One of my favorite Bible stories is that of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb. Her grief still fresh and sharp, a visit to Jesus’ burial site promises a private space to mourn. Yet when Mary arrives, the stone has been rolled away. The perfume still lingers, but the grave is empty, save for a … Continue reading A prayer for Easter
Author: erinstry
This changed the way I thought about hospitality
Credit: Valeria Boltneva on Pexels.com In the two plus years since we’ve lived in our new home, I’ve had a lot of design flops. There was the time we tried an online design service that suggested we order a rustic café table for our bay window. Once unboxed and assembled, the table was noticeably too … Continue reading This changed the way I thought about hospitality
Spring is coming
I’m halfway through Ross Gay’s essay collection, The Book of Delights, which has enlightened my gratitude practice. My practice, which I call “evening pages,” is a spin on creative guru Julia Cameron’s morning pages—three long-hand pages on any topic you want, done first thing in the morning. Instead of every morning, I do this at … Continue reading Spring is coming
Diary of one day
Wednesday, February 20, 2019 5 a.m. ~ The sound of chimes, my iPhone alarm, breaks my dream. My eyes dart open. The bedroom is bathed in darkness. My dog is snuggled up against my husband, who's snoring blissfully on the other side of the bed. I wrestle myself out of bed; the cool air shocks … Continue reading Diary of one day
My call story
Last month I was invited to share my call story with some young leaders in the church. Now, you might be wondering, "What's a call story?" A call story is a phrase pastors and other Christians use to describe how God led them into ministry. Although I have the privilege of bearing witness to others' faith … Continue reading My call story
Fear and great love
"Here is the world. Beautiful and terrible things will happen. Don't be afraid." ―Frederick BuechnerIf we were having coffee right now, I’d tell you the emotion I’ve been battling most lately is fear. Fear is an uncomfortable emotion to harbor: Fear tells us we are weak and insignificant. Fear makes us believe are powerless. Fear … Continue reading Fear and great love
The wonder of one
Jack, today is your first birthday. One year ago your daddy and I were on our way to Lutheran General Hospital so I could give birth to you. (You were in my tummy, but you decided it was time to come out!) At 8:05 p.m., when you finally took your first breath, we cried tears … Continue reading The wonder of one
