Amy E Smith

There is a sacred strength God builds in us when we choose to gather with fellow believers. For many of us, our quiet time with the Lord is familiar—a cherished rhythm of prayer, Scripture, and stillness. But something different happens when we open God’s living Word together . The Lord uses the voices, wisdom, and stories of others to sharpen us, comfort us, and send us back into the world as brighter lights for Christ. Over the last few months, I’ve experienced this firsthand. Sitting among...

From October through December, I am in my element. By September, my house already looks like a fall wonderland—pumpkins everywhere. As soon as Thanksgiving passes, the Christmas trees go up: one big one, plus mini trees tucked into corners all around the house. And yes, I even play Christmas music year-round. My husband and kids will confirm: “Silent Night” is absolutely the soundtrack of a random July morning. There’s something magical about the holidays. But recently, the Lord reminded me...

As summer fades into fall, signs of change are all around—the air feels cooler, leaves turn to rich shades of orange and red, and store...