An Almanac of Grace

A friend recently shared how much she has enjoyed listening to MasterClass podcasts, specifically deep dives in medieval literature and Arthurian legend. Another friend is looking forward to a course this fall in Catholic thought in literature. To look back on various perspectives of history and philosophy is something that interests many of us. To listen to others’ stories of life and experience and learn from them is a gift of opportunity. 

I am grateful for the ministry of Grow Christians as it is a master class in parenting (and thereby grace). While yes, we market these posts as growing Christian children, so much, if not all of the wisdom offered is relevant to the privilege of participation in the development of any child, or any grown-up for that matter. Stories of sunshine, nourishment, grounding, toil, and growth have lit up our screens for a decade.

The spirit of the writing on this blog over the years has sown seeds that have produced beautiful fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control emanate from these posts and the screens we read them on. Familiar garden variety, eh? 

And remember, this gardening work comes with apprentices. Little gardeners follow in our footsteps and learn the art of cultivation from our ways. Another generation tilling away in their schools and on their teams and in their ensembles and bands.

As a reader, I have found value in reading about traditions and labors different from my own so that I may learn and understand. As an author who is beyond grateful to have been able to contribute, I have appreciated being able to look back at posts and see my own journey of parenting and faith and notice what has been consistent and where I have learned a new or better way. 

As this ministry comes to a static conclusion, I urge us all to continue to look back at posts, as in an almanac, and continue to look around our communities for where there are stories to hear and tell and wisdom to soak up and share.