tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21199508333535579692012-03-05T15:37:33.738-05:00making space to connect with God while enjoying my favorite beverage -- a rich cup of coffee!corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.comBlogger681100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-60824207639801696312011-12-31T11:25:00.001-05:002012-03-03T10:32:00.409-05:00

As I turn the page to a New Year, it feels fitting for a time of reflection both filled with confession and gratitude.   Philip Yancey in his book, Prayer, says this about confession... Consider again the act of repentance. Confessing my sins before God communicates something God already knows. Yet somehow the act of confession binds the relationship and allows a closeness that could not

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-77581371082711201292011-08-29T10:12:00.004-04:002012-03-03T10:19:22.015-05:00

If you've been following this BLOG you know we've been encouraging you to engage in a variety of spiritual practices or disciplines because we know they work. When we engage in spiritual practices our souls are changed. When we engage in spiritual practices we spend time with God and become more attentive to Him. When we engage in spiritual practices our eyes become more aware of His

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-80902354530586751552011-08-14T13:39:00.003-04:002012-03-05T15:35:52.355-05:00

Life offers an amazing assortment of moments filled with potential beyond our comprehension. I think way too often we only see a small portion of what is at stake. Here's what I mean. As I make time to share a meal with my family do I realize the potential of what could transpire as we eat together? Could it be as we share our BEST and WORST of the day, we get to see a glimpse of a dream

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-68871320425475018462011-07-31T11:13:00.001-04:002011-08-29T09:36:14.949-04:00

My flowers are showing the impact of long hot summer days. What you see is not necessarily neglect but rather the effects of not adjusting and adapting my care in relation to the harsh realities of summer. Yes, I've been giving them a drink of water "almost" everyday like I was in the Spring and early Summer. However, I have not compensated for the increase in the heat index nor the decrease

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-88842287409448513662011-06-06T08:29:00.005-04:002011-06-06T09:24:50.824-04:00

Yesterday, we celebrated our daughter's high school graduation. Our hearts were delighted as family and friends filled our home helping us mark this moment. I am deeply grateful for those women and men who have loved our daughter, Chelsea, well over the years. We smiled, laughed and even shed a tear or two as we recounted the various stories and memories of a beautiful blond little girl!

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-51334839854667120202011-03-20T15:51:00.017-04:002011-03-20T16:02:39.775-04:00

My sister-in-law is one of the most generous people I know. She expresses her love most often by being a giver of gifts as she searches for treasures and gives them away. A few years ago, she and I were hanging out, browsing around our local TJ Maxx when I came upon some drinking glasses with bees etched around the top. I loved them! They reminded me of the book I had just finished by Sue

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-12546050029028309802011-02-05T17:00:00.000-05:002011-02-05T16:47:47.992-05:00

This song and images SCREAM to the existence of God. It speaks of the VAST creation, the INTRICATE details and the DELICATE balance HE has set into motion. It exhibits the incredible BEAUTY of his handiwork.ENJOY!

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-92146565845412305482011-02-05T16:40:00.000-05:002011-02-05T16:48:19.355-05:00

Sweet Jesus -- My Shepherd and My FriendEntering into David's story with God (especially as recorded in the Psalms), you’ll see David continued to GAIN a greater understanding of BOTH the MAGNITUDE and INTIMATE NATURE of God. He found what we can find -- even in today's world -- a growing knowledge, understanding, and appreciaton of God. Psalm 139:1-4O LORD, you have searched me and you know me

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-55576313075843301812011-02-05T16:18:00.007-05:002011-02-05T16:42:42.986-05:00

This week I've been reading The Good and Beautiful Life and one of our first soul training exercises was PLAY. I know I thought that seemed odd too. Here’s what I've been learning about play… or should I say I've been experiencing as I play. Play is one thing we absolutely cannot control. It unfolds and by its very nature is spontaneous. We take down our defenses and open ourselves up to whatever

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-59196325836360615982011-02-05T15:49:00.012-05:002011-02-05T16:17:00.386-05:00

