Each day, we are faced with choices. One of the hardest lessons I had to learn as a teenager (and truth be told, am still learning today), is that, often, our choices today impact our tomorrow. In this advent season, our attention turns to the Christmas story -- at least, mine does. It is a … Continue reading A choice.

In the year leading up to my first job as a children's minister, I had several interviews with churches all over Texas (and one in Florida. I had so hoped that one would've worked out. But I love my Big Springs crew. . .). One of the questions I hated being asked was, "Where do you … Continue reading . . .a plan. . .

God is good and holy. I am not good or holy. I am a sinner. Jesus became sin. Through his death and resurrection, God declares me as righteous. . . . I am not righteous, but God declares me as righteous. Jesus was not sinful but became sin. Jesus became what I am, so that … Continue reading Righteous?

I don't know if this is still the case, but when I was in high school, everyone signed your yearbook thusly, "Don't change!". It could, but didn't have to, include the following, "For n-e-one" (that's "for anyone" for those of you playing at home). Recently, I've been given advice from a friend that claims just the … Continue reading The lamest advice I’ve ever received

I'm restless.      Questioning.               Seeking. Not questioning my beliefs, but more my place in them. I'm not sure of my place, so I'm holding on the my place of the past. It doesn't jive well anymore. I know there are changes that must be made (mostly just growing up … Continue reading Restlessness

Weary, burdened wanderer, there is rest for thee at the feet of Jesus in His love, so free. Listen to His message, words of life, forever blest. Oh, thou heavy-laden, come to me, come and rest. There is freedom, taste and see. Hear the call, come to me. Run into His arms of grace. Your … Continue reading Come to Me — Lauren Chandler

I saw this on SoulPancake, and just started writing. Hey you. I know it's a weird time right now, and I know you feel unsettled. That's scary. I know you're hurt, and I know that no one else knows. Don't try to go it alone. It's too hard. It's too hard to tear down the walls … Continue reading To my 10-year-old self

1. Breathe2. Never stop singing. 3. Make it about the music, not you. A friend of mine (who is an incredible musician, conductor, and composer. . .yes, it's quite possible she'll read this. I hope she does) sent that to me when I told her about a practice session panic moment I had where I was so … Continue reading Never stop singing