Corrie ten Boom, the first female watchmaker in Holland, risked everything to hide Jews during WWII, saving hundreds before being imprisoned at Ravensbrück. Enduring loss and suffering, she discovered the power of forgiveness, even toward her captors, later traveling the world to share Christ’s message of hope, love, and grace.

In moments of chaos, even Jesus withdrew to pray. As a new father, I discovered my son didn’t always need fixing—he needed help finding his center. Like him, we too need to return to the Father’s presence, where rest, peace, and calm can be found.

Hiking to Strawberry Lake reminded me of Ecclesiastes 4:9: “Two are better than one.” Life is sweeter, lighter, and richer when shared. Whether through marriage, friendship, or community, God’s design is companionship. Even small moments—like picking huckleberries—become grace-filled memories when lived together.

God’s provision often comes in unexpected ways—a quail on our bed, a trout at our feet, a raven in a coop. Each encounter whispered the same truth: “I see you. I will provide.” In weakness and uncertainty, His peace reminded us that He is always enough.

What if hopelessness isn’t just a symptom of depression, but its root? Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” I lived with that kind of sickness for years—searching, aching, doubting. But Romans 15:13 reminded me that God is not just the giver of hope—He is hope. When we trust Him, He fills us with peace, joy, and the strength to hope again.

God delights in those who trust His unfailing love—even when surrender feels like loss. Letting go of our children isn't easy, but His presence meets us in the release. He is faithful, even when we’re afraid. He carries what we can’t hold. And in that, He delights in us.

Returning to the Psalms has opened my eyes to the beauty of God’s law, not as a list of rules, but as a loving guide to a full and joyful life. What once felt restrictive now feels like an invitation into freedom, rest, and wholeness. Following Jesus isn’t about earning rewards; it’s about learning to live well.