I’m sitting by the fire noticing the beauty of the falling snow this morning. Our week has been full of sleet, freezing rain and a constant winter storm advisory. For many, the wintry weather forced us to slow down, regroup and re purpose our days. Streets and sidewalks are treacherous causing schools to be closed for days and even colleges to call for the almost unheard of snow recess day. Most

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-68597661816486290132011-01-01T18:30:00.008-05:002011-01-26T07:05:18.287-05:00

Another year has come and gone. Its always a bit odd for me when something comes to an end. Whether I am finishing the last few pages of a journal, trying to squeeze in one more adventure at the end of vacation, or the closing moments of time shared with family and friends there is sadness and joy. Sadness rolls over my soul as the treasured time is coming to an end YET I also feel joy as I am

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-49309411543824986532010-12-09T14:12:00.000-05:002010-12-09T14:12:24.211-05:00

God and I have a history. Over 35 years ago I decided that I wanted to follow Jesus in a tiny, little church in Southwestern Ohio. I'm quite certain that at eight years old, I didn't understand how my faith would be sustained as I continued to grow deeper roots. Jesus had captured my heart and I knew I wanted to give my life to following Him. I'm also quite certain that I don't fully understand

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-86230398716390494472010-10-21T18:52:00.015-04:002010-10-31T14:36:30.014-04:00

We've likely encountered a few detour signs along our way. We've been headed down the road and then realize the route we've chosen to follow to the intended destination is no longer an option.I'm curious -- what's your normal response to detours? I'd guess somewhere between annoyed by the inconvenience to enthusiastic about the potential for discovery. In my case... I'm a girl who might be called

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-47803539759533663072010-09-13T12:59:00.009-04:002010-09-13T13:30:35.954-04:00

I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD , the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you- the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-40712832902134037902010-09-05T07:42:00.000-04:002010-09-05T08:43:27.300-04:00

Just ahead I notice the path goes under the road. There is a large circular opening, filled with darkness. I wasn't sure of where I was or where the tunnel would lead. As I slowly edged closer, I noticed the path outside the tunnel was well worn from the rushing water and from the footprints of other hikers. Many had stood in this place. I wanted to head in, to make my way through. But, it was

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-91877186551315068542010-08-30T10:49:00.008-04:002010-08-30T15:17:15.443-04:00

I come upon two paths at the bottom of the hill. A well-trodden path with a strong, solid footing converges with a dangerous trench that has been carved out from the summer storms and water runoff. The trench is now mostly dry with only hints of the surge of water that has edged away the defining boundary between safe and dangerous. I am struck by the proximity between these two very different

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-52292393788041384562010-08-19T08:29:00.004-04:002010-08-19T09:07:15.126-04:00

Further down the path I begin to ascend walking upon exposed roots. These roots provide almost perfectly spaced stairs allowing my feet to find secure footing as I inch my way up the hill. This is new territory and I am unsure what I may find at the summit. This is definitely different terrain. I've almost reached the end of this path, but notice a yellow item off to the left. My eyes are

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-28254471713881525492010-07-31T09:10:00.014-04:002010-07-31T09:59:24.666-04:00

Yesterday I spent the morning participating in a silent retreat at Fatima Retreat Center in Indianapolis. The grounds were fantastic... in the midst of the urban landscape I found 13 acres of wooded wonder. After a quick introduction and overview of the options available to us, I quickly headed out to see what was beyond the paved parking lot. Not sure where to begin I found a path that lead me

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-23745880771567044882010-07-30T23:48:00.000-04:002010-07-31T10:01:44.454-04:00

On my birthday back in January my mind and heart was anticipating what was ahead. If you look back to that post -- you'll see the questions that were swirling around: Who do I want to be? What do I dream will come true?How do I want to be remembered? How will I spend my time and energy?What mark do I want to leave on the world? I set out with two things on my heart: I wanted to laugh more and

