by Charleen Burghardt This is a chaplain story from when I was in the hospital. This man touched my heart, and I think he will touch yours, too. As a chaplain, I visited a man I will call Mr. McIntyre, a freckle-faced, red-haired man in his 30s, dressed in shorts and a t-shirt, not the… Continue reading Grace Gives a Second Chance
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Do You Have Room?
by Charleen Burghardt In Spain, people developed the tradition of celebrating Las Posadas, which later spread to other Spanish-speaking countries. This celebration commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Mexican immigrants introduced Las Posadas to San Antonio, where the community reenacts the journey each year in the downtown plaza. For nine nights, participants… Continue reading Do You Have Room?
The Traditon of Remembering
By Charleen Burghardt Christmas abounds with meaningful and pleasurable traditions interwoven into the fabric of every household. These customs offer predictable rituals, like putting up a Christmas tree or attending a choir cantata. We associate the holidays with all the expected activities that connect us to our families uniquely. We associate the holiday with traditions.… Continue reading The Traditon of Remembering
God Meets Us in Anger
by Charleen Burghardt “God is big enough to handle your anger.” “God is big enough to handle your anger.” When I first heard those words during my chaplain training, they made me reconsider my perspective on anger. Can God meet us in anger? Previously, I thought God would be offended if I told him my… Continue reading God Meets Us in Anger
God is Near the Brokenhearted
by Charleen Burghardt God is near the brokenhearted. I have held on to that promise many times. Before you read further, I have exciting news.! I signed a contract with a publisher to write a devotional for those who have experienced loss. I hope it will comfort those grieving and let them know they are… Continue reading God is Near the Brokenhearted
Living Water
Jesus gives living water to all who are weary.
An Unexpected Second Chance
When life seems hopeless, we get a second chance.
The Tradition of Remembering
by Charleen Burghardt They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer (Psalm 78:35 NIV). Christmas abounds with meaningful and fun traditions interwoven into the fabric of every household. These traditions offer predictable rituals, like putting up a Christmas tree or attending a choir cantata. During my childhood, there was a unique… Continue reading The Tradition of Remembering
All I want for Christmas is a Water Buffalo
Giving a gift that lasts
Do Our Tears Matter?
Tears have physical benefits and can be a way to grieve.