckle," for the honeysuckle plant outside my office window. There are two windows in my office: a double set on what is roughly the west side (which is behind me when I sit at the computer) and … Continue reading >Honeysuckle

>Becoming Discerning Readers-Exploring

>This is the final entry in my series about "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers."We've defined some terms, discussed why we need to be reforming our perspectives, looked at specific strategies for becoming more discerning readers, and examined basic elements of fiction and some literary techniques. In this post, we'll explore options for learning … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Exploring

>Becoming Discerning Readers-Examining

> This is the fourth entry in my series on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers." Earlier entries have defined some terms, looked at reasons why we need to be reforming our perspectives, and discussed "The Four Rs" of becoming more discerning readers.This entry will examine some of the most basic elements of fiction … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Examining

>Becoming Discerning Readers-Discerning

>This series on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming a Discerning Reader" has defined some terms and looked at reasons why Christians need to be reforming their perspectives on literature. This entry will suggest specifics for becoming more discerning readers.As a lifelong reader with a longtime interest in literature, I've gradually grown in my appreciation for … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Discerning

>Becoming Discerning Readers-Reforming

> Yesterday's post on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers" defined the terms reforming, perspectives, literature, and what is meant by discerning readers.Today's post will deal with the specifics of "Reforming" by first asking: Why do we need to be reforming our perspectives on literature?There are probably many reasons why modern readers need to … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Reforming

>Becoming Discerning Readers-Defining

> On Friday April 23, I spoke to the Covenant Women Bible study group of our church, comprised primarily of young moms, about "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers." Since several other people have expressed an interest in hearing about the subject (in person and online), I will blog through the basic presentation, making … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Defining

>Tears in a Bottle (Psalm 56)

>While repeatedly reading Psalm 56, I always pause at the words of verse 8:You have kept count of my tossings;put my tears in your bottle.Are they not in your book?The beauty of this imagery is almost too much to comprehend. God not only knows how many times I toss and turn when I wake in … Continue reading >Tears in a Bottle (Psalm 56)

>Grandbaby

>Please excuse my recent absence; my husband and I have been busy waiting for and welcoming our fourth grandson: Layton Ryan Sponsler. He was born on Good Friday, April 2, weighing 8 lbs., 2 ozs. and measuring 20 1/2 inches. Grandpa Mathes Layton's parents are proud and happy. Here is their first family portrait.My parents … Continue reading >Grandbaby

>No Salvation in Socialism (Psalm 50)

>Since my last blog (on Psalm 49) some significant things have happened in my life and in our country.I've been experiencing a health struggle and our nation is just beginning what I am convinced will be a major health care reform struggle.Will God use this new socialization as judgment on our nation? It's possible, but … Continue reading >No Salvation in Socialism (Psalm 50)

>Resting in Peace (Psalm 49)

>When I wake in the night and can't get back to sleep, I try to pray God's words back to him by repeating sections of Psalms. But when I woke early this morning, I just couldn't seem to recall very many; my mind was full of family and financial concerns.Finally getting up, I read Psalm … Continue reading >Resting in Peace (Psalm 49)