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-12548502341735171482010-07-22T09:22:00.005-04:002010-07-22T09:52:48.994-04:00

I've been wondering lately about what makes a life. Sure, it is the memories we make along the way with our families and our friends. It's the decisions we make and the promises we keep. This year I've officiated both weddings and funerals. I've stood beside a bride and groom -- and felt the anticipation and excitement of what lies ahead as they begin their journey as a married couple. I've also

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-17760553646738308692010-07-12T16:57:00.004-04:002010-07-12T17:11:02.639-04:00

Yesterday, I spent an hour fishing with a "little" friend of mine. What I thought was just an opporunity to visit with my friend, Maggy and her mom was so much more. Off we went headed down the hill to a neighborhood pond with fishing poles and worms in hand. Luckily, Maggy's mom had all the tools we needed included a pair of gloves so we didn't have to touch the fish. She told us that it was

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-921855607179424732010-06-23T16:26:00.007-04:002010-06-23T18:51:24.449-04:00

I've always thought of resting after expending energy -- as a replenishment for what I had just experienced or endured. So, if I took a run then I'd rest once I had finished my run. Or if I had been really busy finishing up a project, I'd work really hard for an extended period of time THEN I'd rest and recooperate. And to some degree that is still true -- however...I've been learning both

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-52692266426308128712010-06-04T22:05:00.005-04:002010-06-04T22:10:35.383-04:00

Adulthood is mostly about getting things done. Past a certain age, our existence is consumed by obligation. So one of the first things to die in adults in playfulness. Remember how much fun you had playing children's board games? This week take time to play. Even if it's just for an hour or half hour. Start slow. Find a park swing or read a fun magazine, or treat yourself to ice

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-18569281554366178662010-06-04T22:00:00.003-04:002010-06-04T22:05:21.896-04:00

ATTENTIVENESSThe devil distracts. God interrupts. And for some reason, we fall prey to the one and grow oblivious to the other. Brother Lawrence found the most simple device for reversing this. In his small, wise book, The Practice of the Presence of God, he speaks about a companionship with Jesus that is without boundary--not in time, or place, or circumstance. Anywhere, everywhere, in

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-20209170600093318132010-05-17T07:01:00.009-04:002010-05-17T07:35:09.130-04:00

This week we're stopping to set our heart right as we "right size" God. The root idea of Sabbath – all living things thrive only by an ample measure of stillness. Stillness like rest, requires a settling of the heart, a calming of the spirit. Sabbath keeping requires two orientations. 1. One is God-ward. 2. The other is time-ward. To keep Sabbath well--both as a day and attitude--we have to think

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-75909790708524504792010-05-17T06:19:00.002-04:002010-06-04T21:59:46.414-04:00

The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. Proverbs 11:24 "That's the irony; those who sanctify time and who give time away--who treat time as a gift and not possession--have time in abundance. Contrariwise, those who guard every minute, resent every interruption, ration every moment, never have enough. They're always late, always behind,

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-33058380633256850022010-05-07T13:26:00.008-04:002010-05-17T07:38:26.384-04:00

Sabbath? a time set aside for rest and restorationSabbath invites us to STOP. In that ceasing, fresh possibilities abound. We can shut our eyes, if we choose—this is one of Sabbath’s gifts, to relax without guilt. But there is also time enough to open our eyes, to learn again Jesus’ command to watch and pray. Mark Buchanan, The Rest of God Sabbath is a a day or time period set aside

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-37958394930672676432010-04-25T14:30:00.000-04:002010-04-26T14:37:00.569-04:00

Katie, a young friend of mine, wrote these three words on a ceramic plate she designed... Love without Fear I wonder about the combination of these three words. I wonder about the power of loving and living this way. Our longing to experience this type of love, this way of life is planted deep within our souls. Although we will never fully experience it on earth -- we sometimes within some

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-88754720610837483042010-03-16T07:53:00.004-04:002010-03-16T08:04:38.728-04:00

Using the devotional reading outline below, read and respond the following verse:Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from the old. Psalm 25:4-6 TNIVEnjoy spending time with God as you savor the words of this Psalm.

