Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Anita Mathias: Dreaming Beneath the Spires Anita Mathias's Blog on Faith and Art ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://anitamathias.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [The Spirit Helps Us Speak Creative Words of Energy and Life](https://anitamathias.com/2023/06/18/the-spirit-helps-us-speak-creative-words-of-energy-and-life/) - Words set t. whole course of one's life on fire, James says. We need God's spirit to control us, giving us a new heart, so our words bring light not destruction - [At the Cross, God Forgives Us Completely](https://anitamathias.com/2026/04/29/gods-complete-forgiveness/) - for the sins of the world-left us an inheritance: God’s forgiveness of all who surrender their lives to him. He left us his Spirit who pours the love of God into us. We are now grafted into the vine of Father, Son, Spirit, their energy makes us fruitful, and our prayers, which flow with their good purposes are amazingly heard - [Using God’s Gift of Our Talents: A Path to Joy and Abundance](https://anitamathias.com/2025/11/05/using-gods-gift-of-our-talents-a-path-to-joy-and-abundance/) - God lavishes his gifts on us; happiness pivots on how we use them! While neglected gifts wither, talents used bring abundance, tilting our trajectory toward joy - [The Kingdom of God is Here Already, Yet Not Yet Here](https://anitamathias.com/2025/04/08/the-kingdom-of-god-is-here-already-yet-not-yet-here-2/) - The Kingdom of God is here. The Spirit fills us with its peace and joy & wisdom-though in thisworld, with sin deep within us & around us, its fullness lingers. - [Views from our Garden: From the Rising of the Sun to its Setting, let the Lord be Praised](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/12/views-from-our-garden-from-the-rising-of-the-sun-to-its-setting-let-the-lord-be-praised/) - The Garden of our Lives It's seed-planting season, and we've started our basil, parsley and coriander indoors. There's a kind of inevitability to it--plant a basil seed, get basil; plant a sunflower seed, well, get sunflowers. When we look at the garden of our lives, our life as it is, with its components of family, - [All Those Who Exalt Themselves Will Be Humbled & the Humble Will Be Exalted](https://anitamathias.com/2024/11/07/all-those-who-exalt-themselves-will-be-humbled-the-humble-will-be-exalted/) - Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, Christ says, while the humble will be exalted. For we are created to love, to grow and to bless, not to chase glory. - [Christ's Great Golden Triad to Guide Our Actions and Decisions](https://anitamathias.com/2024/04/01/christs-great-golden-triad-to-guide-our-lives-and-decisions/) - The great &first commandment, Christ says, is to love God. The second is like the first–to treat others as we wish to be treated. Faith hangs on these two loves - [How Jesus Dealt With Hostility and Enemies](https://anitamathias.com/2024/02/20/how-jesus-dealt-with-hostility-and-enemies/) - Jesus, frequently challenged by his enemies, responds with uncanny, cool-headed wisdom. We learn that by slowing down & checking in with the Spirit of wisdom! - [Do Not Be Afraid--But Be as Wise as a Serpent](https://anitamathias.com/2023/03/13/do-not-be-afraid-but-be-wise-as-a-serpent/) - Today’s meditation is on not being afraid, but rather, acting with wisdom. Do not be afraid, the angel in the dream tells Joseph: Marry your fiancée, Mary, who is showing, despite your chaste restraint, for in our magical world, in which angels speak to humans, a virgin has conceived by the Spirit of God, as - [Do Not Be Afraid, but Do Be Prudent](https://anitamathias.com/2024/01/03/do-not-be-afraid-but-do-be-prudent/) - We must be fearless & prudent, as Joseph follows an angel's advice to marry Mary, pregnant by God's spirit with Jesus, but also flee to Egypt from Herod's wrath - [For Scoundrels, Scallywags, and Rascals—Christ Came](https://anitamathias.com/2023/11/09/for-scoundrels-scallywags-and-rascals-christ-came/) - Christ came for everyone, offering joyful life abundantly. He numbered scoundrels, rascals & the messed-up among his earthly ancestors & to such, he still comes - [How to Lead an Extremely Significant Life](https://anitamathias.com/2023/10/18/how-to-lead-an-extremely-significant-life/) - James & John asked to sit at Jesus's right & left hand. But Jesus instead offers them true greatness-serve others, see them, listen, bless, care, love, be kind! - [Don’t Walk Away From Jesus, but if You Do, He Still Looks at You and Loves You](https://anitamathias.com/2023/09/22/dont-walk-away-from-jesus-but-if-you-do-he-still-looks-at-you-and-loves-you/) - Jesus says "clutching" treasures-wealth, success etc.-make it almost impossible to experience spiritual riches & peace, though with God, all things are possible - [How to Find the Freedom of Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2023/09/07/how-to-find-the-freedom-of-forgiveness/) - The light freedom of forgiveness is hard to attain. We are caterpillars in a ring of fire, sometimes, unable to forgive by will-power alone. We need God's help! - [The Silver Coin in the Mouth of a Fish. Never Underestimate God!](https://anitamathias.com/2023/08/16/the-silver-coin-in-the-mouth-of-a-fish-never-underestimate-god/) - When tax was due, Jesus instructs Peter to catch a fish-which had swallowed a silver coin. Never underestimate God's miracles; prayer should be our first resort - [Following Jesus Is Costly and the Very Best Thing We Can Do](https://anitamathias.com/2023/08/06/following-jesus-is-costly-and-the-very-best-thing-we-can-do/) - The call to follow Christ is to a disciplined, focused life which leads to a hugely fruitful life, through the surrender of our wills to a wiser, perfect will. - [Persistent Prayer Turns Christ’s Silence, His “No,” and “Absolutely Not” to “YES!”](https://anitamathias.com/2023/07/19/persistent-prayer-turns-christs-silence-his-no-and-absolutely-not-to-yes/) - The Syrophoenician woman badgers Jesus, despite his repeated Nos. She argues, pointing out the flaws in his reasoning, until charmed by her faith, he says Yes! - [Grab Christ’s Hand When You Are Sinking](https://anitamathias.com/2023/07/08/grab-christs-hand-when-you-are-sinking/) - We sometimes yearn to do things way beyond our talent, energy, or finances. Which Christ permits! And when we feel we're sinking, we must rapidly grab his hand! - [How to Find Life-Changing Hidden Treasure](https://anitamathias.com/2023/07/01/how-to-find-life-changing-hidden-treasure/) - Jesus suggests following him, making him one's King, is a treasure worth trading everything for. We make this trade inch by inch, and it is always a good one! - [Jesus Promises Us Rest (and an Easy Yoke!)](https://anitamathias.com/2023/06/05/jesus-promises-us-rest-and-an-easy-yoke/) - Jesus promises us rest and his easy yoke if we're gentle and humble like him. Which will only happen when we are "clothed with the Spirit's power from on high!" - [Believing Is Seeing (Miracles): “According to Your Faith, Let It Be Done to