What do you believe God's face looks like when He looks at you? Really think about that, because the God of Scripture is not standing at a distance, tolerating you. He is not waiting for you to get everything right, and He is not reluctant to be with you.

Last week, we talked about noticing what we are steeping in and how whatever holds our attention slowly shapes us. Remembering God’s goodness helps us turn our attention back to who He is.

Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to remember the painful things than the goodness of God?

That question has been following me around for months.

This week, as I was journaling, I found myself reflecting on the story of the prodigal son. It's a familiar story, one I've read many times over the years. But this time, one phrase seemed to jump off the page:

"While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son..." (Luke 15:20)

There are moments when the noise of life grows so loud we forget that God is still speaking. We feel pulled in a dozen directions, longing to slow down but unsure how.

Jesus understood this tension in the human heart. In Matthew 11, He offers an invitation that feels almost too good to be true.

Every December, my heart goes back to the song Joy to the World:

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room.”

These few sentences carry the whole message of Christmas.

Room for Jesus.
Room for His presence.
Room for joy that doesn’t depend on circumstances.
Room for light that breaks through the noise.

Every December, my heart goes back to the song Joy to the World:

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come. Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare Him room.”

These few sentences carry the whole message of Christmas.

Room for Jesus.
Room for His presence.
Room for joy that doesn’t depend on circumstances.
Room for light that breaks through the noise.

Recipes from Our September GATHER: From Jan’s Kitchen to Yours by Donna Sawyer 10/6/25

There’s something about gathering by the lake that feels sacred — the sound of waves, the and the laughter that lingers long after the sun sets. Our September GATHER took place at Jan’s lovely Lake Michigan home, where we spent the evening reflecting on God's truth, creating, and connecting.