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-84948096698486278932010-03-12T07:08:00.007-05:002010-03-12T15:32:45.693-05:00

Read the following passage using the Lectio Divina practice noted above. Here's a quick reminder to follow:1. SILENCIO: Begin by quieting your heart and allowing yourself to become aware of God's presence. 2. LECTIO: Read the passage of scripture slowly and out loud. Listening for a word or phrase. Write down the word or phrase that stands out to you.3. MEDITATIO: Read the passage a second time

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-2298895892480190952010-03-11T07:16:00.005-05:002010-03-12T07:29:04.536-05:00

Journaling is a way of connecting with God as you become more aware and attentive to Him. Consider these words as you explore journaling as a spiritual practice:OPEN my eyes so I can see what YOU show me of YOUR miracle-wonders. Psalm 119:18 The MessageThere are lots of different approaches to journaling. But remember our purposes are about cultivating a deeper relationship with God as we grow

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-66144894305405905332010-03-02T11:10:00.001-05:002010-03-11T11:31:33.502-05:00

Does the idea of journaling sound sweet or just give you sweaty palms?SCROLL DOWN & ADD YOUR COMMENT AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST BY CLICKING ON comments below!Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders.Psalm 119:18 The MessageJournaling is a way of;paying attention to our lives, reflecting on God's presence and guidance, and creating an ongoing record of our soul's journey

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-70351565294057544232010-03-01T08:14:00.000-05:002010-03-11T11:27:14.142-05:00

I love the beach. Everything about it. The smell of the salty air. The soothing sounds of the surf. The softness of the sand. The respite I experience while meandering around the shore. Although my soul feels peace and deeply connected with God while I'm there, I must fight against the idea that there is external positional peace. My peace doesn't come from where I am. Gerald Locklin pens these

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-81570041645933090492010-02-25T16:12:00.000-05:002010-03-11T11:29:41.199-05:00

Mindy Caliguire speaks to the use of journaling as a key spiritual practice. In this video, Mindy speaks to the benefits of journaling as a means of solving problems. For me, journaling is one way I check in with the state of my soul. It helps me take stock of where I am, what I am thinking, what I am feeling, and reminds me of where I want to be headed and mostly of who I want to be.

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-55880475909567952692010-02-03T14:28:00.006-05:002010-02-03T14:52:29.479-05:00

What does a canary have to do with the health of your soul? Great question. One of the earliest systems for coal miners to detect poisonous gas included these little creatures. The system was rather low-tech and not very animal friendly, sorry. Keep in mind, canaries are very sensitive to carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases that can be found in a mine. Here's how it worked. Coal miners

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-85323070135045041332010-01-25T18:13:00.007-05:002010-01-25T18:28:09.736-05:00

Today, I've been around 16,425 days(not counting leap years). Besides being the beginning of a new decade and now it's my birthday... I'm in one of those pondering moods where my mind wanders around asking questions. Who do I want to be? What do I dream will come true?How do I want to be remembered? How will I spend my time and energy?What mark do I want to leave on the world? For now, I am

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-31845802152364621812010-01-18T12:17:00.008-05:002010-01-18T13:03:10.092-05:00

Well, today is the day. I am digging into the hallway closet. The one that gathers all the things that we don't want to carry upstairs to our bedrooms or downstairs to the basement. Those things that we are not quite sure can be thrown away. Those things that we just can't quite let go of. As I sorted through the contents, I found evidence of our life. Pictures I had be given by my mother of

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-81336157164797325372010-01-13T08:21:00.001-05:002010-01-18T13:23:04.382-05:00

good morning! thanks god for the beauty surrounding us. nice choice of blue sky this morning with the compliment of the orange sunrise and wispy clouds. nicely done and thanks!