You.”](https://anitamathias.com/2023/05/28/believing-is-seeing-miracles-according-to-your-faith-let-it-be-done-to-you/) - The faith to cry out the "Jesus Prayer," Jesus, have mercy on us, restored the blind men's sight. According to our faith in God's goodness will it be done to us - [Jesus Knows the Best Way to Do What You Are Best At](https://anitamathias.com/2023/05/20/jesus-knows-the-best-way-to-do-what-you-are-best-at/) - Jesus shows his mastery, & adds a 1 before our zeroes, when we are desperate. And he works miracles, adding zeroes after our ones in our surrendered strengths. - [On Using Anger as a Trigger to Transform Ourselves](https://anitamathias.com/2023/05/11/on-using-anger-as-a-trigger-to-transform-ourselves/) - We are judged by God & mankind in the way we judge other people, Jesus says. Still, as we repent &decide to think more kindly, we too can live "under the mercy" - [Do Not Worry About What To Eat: Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2023/05/03/do-not-worry-about-what-to-eat-jesus/) - Jesus tells us not to worry about food since our Father cares for us as for t birds. True for worries about not enough food &too much unhealthy food everywhere - [Happy Are the Merciful for They Shall Be Shown Mercy](https://anitamathias.com/2023/04/25/happy-are-the-merciful-for-they-shall-be-shown-mercy/) - Happy are the merciful for they'll find mercy. The laws of sowing & reaping terrify-but for the divine exchange! Jesus bore all our sin &his grace transforms us - [The Power of Christ’s Resurrection. For Us. Today](https://anitamathias.com/2023/04/13/the-power-in-christs-resurrection-for-us-today/) - Do not be afraid for Christ is always with us. His Spirit transforms our hearts, and lives We experience this dynamite power by slowing down & practising prayer - [Our Unique and Transforming Call and Vocation](https://anitamathias.com/2023/04/05/gods-transforming-call-to-each-of-us/) - God gives each of us a vocation which uses both our natural and spiritual gifts. Our call does not guarantee worldly success, but is always for our flourishing. - [Change your Life by Changing Your Thoughts](https://anitamathias.com/2023/03/24/change-your-life-by-changing-your-thoughts/) - Christ calls us to metanoia, literally, thinking differently. Let's view body shape, diet, exercise & fasting with t. energy of a new transformed mind of Christ - [Our Failures are the Cracks through which God’s Light Enters](https://anitamathias.com/2023/03/03/our-failures-are-the-cracks-through-which-gods-light-enters/) - The Book of Revelation, the final book of the Bible ends on an ecstatic note, “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life. Maranatha. Come Lord Jesus.” Through the day, when you feel distracted, or sense - [The Whole Earth is Full of God’s Glory](https://anitamathias.com/2023/02/24/the-whole-earth-is-full-of-gods-glory/) - Hello, welcome to the second episode of Christian meditation with Anita Mathias. Let’s close our eyes, and detach from the world, and begin to enter the inner sanctuary of the soul. The best way of calming down is by focusing on our breath. Breathe in to the count of five; breathe out. Again. The - [Mindfulness is Remembering the Presence of Christ with Us](https://anitamathias.com/2023/02/20/mindfulness-is-remembering-the-presence-of-christ-with-us/) - Hi Friends, Welcome to a new podcast, Christian Meditation with Anita. This is the first episode. Over the last four years, meditation has begun to change my life. A session of meditation before I write calms and focuses my mind and helps me gather my thoughts. It is the most effective way I know to - [On Yoga and Following Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2020/04/06/on-yoga-and-following-jesus/) - In the disciplines of Yoga, and following Jesus, things initially seem too hard, even impossible. With practice, they become doable, & then joyful & rewarding! - ["Rosaries at the Grotto" A Chapter from my newly-published memoir, "Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India."](https://anitamathias.com/2022/11/07/rosaries-at-the-grotto-a-chapter-from-my-newly-published-memoir-rosaries-reading-steel-a-catholic-childhood-in-india/) - Memoir of Catholic life in India in the 60's: Rosaries at tgrotto, food-filled family visits, Catholic Family Movement, American parish priests, American songs - [An Infallible Secret of Joy](https://anitamathias.com/2022/10/28/an-infallible-secret-of-joy/) - An unusual, unexpected & infallible secret of joy. The disciplines of rejoicing and gratitude, even in dire times, since God can transform anything to goodness. - [Thoughts on Writing my Just-published Memoir, & the Prologue to “Rosaries, Reading, Secrets”](https://anitamathias.com/2022/09/08/thoughts-on-writing-a-memoir-the-prologue-to-rosaries-reading-secrets/) - Writing a memoir awakens fierce memories of the past. For the past is not dead; it’s not even past, as William Faulkner observed. So what does one do with this undead past? Forgive. Forgive, huh? Forgive. Let it go. Again and again. For, after all, this world is one of insistent goodness, insistent abundance. Flowers On forgiveness. And the prologue to my memoir, "Rosaries, Reading, Secrets. - [Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India. My new memoir](https://anitamathias.com/2022/09/01/rosaries-reading-secrets-a-catholic-childhood-in-india-my-new-memoir/) - My new memoir, Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India. An account of escaping into book in a rebellious, tumultous Catholic childhood. - [In which Driveness & Scarcity Thinking is the Voice of the Oppressor, & the Enemy of the People](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/19/in-which-driveness-scarcity-thinking-is-the-voice-of-the-oppressor-the-enemy-of-the-people/) - I am reading Brene Brown’s Daring Greatly. She quotes Global activist Lynne Twist who, in her book The Soul of Money, refers to scarcity as “the great lie”. Twist writes, “For me, and for many of us, our first waking thought of the day is, “I didn’t get enough sleep.” The next one is “I - [Most Read Posts in September on Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/30/most-read-posts-in-september-on-dreaming-beneath-the-spires/) - 1 When Christian Giants Stumble, the Proper Response is Mourning 2 In which Angels Sing, and Diamonds Materialize: A Report from the Revival Alliance Charismatic Conference in Birmingham 3 In which I forgive a pair of ecclesiastical rascals, and my soul finds peace 4 In which God forgives us, we forgive ourselves, and we are - [On Public Rewards for Private God-Chasing & on Prayer as the Root of a Life](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/09/on-public-rewards-for-private-goodness-and-prayer-as-the-root-of-a-life/) - I’ve been to some good church conferences, among them John Arnott’s International Leaders School of Ministry and Paul Miller’s A Praying Life and The Person of Jesus courses. However, the St Andrew’s church weekend away led by Rupert Charkham of Holy Trinity, Cambridge, was among the most refreshing and interesting