Director's Blog - 07 November 2025

It's November! Where has this year gone?!? Seriously, I just blinked, and suddenly I’m knee-deep in pumpkin spice everything. When I look at the date on this blog, it feels like I just got off a rollercoaster ride that went way too fast. I mean, did someone hit the fast-forward button on my life? Can I get a refund on the last 11 months? Or at least a nap? On the other hand, if I sit back and reflect on all of the events and travels Russ & I had this year, it feels like we’ve lived a lifetime—like we’ve aged 20 years and gained a few gray hairs. I'm not the only one that feels this way, right?

As we gently approach the end of the year, it's completely natural to experience a whirlwind of emotions. You might feel overwhelmed, rushed, thankful, peaceful, or even a bit crazy—perhaps all at once. In times like these, it's important to take a moment for yourself and find a little peace amidst the chaos. To help soothe your thoughts and provide a sense of comfort, I've utilized my computer (with the help of ChatGPT) to help me create a "creative expansion" of Psalm 23. My hope is that it brings you a sense of calm and reassurance during this busy season. I pray that you enjoy this reflection, and that it brings you peace and comfort, as it did to me.

Psalm 23 — A Creative Expansion

1. The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.

You lead me like no one else can. When I wander, You find me; when I strive, You quiet me. In Your care, every hunger finds its home, every longing bows to peace. I do not chase what the world promises, for You are enough — always enough.

2. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.

You invite me to rest when I would rather run. You show me the soft grass of trust, the cool streams of Your Spirit. You quiet the noise that clamors in my mind and whisper, “Be still — this is holy ground.”

3. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

You mend what the world has worn thin. You take my scattered thoughts, my bruised heart, and weave them into wholeness again. You show me where to walk — not for applause, but for purpose. Every step echoes Your name, and Your glory becomes the map beneath my feet.

4. Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Even when the sun hides and shadows stretch long, I am not alone. Your presence walks beside me —steady, unwavering, unafraid. Your correction and Your guidance, they guard me like a heartbeat. Courage rises where fear once lived.

5. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

You set a feast where fear expected famine. Even in conflict, You pour out abundance. Grace drips from my hair, mercy fills my cup to spilling. Those who doubted my peace see the light of Your favor shining on me.

6. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Your goodness is not a guest — it stays. Your mercy does not visit — it abides. Wherever I go, they trace my steps like faithful shadows. And when this journey folds into eternity, I will find myself still at home — in the house of Love that never ends.

Blessings,

Lisa