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-49594575172011119012010-01-04T08:15:00.004-05:002010-01-04T08:29:18.427-05:00

Through prayer, scripture reading, worship and other spiritual disciplines, ordinary humans who seek to know God and his desires are opening themselves to the story of God being carried forward in and through them. As we step into 2010...How will you live with intention? Will you set aside time to be with God, to listen to his heart, to respond to his promptings? Will you invite others into your

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-83188482755941395822009-10-16T09:26:00.009-04:002009-10-16T11:45:57.038-04:00

Whether I am reading a book, watching a movie, or listening to someone share -- I absolutely love a great story. I love watching the plot develop and I especially love the possibilities surrounding each new beginning. I hate endings. Closing the page of a book I've loved, the screen fading to black and the credits rolling after I've enjoyed a good movie, and a chapter in my life coming to a

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-46309870360392766792009-09-12T08:54:00.005-04:002009-09-18T13:36:32.531-04:00

Why is it so hard for us to create space in our life to be with God? Maybe it is because we not sure what to do with the time we've set aside or space we've created. Maybe it is because we choose to run around allowing the urgency of our to-do list to consume every minute of our day. Maybe it is because our souls and minds have become so distracted. Unfortunately, all of these can be true of

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-49860315617600517452009-09-04T07:47:00.004-04:002009-09-04T08:06:40.518-04:00

I've been reading The Attentive Life -- it's our September Bagels & Books selection that I am responsible for facilitating the discussion. It's ironic that I've had to crunch in a chapter here and there - among all the other things in my life. Feeling pressure to finish the book yet knowing that I can't be attentive in a rush. There is much to be considered, learned, and mostly savored in this

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-59356132362282500112009-09-04T07:00:00.000-04:002009-09-04T08:42:46.248-04:00

Check out this short interview with author of The Attentive Life, Leighton Ford

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-55401307111830774072009-07-09T10:02:00.009-04:002009-07-09T10:34:06.135-04:00

God's seems to be stretching my frame of reference these days. Okay, maybe he does everyday, the only difference is some days I actually notice.You've got to check out Get Compelled, the blog created by our outreach team here at Grace. Inside this blog, you'll read about amazing stories of ordinary people paying attention to God moving in and through them. Plus, you'll find a whole new vantage

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-84441153847442467882009-06-17T13:42:00.010-04:002009-06-17T13:58:15.448-04:00

I hope your making time for those you love the most this summer. Often I walk into summer with big dreams of how I will spend my time and who I am going to be with... then way too often it seems August is upon us and I've barely scratched the surface of my big dreams. How about you?What were you most hoping for this summer?What are you doing to reach toward those hopes?For me, I began the summer

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-71420391847777964352009-06-12T14:59:00.014-04:002009-06-12T15:52:03.195-04:00

I don't know about you, but I have a great need and desire to hear from God. I am thankful God is a God of communication and words. Deep inside us, he has planted the desire to know him. And in respone to our need for God, he has chosen to speak to us through the words and images we find in the Bible and through the promptings of his spirit. Fortunately, as we read and reflect on Scripture, we

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-7209601181477475912009-06-12T14:00:00.000-04:002009-06-12T16:14:46.571-04:00

Here are a few suggestions for engaging with God through scripture. Try and different method each day for the next week. I am confident you'll find God speaking to you!The Artist MethodRead a passage of scripture, considering these three questions as you read.What speaks to my heart? Draw a heart beside the word that speaks to your heart.What new thought or idea comes to me? Draw a light bulb

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-27344333888011878482009-03-03T16:35:00.006-05:002009-03-03T17:04:58.959-05:00

I have a fond attachment to my Bible. I doubt anyone would want it. It's the one with the scuffed blue cover, torn inside pockets, sections nearly falling out, varied colors of highlighting and personal notes strewn throughout the pages. I purchased this Bible back in the early 80s while I was in high school. It’s pretty basic. It is a NIV (New International Version) with a mini concordance in

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-42436019898090659882009-03-02T15:12:00.006-05:002009-03-02T15:23:55.938-05:00