among them. Charkham talked about - [In which I resolve not to be afraid](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/06/it-is-i-dont-be-afraid-2/) - So the disciples row for “three or three and a half miles.” (I love these charming details, John striving to remember accurately, and how they make it easier for us to believe in truth of these memoirs and autobiographical reflections of Jesus.) It’s dark; the wind is raging; the waters are rough. And a - [Christ says, "I will let nothing be wasted."](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/03/christ-says-i-will-let-nothing-be-wasted-2/) - “Let nothing be wasted” “Nothing, Lord?” “Nothing.” * * * Not the weary years, Not the silent tears, None of the loneliness Which caused that deep, echoing silence in which we could hear you? None of our failures Which silenced the insistent voices Of those who might otherwise have found a use for us. - [Of Falcons and Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/02/of-falcons-and-forgiveness/) - The falcon soars, riding the winds, reaching for the clouds, until she reaches the limits of her leash. And then, at the will of the falconer, she is inexorably reeled down. Earthbound! The eagle soars high, and higher still, effortlessly, soaring on thermal currents, using even obstruction currents to soar free. * * * - [My Train Wreck into Grace](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/23/my-train-wreck-into-grace/) - Sometimes, when my tongue runs away with me, and I use my words to express anger rather than bestow grace, and those words steal life and strength and peace rather than lavish them, I see the red flag of Jesus, and am stopped dead in my tracks. But sometimes, I don’t stop, and don’t listen - [Living in the Updraft of the Wild Goose of the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/16/living-in-the-updraft-of-the-wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit/) - Wild Geese fly in a V formation. The lead goose reduces the wind resistance; the others glide, almost effortlessly, in the currents she has created. During a storm, the eagle waits perched on the edge of its nest for the wind to gain sufficient velocity. And then it spreads its wings wide and effortlessly glides - [My Experience of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and Speaking in Tongues](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/28/my-experience-of-the-baptism-in-the-holy-spirit-and-speaking-in-tongues/) - And so, I am tired and stressed and overwhelmed. Or anxious, my heart beating faster. Or I simply don’t know what to do. Or happy and at peace and joyful. And almost without realizing it, I find myself praying. In tongues. * * * How do I find myself in Oxford, England, in the 21st - [The Parable of the Bridge or "When to Say No to Insistent People"](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/24/the-parable-of-the-bridge-or-when-to-say-no-to-insistent-people/) - I once co-led a slightly dysfunctional women’s group which studied The Emotionally Healthy Church by Pete Scazzero recommended to us by an emotionally unhealthy woman leading women’s ministries and the study ended in emotionally unhealthy tears and trauma. And so, I did not finish reading the book, but this story lingers in my memory. Rabbi - [When People Mess up the Story of your Life, but God Edits it Beautifully](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/17/when-people-mess-up-the-story-of-your-life-but-god-edits-it-beautifully/) - I read Matthew 2 as I blog through the Bible, and realize how much sheer misery and hassle and stress Joseph and Mary and Jesus had to endure for no sin or mistake of their own—but purely because of their destiny, purely because of other people’s jealousy. Herod was “disturbed” when the Magi said “Where - [God Comes to Those Who Dare to be Different: Do Not Be Afraid](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/02/god-comes-to-those-who-dare-to-be-different-do-not-be-afraid/) - And when God chose to become flesh and dwell among us, the angel wisely prefaces his glorious announcement, “You have found favour with God,” with “Do not be afraid.” You, a “virgin,” will bear a child. Do not be afraid. Oh, the looming scandal, what would people say? How many would have rejected this “blessing,” but - [The Most Read Posts in August 2012 on Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/01/the-most-read-posts-in-august-2012-on-dreaming-beneath-the-spires/) - 1 Christians, Quit so Oppositional In which I muse on Chik-fil-A 2 God at the Bottom of the Laundry Basket: Or, The Disasters when Men Counsel Women 3 Lonnie Frisbee, the most influential gay Christian in the last century 4 Chalk Circles, Revivals and Me. 5 In which I encounter the Angel of Writing 6 - [Revivals, Chalk Circles and Me](https://anitamathias.com/2012/08/30/revivals-chalk-circles-and-me/) - I have heard of the English Evangelical Revival when at the preaching of Whitfield, miners wept, their tears making white lines on their coal-black faces. I have heard of the 1904 revival in Wales, when the Spirit of God fell powerfully on meetings, and people forgave their enemies. I have heard of the revival Lonnie - [Paul's Sublime Statement on the Justice of God](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/18/pauls-sublime-statement-on-the-justice-of-god-2/) - Blog Through the Bible ProjectRomans 2:5 But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. 6 God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” 7 To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and - [Repent and Believe the Good News](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/21/repent-and-believe-the-good-news-5/) - Image :downeyubf.com Mark 1: 14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”And so we see Jesus for the first time in Mark's Gospel. And the first thing Jesus says in this first appearance - [God praises those who are Christians inwardly, whose hearts are circumcised](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/21/god-praises-those-who-are-christians-inwardly-whose-hearts-are-circumcised/) - Circumcision of the Heart Image: holyspiritinteractive.net The Jews and the Law 17 Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; 18 if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; 19 if you are convinced that you are a guide for - [God praises those who are Christians inwardly, whose hearts are circumcised](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/21/god-praises-those-who-are-christians-inwardly-whose-hearts-are-circumcised-3/) - Circumcision of the HeartImage: holyspiritinteractive.netThe Jews and the Law 17 Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; 18 if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; 19 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a - [Repentance and Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/01/repentance-and-forgiveness/) - Image, Cafe Biblia Mark 1:4 Blog Through the Bible Project And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Repentance. Changer la vie in French probably gives as better idea of what it means, or metanoia in koine Greek, changing one's soul . What is so tricky - [Being Praised by God](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/01/being-praised-by-god/) - Romans, Blog Through the Bible Project Romans 2:28 A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. 