The Savior Who Sees
...and summer reading recommendations!
Hi Friend,
While reading the last few chapters of John, I’ve been struck by how Jesus really paused and saw the people in his daily life.
To use words from today’s language, he was mindful of them. Fully present to them and their needs. Yes, of course, he filled our big need for salvation, but he also filled smaller needs:
Washing the disciples’ feet (John 13)
Providing Mary with a home (John 19:26)
Comforter and Guide (John 16:13-15)
Proof of resurrection (John 20)
Breakfast (21:12)
We often think that ministry and loving people must be done in the big things, and those are good. However, as a recent Priscilla Shirer video, tells us ministry is the daily places God has placed us.
This summer, take time to be mindful of the truth that God sees you, even in the small things. Then extend that mindfulness out to others that he places in your path.
Plan
This summer we’re spending time in Psalms 1-13. One chapter a week. In this study, you will discover:
How to stay connected to God in trouble
God’s response to evil
How to morn while having hope
Get this month’s reading plan here.
Podcast
A few years ago, God showed me a different perspective on the crucifixion story. My mind is still reeling. Listen in here for what God taught me that has changed everything.
Patreon
A Bible Study Journal is now available as requested! On Patreon we also meet online on the 3rd Tuesday of each month to pray for each other and discuss the month’s Bible study reading. For as little as $5 a month, you can download the “Summer in the Psalms Bible Study Journal,” join the live study, and listen to the recording if you don’t have time to make the live event. This is my favorite hour online each month as I spend time learning and growing with the Over A Cup community of ladies who join us. Learn more here.
Tara’s Treasures
Summer reading resources!!! I’ve read many good books this year by myself and with my kids. Here’s a summer reading list for you. I hope you find some new favorites!
The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton: A Ghost’s Story - the tale is told across a century narrated by a ghost and a 3rd person narrator. One of the best books I’ve ever read! I love how Morton changes voices so well between times and characters.
The Ranger’s Apprentice Series by John Flanagan: A fantastic middle-grade series that follows a teen as he grows from a boy to a man. I love that this book is fantasy, but the main characters gain their skills through hard work.
The Wingfeather Chronicles by Andrew Peterson: A young reader fantasy series. This one is written by a Christian author but has no “preaching” in it. Just fantastic writing that draws you into the story of the three siblings.
It Wasn’t Roaring It Was Weeping by Lisa Jo Baker: Baker is one of my favorite authors/podcasters. She’s written several memoirs about being a young mom and middle-aged. However, this memoir returns to her abusive childhood and walks the reader through Baker’s healing while encouraging our own.
Let’s Pray…
Father, thank you for all the ways you see us daily. Please open our eyes, make us aware of those times, and allow your love to flow through us into others. Help us to be present where we are this summer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Grace and Peace,
Tara L. Cole