Bible 101—some helps for choosing a Bible. Reading the Bible – sounds simple enough! Warning – there are dozens to choose from! Check them out. Get familiar with a few different translations of Scripture. You can easily do this online at http://www.biblegateway.com/ Check out the different translations by looking up Psalm 23. Read them and see which style you most perfer.Translations – New Living

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-72088395437526017772009-02-17T09:01:00.005-05:002009-02-17T09:11:32.292-05:00

This is God's love letter to you. watch read listen

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-16031762065886282292009-02-17T08:49:00.006-05:002009-02-17T09:12:52.872-05:00

But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless…. You hear, O Lord, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is of the earth, may terrify no more. Psalm 10:14, 17-18Sing to God, sing praise to

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-81567934385161967312009-01-28T07:36:00.017-05:002009-01-28T08:21:04.095-05:00

All of You is more than enough for all of meFor every thirst and every needYou satisfy me with Your loveAnd all I have in You is more than enoughYou are my supplyMy breath of lifeAnd still more awesome than I knowYou are my reward worth living forAnd still more awesome than I know... listen to Chris Tomlin's EnoughProclaim the power of God, whose majesty is over Israel, whose power is in the

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-56362043744345073762009-01-12T18:36:00.010-05:002009-01-12T18:56:45.629-05:00

As you read the Bible you’ll find a variety of descriptions and metaphors for God.One of the metaphors you’ll notice is that of “shepherd.” Most of us are familiar with Psalm 23 which begins with “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want….”We’d love to invite you to think about God as your shepherd. Although it’s a stretch to imagine the full significance of this metaphor (since we

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-18175691397371009112009-01-09T10:33:00.002-05:002009-01-08T15:39:57.265-05:00

As the new year begins, we find many are facing economic crisis and if not crisis at least concern. It seems life as we know it is changing all around us. These are uncertain times. We don't know what will come to pass in the days and months ahead. YET... {I love that word} YET adverb inspite of everythingused to stress that it remains possible that something will happen or that you are still

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-80976078097667270422009-01-08T09:34:00.012-05:002009-01-09T14:15:06.707-05:00

I hesitate when I begin talking about the different attributes of God. Why? Because every time I begin to look at one, I find that I have to look at another, and another, and another. You just can't pick and choose. You can't cut and paste those things you'll like and disregard those things you don't understand or aren't sure you like. Think in terms of photography.I have a few photographs of our

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-65475852805446597882009-01-07T17:40:00.019-05:002009-01-08T10:46:57.160-05:00

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end." Revelation 21:6Father God,You've always existed and You always will...I praise You because You are eternal and everlasting; Your presence always there. Today, I felt a deep sense that You were present with me when I was a child playing alone even though I was not aware of You at the time. It seems strange to have this early childhood

janhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17563973377913656659noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-20963780418565690362008-09-22T12:21:00.012-04:002008-09-22T13:32:58.910-04:00

I've been thinking lately about how I live my life. It all began to surface when I was listening to Bill Hybels at the Leadership Summit in August. He was talking about leadership axioms. If you're looking for some ideas and insight in leadership, you might want to check out Hybels' leadership book called, axiom.axiom (ăk'sē-əm)a word or phrase that particularpeople use in particular situations;

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-52606812765761427402008-09-02T19:23:00.006-04:002008-09-02T21:19:41.844-04:00

It seems everywhere we turn we are being asked to be part of small group, serve on a team, or get involved in a worthy cause. Like most of you, I’ve seen and experienced the best and worst of community and groups. Yet, my heart and soul has been transformed in ways I would have never expected as a result stepping into community or being part of a team. Even though I love a solo challenge -- I am

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-76306893772305380402008-08-13T10:06:00.001-04:002008-08-15T12:22:18.531-04:00

I've been thinking about the word practice today. You see part of my story is being a high school and college athlete. As a result, I am well acquainted with practice. I played volleyball and just like in any other sport or athletic endeavor -- athletes practice in a gym or field without any spectators or fans a whole lot more than they play in a game.Practice is part of practically everyday and