29 No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from - [Repentance and Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/01/repentance-and-forgiveness-2/) - Image, Cafe BibliaMark 1:4Blog Through the Bible Project And so John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.Repentance. Changer la vie in French probably gives as better idea of what it means, or metanoia in koine Greek, changing one's soul.What is so tricky about repentance is that it is - [Being Praised by God](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/01/being-praised-by-god-2/) - Romans, Blog Through the Bible ProjectRomans 2:28 A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. 29 No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other - [The Questions Jesus Asked](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/29/the-questions-jesus-asked-2/) - Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God Some very penetrating and hard-hitting questions from the Gospel of John 1 Do you want to get well, John 5:6 2 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes - [The Questions Jesus Asked](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/29/the-questions-jesus-asked-3/) - Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God Some very penetrating and hard-hitting questions from the Gospel of John1 Do you want to get well, John 5:62 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only - [What is Man: “Totally Depraved” or Made in the Image of God?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/29/totally-depraved-or-made-in-the-image-of-god/) - What is Man: “Totally Depraved” or Made in the Image of God? Romans 1:29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they have no understanding, - ["Totally Depraved" or Made in the Image of God?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/29/totally-depraved-or-made-in-the-image-of-god-2/) - What is Man: “Totally Depraved” or Made in the Image of God?Romans 1:29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they have no understanding, no fidelity, no - [What do you want? John 1:37](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/28/what-do-you-want-john-137/) - What do you want?Image CreditWhat do you want? John 1:37And no-nonsense, getting down to business,the first thing you ask us.in this most beautiful of books.is a question.What do you want?I am today ashamed of the smallnessof my desire.But here it is.I place it in your hands.Please grant it.But if you transform it,or deny it,still, be thou - [Come and you will see (John 1:39)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/21/come-and-you-will-see-john-139-2/) - Image Credit Continuing my blogging through the Gospel of John 35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” - [Friend, Come Higher](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/21/friend-come-higher-2/) - Peter, from Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter, the rock). John 1:42 Yes, I do know you.I see you and know you better than you know yourself. I know you are friable. I know you can crumble, though these things may - [Come and you will see (John 1:39)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/21/come-and-you-will-see-john-139-3/) - Image CreditContinuing my blogging through the Gospel of John35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which - [Friend, Come Higher](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/21/friend-come-higher-3/) - Peter, from Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter, the rock). John 1:42Yes, I do know you.I see youand know you better than you know yourself.I know you are friable.I know you can crumble,though these things may surprise you.But your strength shall emerge - [Why do I Blog? Reflections and Resolutions.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/08/why-do-i-blog-reflections-and-resolutions/) - http://www.toothpastefordinner.com/archives/2007/Apr/Okay, over the last perhaps 2-3 weeks, blogging has almost become an addiction. It took my daughters to point that out to me.It took me work to be addiction-free (of coffee, chocolate, tea, internet addictions etc.) so I am certainly not going to allow myself to slip into another addiction. Because addictions separate you from - [“Laying Out”: A Guest Post by Jennie Bishop](https://anitamathias.com/2012/02/27/laying-out-a-guest-post-by-jennie-bishop/) - Jennie Bishop, author of The Princess and the Kiss My husband and I are worship leaders—him by position and career, me by example—and thus have come to know the human ego intimately. The best musicians are always those who know how and when to “lay out.” They can step back and let someone - [Privacy Policy](https://anitamathias.com/2006/05/02/privacy-policy-4/) - At lightinthedarknessthegospelofjohn.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by lightinthedarknessthegospelofjohn.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.Log FilesLike many other Web sites, lightinthedarknessthegospelofjohn.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( - [What do you Want? John Chapter 1.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/what-do-you-want-john-chapter-1/) - What do you want? - [Belle Du Jour, Luis Bunuel](https://anitamathias.com/2010/12/31/belle-du-jour-luis-bunuel/) - FRIDAY, 31 DECEMBER 2010Belle Du Jour, Luis BunuelIt was tres bizarre, as the French would say.Catherine Deneuve played Severine, the beautiful and frigid wife of an adoring surgeon. (I have read that frigidity in far more common among strikingly beautiful women).Bunuel cuts continuously between Catherine's real life and her vivid (and violent and masochistic) fantasies. - [Les Nuits de la pleine lune, Full Moon in Paris, Eric Rohmer](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/03/les-nuits-de-la-pleine-lune-full-moon-in-paris-eric-rohmer-2/) - Full Moon in Paris or Les Nuits de la Pleine Lune belongs to Eric Rohmer's Comedies and Proverbs series. It is based on the proverb “He who has two women loses his soul, he who has two houses loses his mind.” Louise is restless with her stable adoring lover, who wants her to stay in and be with him. She - [Jules et Jim by Francois Truffaut](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/06/jules-et-jim-by-francois-truffaut/) - Jules et Jim by Francois TruffautJules et JimA bitter-sweet film directed by Francois Truffaut based on an autobiographical novel by Henri-Pierre Roche. Two sweet spirited friends, a German, Jules and a Frenchman Jim become inseparable friends, sharing everything in common.They meet a woman who embodies their shared fantasies. Jules marries Catherine, though Jim too loves her.The - [Les Nuits de la pleine lune, Full Moon in Paris, Eric Rohmer](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/08/les-nuits-de-la-pleine-lune-full-moon-in-paris-eric-rohmer/) - Full Moon in Paris or Les Nuits de la Pleine Lune belongs to Eric Rohmer's Comedies and Proverbs series. It is based on the proverb “He who has two women loses his soul, he who has two houses loses his mind.” Louise is restless with her stable adoring lover, who wants her to stay in and be with him. She - [](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/22/67732/) - [Ithaka, by Constantine Cavafy, Read by Sean Connery. Full text included.