Lent is not about giving something up

My spiritual director, Ruth, sent me a message yesterday. “Dawna, someone brought to my attention (and you may have seen this also) that the word Lent is in the word Valentine. I’m forwarding another opportunity for a daily devotional during Lent.” Yesterday, I read the introduction to the suggested 40 day devotional. I prayed and…

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When you can’t see what’s ahead

When I drive at night, my headlights only allow me to see about sixty feet ahead. When I drive in the snow and fog, there are times when I can barely make out the front of my car. Many times, that’s how it is journeying with God—He only allows us to glimpse so far ahead.…

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Number my days

January is my birthday month. Today, I’m reflecting on Psalm 90:12 (NIV):  “Teach us to number our days,  that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” I think about the time I’ve already lived. On Sunday, it will be 19,710 days.  That number surprises me. It in itself, doesn’t seem very large, but when I…

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A new name

At an animal shelter, we looked through the glass windows studying the names and faces. Each cubical reflected affectionate looks silently screaming, Choose me, PLEASE! Some dogs had stories, others had no known background. Our gaze met with blue eyes. I chuckled at the sight of him. “Is he a little cross-eyed? He looks like Kevin from the…

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Free to Receive Conference -Join us!

Purchase your ticket, spread the word, bring her along, and get ready to unleash your inner strength at Free to Receive – where you are free to be you! REGISTRATION CLOSES OCTOBER 20TH! MC: The fabulous and witty, Ms. Shannon White! Speakers: Sally Smith, Speaker and Encourager Dawna Hetzler, Author and Speaker Ruth Zschoche, Spiritual Director…

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When you don’t know what to do

I was texting with my spiritual director about not knowing what to do in a particular situation. She suggested I make a list of pros and cons. This morning, I listed the “why I should” and the “why I shouldn’t.” I typically don’t let a list lead me, rather my intuition. But seeing all the…

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Content

Each of us, moment by moment, stand in the unknown.  The unrevealed future makes room for worry, anxiety and fear. I write in my journal, drawing hearts around my questions.   Will I maintain good health as I age? How much time is left with my old husky boy? Will the economy make a “soft…

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A doctor versus a physician

Like a path that’s been destroyed by floodwaters, you can’t bridge doctor and physician. A doctor has a parochial mindset. It’s a checking of corporate boxes and the notation that only one way works for all. A physician on the other hand, shows up with her black bag and pulls out unique solutions specific to…

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Tend

I was listening to Lectio 365 which is an app that shares a daily devotion in the morning and evening.  I’ve been journeying with Pete Greig, Pastor and founder of Lectio 365, who’s on a three-week pilgrimage through Scotland.  This week, Pastor Greig read from Genesis where God created man, put him in the Garden…

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Deeper

I’ve been taking a sabbatical day once a month since January.   My June adventure took me to Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. I was excited until the day I woke up. It was raining. Wind, cold, mixed with some hail. Is it really June in Colorado? I’d hoped that God would change His mind about…

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