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-16241246924969968472008-07-24T11:00:00.001-04:002008-07-23T11:05:42.749-04:00

Spiritual Practices go beyond the work of God in our own lives. Our faith requires us to follow and live our beliefs. We participate in God's work as we live in a way that is representative of God's heart and his desire for our world. Think of it this way, expressive spiritual practices are activities or ways we express our faith, hope and love in our world.Essence of the PracticeHere is a list

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-66983234710641308322008-07-02T16:21:00.006-04:002008-07-03T16:33:14.025-04:00

Consider carefully what you hear. Mark 4:24I want to be a lifelong learner.I want to be open to God's promptings and the movement of the Holy Spirit in my life.I want to listen, hear and respond. -- well, most of the time. Let me explain.Just yesterday one of my friends and team members in ministry left a message with regard to a meeting our team had early that day. I usually love hearing from

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-27434562282068319182008-06-05T16:49:00.009-04:002008-06-05T17:08:02.269-04:00

I love to read. I enjoy hearing what others are thinking and processing. I go through spurts of reading fiction and honestly I don't read very much christian fiction. BUT, a few years ago I read a book called Room of Marvels and just recently picked up a copy of the book, The Shack. Both books are fiction. Both books press in on really hard subjects of pain and loss. Both books profoundly

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-53609022843306881002008-06-05T16:38:00.006-04:002008-06-05T17:06:30.956-04:00

Interesting how our childhood experiences have a significant impact on our view of God and our world. After thinking about the practice of gratitude, I realized how much my upbringing has framed my thoughts and behavior.What kind of picture of God do you recall growing up with? How has this picture impacted your faith over the years? How has this picture changed?

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-49432058731438339652008-06-02T10:22:00.015-04:002008-06-05T17:06:48.477-04:00

Do you see a cup as half empty or half full? Does it depend on who is holding the cup?Many research studies and articles have been written about temperament and personality traits. They show that people have different natural inclinations. Think about it right now. I bet you can make a list of people in your life who always seem to see the positive side of things. Conversely, I bet you can make a

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-16288456153156246722008-05-27T10:38:00.001-04:002008-05-27T10:40:03.938-04:00

Here at Grace Community Church we just finished a four week series entitled Shaking the System. If you missed any of these -- you can listen online at www.gracecc.org/sermons.htmlHow did this weekend series stir you?What questions or concerns did it raise in your heart and mind?This past week Dave Rod gave us some ideas for personal engagement -- have you or are you planning to take any steps to

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-67959160439003121042008-05-23T11:30:00.010-04:002011-01-23T18:12:05.219-05:00

Offering a simple prayer with each breath can be help remind us of our connection with God. With each breath we can be reminded "for in him we live and move and exist" (Acts 17:28).Although it's rather simple, it requires a connection between the unconscious act of breathing and a conscious expression to God.A Bit of HistoryBreath prayer or "prayer of the heart" has been practiced in the church

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-89574193639662125002008-05-21T16:18:00.003-04:002008-05-24T17:16:54.631-04:00

The older I get the more I realize that atrophy is a natural occurrence in our world and occurs in my own life.at·ro·phy /ˈætrəfi/ uh-troh-fee-uha wasting away of the body or of an organ or part, as from defectivenutrition or nerve damagedegeneration, decline, or decrease, as from disuseto affect with or undergo atrophy -- wither, deteriorate, or waste away www.dictionary.reference.comThink about

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2119950833353557969.post-16376184785995176992008-05-19T12:53:00.001-04:002008-05-23T11:17:49.894-04:00

Using the word friends sounds a bit familiar for an on line conversation. Or should I end that sentence with a question mark? I am a bit hesitant yet hopeful.I am hopeful that this on-line conversation provides space for us to grow together and just maybe call each other friend along the way. You see I believe that growth is best done when we travel together. So I'm inviting you to travel with me

corinnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02903526103537780587noreply@blogger.com0