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/06/ithaka-by-constantine-cavafy-read-by-sean-connery-full-text-included/) - IthakaConstantine Cavafy As you set out for Ithakahope the voyage is a long one,full of adventure, full of discovery.Laistrygonians and Cyclops,angry Poseidon—don’t be afraid of them:you’ll never find things like that on your wayas long as you keep your thoughts raised high,as long as a rare excitementstirs your spirit and your body.Laistrygonians and Cyclops,wild Poseidon—you won’t - [Thoughts on Blogging](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/06/thoughts-on-blogging/) - 1) It's writing without gatekeepers. You put your thoughts out there; if they resonate, you find an audience, readers, "followers."2) It is more or less a meritocracy, but it can also be tweaked and cheated like the old system. 3 Nothing is better for breaking a writer's block4) Bloggers who are honest and keep in touch - [The Journey of the Magi, by T.S. Eliot. A Poem for Epiphany](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/06/the-journey-of-the-magi-by-t-s-eliot-a-poem-for-epiphany/) - This is a wonderfully dense poem. Note the compression of language, the abundance of details, the effects of repetition, and rhythm, the overarching tone of sadness, and world-weary experience.Listen to T.S. Eliot read his own poem at http://www.poetryarchive.org/poetryarchive/singlePoem.do?poemId=7070The Journey of the Magi, by T.S. Eliot"A cold coming we had of it,Just the worst time of the - [How to get more Readers for your blog](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/07/how-to-get-more-readers-for-your-blog/) - Thank you, Seth Godinhttp://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2006/06/how_to_get_traf.htmlHow to get traffic for your blogUse lists.Be topical... write posts that need to be read right now.Learn enough to become the expert in your field.Break news.Be timeless... write posts that will be readable in a year.Be among the first with a great blog on your topic, then encourage others to blog on the same - [Poems on Marriage from Wendell Berry and R. S. Thomas](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/10/poems-on-marriage-from-wendell-berry-and-r-s-thomas-2/) - AnniversaryNineteen years nowUnder the same roofEating our bread,Using the same air:Sighing, if one sighs,Meeting the other’sWords with a lookThat thaws suspicion.Nineteen years nowSharing life’s table,And not to be firstTo call the meal longWe balance it thoughtfullyOn the tip of the tongue.Careful to maintainThe strict palate.Nineteen years nowKeeping simple house.Opening the doorTo friend and stranger;Opening the - [Fire and Ice By Robert Frost](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/01/fire-and-ice-by-robert-frost/) - Fire and IceBy Robert FrostSome say the world will end in fire,Some say in ice.From what I’ve tasted of desireI hold with those who favor fire.But if it had to perish twice,I think I know enough of hateTo say that for destruction iceIs also greatAnd would suffice. http://theoxfordchristian.blogspot.com/2011/01/fire-and-ice-by-robert-frost.htmlWikio Bookmark this on Delicious - [Ash Wednesday by T.S. Eliot](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/11/ash-wednesday-by-t-s-eliot-2/) - Ash WednesdayT.S. EliotBecause I do not hope to turn againBecause I do not hopeBecause I do not hope to turnDesiring this man's gift and that man's scopeI no longer strive to strive towards such things(Why should the agèd eagle stretch its wings?)Why should I mournThe vanished power of the usual reign?Because I do not hope - [Recessional by Rudyard Kipling](https://anitamathias.com/2011/05/02/recessional-by-rudyard-kipling/) - RecessionalBY RUDYARD KIPLING1897God of our fathers, known of old, Lord of our far-flung battle-line, Beneath whose awful Hand we hold Dominion over palm and pine—Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget—lest we forget!The tumult and the shouting dies; The Captains and the Kings depart: Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart.Lord - [Michael Cunningham on Virginia Woolf, his mother, and himself](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/04/michael-cunningham-on-virginia-woolf-his-mother-and-himself/) - Virginia Woolf, my mother and meAhead of Review's book club on The Hours, Michael Cunningham explains how discovering Virginia Woolf as a teenager inspired him to write his novel about her life – and how his mother provided a surprising solution when he got stuckShare367Comments (15)Michael CunninghamThe Guardian, Saturday 4 June 2011 Virginia Woolf was great fun at - [Some favourite lines from Shakespeare](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/17/some-favourite-lines-from-shakespeare-2/) - I am gratefulFor Shakespeare who wroteWhere the bee sucks, there suck I;In a cowslip's bell I lie;There I couch when owls do cry.On the bat's back I do flyAfter summer merrily. Merrily, merrily shall I live now Under the blossom that hangs on the bough.Full fathom five thy father lies;Of his bones are coral made;Those - [The 100 Greatest Non-fiction Books](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/14/the-100-greatest-non-fiction-books/) - After keen debate at the Guardian's books desk, this is our list of the very best factual writing, organised by category, and then by date. See how closely it matches yours – and help fill in the gaps on the blogShare131guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 14 June 2011 14.34 BSTArticle historyThe greatest non-fiction books live here ... the British - [Amanda Hocking, Star of Self-Publishing](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/17/amanda-hocking-star-of-self-publishing-2/) - StorysellerBy STRAWBERRY SAROYANThe New York TimesAmanda Hocking, the star of self-publishing, was sitting in the front seat of her Ford Escape earlier this spring when she spotted a messenger delivering flowers to her home in Austin, Minn. “They’re probably from, like, my mom,” she said as she walked up to her porch. “Or my dad. - [What Getting Published Will Not Do for You](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/07/what-getting-published-will-not-do-for-you-2/) - An amusing list from Meg Rosoff This week it’s for everyone thinking that publishing a book will solve your financial, career and self-esteem issues and cause your nearest and dearest to treat you with respect and awe.The reality is…Getting published will not write your second novel for you.Or entice laundry fairies to come