The Christmas season looks different this year—and forever will. December 16th marks one year since my dad went to be with the Lord, leaving an ache I never imagined. With his passing so close to Christmas, a time once defined by joy and togetherness is now tangled with deep grief. How do you navigate griefContinue reading “Grief and the Holidays: Finding Hope in the Tension”
Author Archives: melissaelsner
Through the Hymns: Christmas Edition – O Come, O Come Emmanuel
The Advent season always brings to mind the quiet beauty of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” Growing up in my Lutheran church, this hymn seemed to set the tone for the entire season. The grand organ’s low, resonant notes created an atmosphere of reverence and hope. The congregation’s voices, united in the hymn’s hauntingly beautifulContinue reading “Through the Hymns: Christmas Edition – O Come, O Come Emmanuel”
God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle?
This post is part of a series exploring popular Christian sayings, examining them through the lens of Scripture to uncover truth and encourage Biblical thinking. At some point, someone may have told you, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” Perhaps it was said during a difficult time, intended to offer comfort andContinue reading “God Won’t Give You More Than You Can Handle?”
Is God About to do Something Big?
This post is part of a series exploring popular Christian sayings, examining them through the lens of Scripture to uncover Truth and encourage Biblical thinking. If you’ve been part of Christian circles for any length of time, you’ve probably heard this phrase: If the devil has been attacking you lately, it means God is aboutContinue reading “Is God About to do Something Big?”
The Danger of Personalizing Scripture: It’s Not About Us, It’s About God
Years ago, when I was in a college church group, one of the leaders encouraged us to personalize scripture by inserting our names into the verses. The idea was that this would make the Bible feel more relevant, helping us embrace the message. I loved it – I even printed out a verse with myContinue reading “The Danger of Personalizing Scripture: It’s Not About Us, It’s About God”