motivation | encouragement | support
Crysti 
Every December I like to look back at the books that shaped my year. Some come from beloved authors I follow closely, while others were received as recommendations from friends. Each left something behind: a fresh idea, a deeper faith, a spark of joy. Reading has a way of helping me cultivate growth and stay … Read more
Jesus loved. Period. Jesus didn’t exclude or belittle. He cared about all the people on the margins: the poor, the vulnerable, immigrants, the oppressed, and everyone else. When we look closely at Jesus’ life, we see a whole lot of radical. Radical inclusiveness, love, compassion, and so much more. We can strive to be radical … Read more
A dear friend gifted me The Ministry of Ordinary Places by Shannan Martin, and it’s absolutely delightful. Reading it feels like you’re sitting down with Shannan with cocoa and talking about life. What is important? What have we learned? How can we do better? How can we laugh at ourselves? It’s full of wisdom, sweetness, … Read more
A dear friend introduced me to author Laura Frantz many years ago. Her books are meticulously researched and offer a captivating blend of history, romance, and faith. I’d like to share a little bit about her and highlight several of her books. I highly recommend them all! Who is author Laura Frantz? Laura Frantz, a … Read more
The holidays are a time to gather with loved ones for light, food, and community. While holiday traditions look different around the world, they all celebrate joy, hope, and connection. Let’s explore some fascinating holiday customs! Global holiday traditions Germany: Advent calendars and Christmas markets Advent calendars began in Germany in the early 1800s. I … Read more
Fall has a way of slowing us down before the holiday rush. The days grow shorter, the air turns crisp, and we begin to reflect on the year that’s passing. Gratitude practices become a grounding rhythm, reminding us of God’s presence in our lives and helping us notice the everyday gifts we might otherwise miss. … Read more
Advent is a season of waiting, watching, and wonder. We often turn to familiar scriptures and traditions, but this year, I wanted to invite us to look in different places: along the edges, in overlooked moments, and in the spaces where God’s presence quietly shines. In this four-week Advent study, Light in the Margins, we’ll … Read more
Are you looking for gift ideas that showcase your care and attention without breaking the bank? If we’re not intentional, it’s easy for holiday gifts to slide into more and more expensive territory, and still it can be difficult to know if it’s exactly right for the recipient. When it comes down to it, the … Read more
Here I offer a short devotional based on Philippians 4:8. It would be perfect to share with a small group or committee, or to use for your personal reflection. I love Philippians 4:8. It’s a steady reminder about where our focus belongs. As a rule, it’s best for our focus to be on good things. … Read more
I’ve just finished The Room on Rue Amélie by Kristin Harmel, and I offer an enthusiastic five stars! Set primarily in Paris during the second world war, it’s a beautiful story of courage and love. I learned so much about the French Resistance and their heroic efforts to help downed RAF pilots escape. A riveting … Read more