live in your house.It - [Edward Thomas and Robert Frost: A Friendship vital to each other's success](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/30/edward-thomas-and-robert-frost-a-friendship-vital-to-each-others-success-2/) - Edward Thomas, Robert Frost and the road to warWhen Thomas and Frost met in London in 1913, neither had yet made his name as a poet. They became close, and each was vital to the other's success. But then Frost wrote 'The Road Not Taken', which was to drive Thomas off to warShare reddit thisComments (31)Matthew Hollisguardian.co.uk, - [The Dreamers Manifesto](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/11/the-dreamers-manifesto-3/) - The Dreamers Manifesto Image: annejacksonwrites.com - [Prodigies of Fast Writing](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/15/prodigies-of-fast-writing-2/) - How Fast Can You Write?By Michael Agger Hunched over my keyboard, I'm haunted by anecdotes of faster writers. Christopher Hitchens composing a Slate column in 20 minutes—after a chemo session, after a "full" dinner party, late on a Sunday night. The infamously productive Trollope, who used customized paper! "He had a note pad that had been indexed to indicate - [Privacy Policy](https://anitamathias.com/2006/05/02/privacy-policy-2/) - At waterfromthesanctuary.blogspot.com/, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by waterfromthesanctuary.blogspot.com/ and how it is used.Log FilesLike many other Web sites, waterfromthesanctuary.blogspot.com/ makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( - [Dancing with the Lord](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/dancing-with-the-lord/) - Dancing with the LordDancing with the Lord:That’s the way to live;Moving in so closely that I’m guided instinctively.He doesn’t mind my clumsiness, The obvious inexpertise. And when exhaustion makes me stall, I climb onto his feet, like a childon her father’s toes,and the dance continues While His music plays. - [Missing the Banquet](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/missing-the-banquet-2/) - Missing the banquetThe same story, always.No room in palaces, ormiddle-class lounges. Sohe goes where fewwould choose to. Down. Among those working for small wages, hemmed in by circumstance, forced to be silent, still,and awaketo seethe glory Of an angel-streaked sky, and hear the promise of Joy:A Saviour. And His simple, easily missed gift:Peace.Whatever I may missIn the hurly-burly of my - [Living Waters](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/living-waters-2/) - Living WatersWaterfalls, crashing from the heights.Dazzling energy, like the spirit of God. I am but toe-deep in your lovely waters, Lord,mostly dry, for most of the day, but I want to wade, ever deeper into your rivers of delight. I want to live there, your waters, cascading around me,washing out all ashes in me, until there is just beauty, irrigatingmy barren soul, - [Lazarus](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/lazarus/) - Lazarus Lazarus was never the same.For the rest of his life, he walkedlike a man with a limp--onewho is different--through the steeparid paths of Bethany.For four days, everythinghe feared thronged to him. And amid the terror, a voice echoed,the teacher he loved,“Lazarus, come forth.” As they peeled his winding sheets, the stench fled. His eyes shudderedat - [Elijah](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/04/elijah-2/) - ElijahNow Elijah the Tishbite, said to Ahab,"As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives,Whom I serve,There will be neither dew nor rain in the next few yearsExcept at my word." 1 Kings 17The Lord exalts his prophets to the court of princes,He tells him what is to happen,Giving him power one cannot fathom.Which can make - [The Lord breathes honour](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/16/the-lord-breathes-honour-2/) - The Lord Breathes HonourThe Lord breathes over us.At his breath, we are covered in gold dust as in a cloak.At his breath, we are covered with starsAnd the jewels of the earthWhich he creates from mud, coal, rockAnd the bones of dead creatures.From these nothings,He creates diamonds, sapphires,Rubies, amethysts and emeralds.Which he breathes over usCovering - [What I do is me; For that I came.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/21/what-i-do-is-me-for-that-i-came-4/) - What I do is me; For that I came.The wandering liquid notesOf cuckoo, and mourning doveEcho through our gardenHigh and full of happiness.Why do they sing?They sing because they can,They sing because they must.On Milford Sound, I saw dolphins Leap high through the fjordDelighted to be aliveLike lambs at dusk in the LakesFrisking because they - [ On Not Wasting a Desert Experience](https://anitamathias.com/2020/09/13/on-not-wasting-a-desert-experience/) - Lockdowns are an invitation to quietness, reflection and spiritual growth. A unique desert experience we should not waste on zoom calls and the internet. - [A Mind of Life and Peace in the Middle of a Global Pandemic](https://anitamathias.com/2020/05/04/a-mind-of-life-and-peace/) - We can maintain peace during lockdown by regulating our mental states through exercise, keeping physically happy by exercise, & trusting that God's in charge. - [Silver and Gold Linings in the Storm Clouds of Coronavirus](https://anitamathias.com/2020/03/28/silver-and-gold-linings-in-the-storm-clouds-of-coronavirus/) - While this is a time of great change, and shaking, there are silver and gold linings if we look very hard for them. A few of mine... - ["ZIGZAGS" (My "Conversion Narrative")](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/zigzags-my-conversion-narrative/) - This was originally published in Commonweal Magazine (Oct 8, 1999 as "I was aTeenage Atheist") and reprinted in Philip Zaleski's "Best Spiritual Writing" anthology It is included in my book, Wandering Between Two Worlds (Amazon.com) or on Amazon.co.uk Zigzags Flames leaped into the horizon. My parents, my sister, Shalini, and I abandoned our dinner to race up - [The Story of Dirk Willems: The Man who Died to Save His Enemy](https://anitamathias.com/2019/10/17/the-story-of-dirk-willems-the-man-who-died-to-save-his-enemy/) - The religious wars of the Reformation had heroes and villains. There were giants like Luther and Calvin, and quieter unsung heroes. Five hundred years later, one of these stands out: the Dutch Anabaptist, Dirk Willems, who sacrificed his life to save his enemy. - [Life- Changing Journaling: A Gratitude Journal, and Habit-Tracker, with Food and Exercise Logs, Time Sheets, a Bullet Journal, Goal Sheets and a Planner](https://anitamathias.com/2019/12/23/life-changing-journalling/) - This "Life-Changing Journal" includes a Gratitude Journal, a Habit Tracker, Food and Exercise Logs, a Bullet Journal, and a Daily Planner with Time Sheets and Yearly, Monthly, and Weekly Goal Sheets. It is the only journal you will need in 2020. - [The Real Problem of the Christian Life, according to C. S. Lewis](https://anitamathias.com/2009/06/02/the-real-problem-of-the-christian-life/) - "The real problem of the Christian life comes where people do not usually look for it. It comes the very moment you wake up each morning. All your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists simply in shoving them all back; in listening - [Luther on the difference between himself and Erasmus](https://anitamathias.com/2009/01/30/on-the-difference-between-luther-and-eramsus/) - ‘The difference between you and me, Erasmus, is that you sit above Scripture and judge it, while I sit under Scripture and let it judge me!’ Martin Luther And Luther had the more fruitful, influential and world-changing life - [Martin Luther and Christmas Trees](https://anitamathias.com/2008/11/21/martin-luther-and-christmas-trees-2/) - "The Christmas tree comes to us from Martin Luther, who is credited with being inspired by the starry heavens one night and expressing his feelings to his family by bringing a fir tree into his home and attaching lighted candles to its branches. Fir meant fire—and fire is an ancient symbol for spirit. The tree - [The Peace of Wild Things](https://anitamathias.com/2008/11/20/the-peace-of-wild-things/) - The Peace of Wild Things BY WENDELL BERRY When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water, and - [IN THE BEGINNING](https://anitamathias.com/2008/11/01/in-the-beginning-2/) - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. I grew up in India where religious chants spilled into the streets, early into the morning with the muezzins holler--Allah oh Akbar...There is no God, but God, and Muhammed is his prophet. And from merry dhabas and corner - [Trust: A Message of Christmas](https://anitamathias.com/2019/12/24/trust-a-message-of-christmas/) - The Baby in the Barn connects all things: Emperors, Kings, Scholars, Shepherds, the poor, the homeless, stars, angels. We cannot do better than to trust him - [On Loving That Which Love You Back](https://anitamathias.com/2019/12/21/on-loving-that-which-loves-you-back/) - In times of sadness of stress it's important that we choose to love that which loves us back. That which creates good rather than feels good. - [Keeping our Small Boat Afloat: Thoughts on Redemption, Giving up Regret, and my Thirty Year Marriage](https://anitamathias.com/2019/03/26/keeping-our-small-boat-afloat-thoughts-on-redemption-giving-up-regret-and-my-thirty-year-marriage/) - Thoughts on my Thirtieth Wedding Anniversary: Hold on, hold on, love, forgive... - [“An Autobiography in Five Chapters” and Avoiding Habitual Holes  ](https://anitamathias.com/2019/11/11/an-autobiography-in-five-chapters-and-avoiding-habitual-holes/) - Once we realise and analyse the holes we habitually fall into, we can also find ways to get out quickly, to walk around them, or to take another road. - [Shining Faith in Action: Dirk Willems on the Ice](https://anitamathias.com/2019/10/23/shining-faith-in-action-dirk-willems-on-the-ice/) - The story of Dirk Willems, the Dutch Anabaptist who sacrificed his life to save his enemy - [On Checking In Before you Fly](https://anitamathias.com/2019/10/16/on-checking-in-before-you-fly/) - On learning to check in with the Spirit before I act. - [The Spiritual Practice of Bible-Walking](https://anitamathias.com/2019/10/06/the-spiritual-practice-of-bible-walking/) - On my new spiritual practice of listening to Scripture on the hoof, while walking. Praying & walking helps me encounter the text afresh, in surprising ways. - [Listening to your Body, Listening to your Life](https://anitamathias.com/2018/06/20/listening-to-your-body-listening-to-your-life/) - Sometimes we need to make recovering health the most important priority in our lives, because if the body fails us, the spirit, mind and heart are homeless! - [Deep peace in times of political turmoil](https://anitamathias.com/2019/09/17/deep-peace-in-times-of-political-turmoil/) - Deep peace in times of political turmoil comes from trusting God &his creative ability to make outcomes work out for good for our finances or our characters - [When One Simple Change can Shift Things in Your Life](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/07/one-simple-change-can-shift-things-life/) - Me with the lovely ladies from my church, St. Andrew's, Oxford. We've just done the 5K Race for Life. I have lost 47 pounds since then!! Michael Hyatt urges his readers to take up running. He says, “Just by beginning, you will feel your life begin to shift.” “Things shifting”--I heard that phrase a lot - [Charles Duhigg’s “The Power of Habit,” on How to Create or Change Habits](https://anitamathias.com/2014/11/02/charles-duhiggs-power-habit-create-change-habits/) - Any habit can be formed or changed once we understand how they work, the loop of cue, routine and reward. That is the power of habit. - [On Returning Home to yourself, and The Things you Love More than Yourself.](https://anitamathias.com/2019/08/25/on-returning-home-to-yourself-and-the-things-you-love-more-than-yourself/) - Random thoughts on nourishing oneself intellectually, creatively, spiritually and emotionally to "craft a life one does not need to escape from." And on "coming home" to the self and God and work after great failure, or even success. - [Every Prison has a Door… (and We Usually Have the Key!)  ](https://anitamathias.com/2019/06/26/every-prison-has-a-door-and-we-usually-have-the-key/) - People can struggle for years or decades with things which could be overcome in months or a year with determination and God's help. However, bearing the "easy yoke" or "death" of conquering these things leads to a joyous resurrection. - [A Spiritual Late Bloomer, I Learn from Failure in my Messy Beautiful Life](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/17/spiritual-late-bloomer-learn-failure-messy-beautiful/) - When my daughter Zoe was born, twenty-one years ago, frazzled between nursing, and impractical plans of still writing, I made a mental prayer list to pray through as I pushed her stroller round our neighbourhood. And blush: All those items are still on my prayer list. 1 Losing Weight. I still have 12 pounds more to - [The Life-Changing Practice of Meditation](https://anitamathias.com/2019/06/07/the-life-changing-practice-of-meditation/) - So, a couple of years ago, almost on a whim, my husband Roy and I took an intensive eight week course in Mindfulness at the Oxford Department of Psychiatry! (and at the famous local psychiatric hospital, the Warneford!!) I didn’t really know what Mindfulness was, but I “knew,” we should do it. You can imagine - [On the amazing Baptism in the Holy Spirit--and its limits!](https://anitamathias.com/2018/03/16/on-the-amazing-baptism-in-the-holy-spirit-and-its-limits/) - The Baptism in the Holy Spirit helps us change more effectively than mere will-power can. However, there are limits--we will never go to our graves as perfect humans beings! Our weaknesses & limitations are part of the way God has designed us to be, part of the plot of the story God is writing in our lives & the world. - [Life by the Inch](https://anitamathias.com/2019/05/12/life-by-the-inch/) - Life by the inch is a cinch; so too, following Christ is easy in the inches, though hard when contemplated in yards! - [How to Enjoy a Big, Spacious, Open-hearted Life](https://anitamathias.com/2018/07/07/enjoying-a-big-spacious-open-hearted-life/) - “The ability to enjoy a big, spacious, abundant, open-hearted life is directly proportional to your ability to love everyone, especially those who are different from you,” Brian Houston, - [On Quitting Things…and Breaking Free](https://anitamathias.com/2018/08/09/on-quitting-thingsand-breaking-free/) - Quitting bad habits and unhealthy, unhelpful stuff is both easier than we feared, but also really, hard. Some things I've just stopped, and reflections on this - [ On Keys (of the Kingdom), and Knowing Where to Cast one’s Net](https://anitamathias.com/2018/09/09/on-keys-of-the-kingdom-and-knowing-where-to-cast-ones-net/) - Among the most important & time-saving things we can do is ask Jesus where to cast our nets. He can give us keys to small shifts which can change our lives! - [ Finding Golden Hours in Dark Days (and Some Thoughts on Forgiveness)](https://anitamathias.com/2018/09/23/finding-golden-hours-in-dark-days-and-some-thoughts-on-forgiveness/) - The darkest days have happy and golden minutes, though it sometimes takes wisdom and discipline to find them. Grace and forgiveness can get us there! - [Was your time, work and money lost or wasted? Or was it a seed?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/10/was-your-time-work-and-money-lost-or-wasted-or-was-it-a-seed/) - Look at these seeds. They will become mustard, barley, corn, wild rice, rice, red rice, wheat, lentils. And can multiply themselves indefinitely if their harvests are replanted. Wouldn't think that just looking at them, would you? They look hard and inert, as lifeless as pebbles. * * * I was thinking about an experience - [God can Extract Gold from the Griefs of the Past](https://anitamathias.com/2019/02/26/god-extracts-gold-from-grief/) - God can extract gold from the griefs of the past, healing them, redeeming us, giving us wisdom, understanding, compassion, and perhaps even a ministry through them! - [Writing and Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2018/12/02/writing-and-prayer-2/) - Writing and Prayer. We read about them, write about them, talk about them, agonize about them, resolve to do them, wish we’d done them, more than we actually do them. In this they resemble other pursuits that people overestimate the intensity, frequency, and duration of--reading, and sex! - [For our griefs, failures, tears, Christ’s desire is “Let nothing, nothing be wasted”](https://anitamathias.com/2018/11/21/for-our-griefs-failures-tears-christs-desire-is-let-nothing-nothing-be-wasted/) - It is God's desire to convert the apparently wasted bits of our lives into something beautiful, wasting nothing. - [When You Think it’s All Over, And That End is a New Beginning](https://anitamathias.com/2015/05/04/when-you-think-its-all-over-and-that-end-is-a-new-beginning/) - John is exiled at Patmos, a failure, forgotten. He sees & hears Jesus & receives a new commission to write. The word of God everything turns around for him. - [In Praise of Desert and Wilderness Experiences](https://anitamathias.com/2018/01/28/in-praise-of-desert-and-wilderness-experiences/) - Sometimes, like John the Baptist, fulfilling God's call on our life will mean a period of silence, solitude, obscurity and even loneliness. Trying to short-circuit this period only prolongs it, and, indeed, we may never fulfil our vocation. - [It’s all God’s money: Thoughts on “the Cattle on a Thousand Hills”](https://anitamathias.com/2018/01/18/its-all-gods-money-thoughts-on-the-cattle-on-a-thousand-hills/) - One of the most important things to get our thoughts straight on is money... since our attitude to money affects the course of our lives. "It's all God's money": This mantra helps me. - [Gratitude: A Secret to Happiness](https://anitamathias.com/2018/01/07/gratitude-a-secret-to-happiness/) - Gratitude is one of the most important ingredients of happiness: and we learnt it by practising. - [The Things Worth Doing Badly](https://anitamathias.com/2018/01/01/things-worth-badly/) - On all the things worth doing... and worth doing badly - [A Christmas Reflection, and Letter](https://anitamathias.com/2017/12/24/christmas-reflection-letter/) - This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." I have meditated on the Christmas and Easter story every Christmas, for—goodness--decades, and every year find new diamond-glints in it. It’s one of those magical stories which speak to everyone. To the poor and down-and-out, - [Your Trajectory is More Important Than Where you Are](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/22/your-trajectory-is-more-important-than-where-you-are/) - The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. The House of David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. 2 Samuel 3.1 This is a repeated phrase and theme in the Samuel and Kings. I noticed this phrase when I spoke - [Even Better than the Alps... Thoughts on Returning Home](https://anitamathias.com/2017/07/26/even-better-than-the-alps-which-ive-just-visited/) - Charles Spurgeon said that there was one thing better than Alps, and visiting them, I discover he was right - [The 10 Most Read Posts of 2015 on Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/26/65783/) - The Most Read Posts of 2015 - [Grazie Signore! “Thank you, Lord, for those who have greater gifts.”  ](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/12/grazie-signore-thank-you-lord-for-people-who-have-greater-gifts/) - Grazie Signore. On adopting Brennan Manning's surprising suggestion of thanking God for those who have greater gifts than you do, for they enrich you too! - [My Experience of The Baptism in the Holy Spirit and of Speaking in Tongues](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/29/experience-baptism-holy-spirit-speaking-tongues/) - So here I am, stressed and anxious. Or happy, at peace and joyful. And almost without realizing it, I find myself praying. In tongues. * * * How do I find myself in Oxford, England, in the 21st century, praying in tongues, this ancient First Century gift vividly described in The Acts of the Apostles? Well, 30ish - [In which Grace is like Manna, Given Day by Day, in our Time of Need, and Just Enough](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/23/in-which-grace-is-like-manna-given-day-by-day/) - I have desired some real life fairy tales which haven’t happened. And there are spiritual fairy tales I have desired. To be able to say: “Some one prayed for me, and the mathematical problem which has baffled me all my adult life: “How to eat less than I burn” was resolved, just like that.” “I prayed for - [Secret Disciples and Celebrity Christians: Not Necessarily the Same](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/15/successful-christians-hidden-christians/) - These are the best read Christian authors in the world today: Francis Chan, David Platt, Ann Voskamp, Randy Alcorn, Lysa TerKeurst Here are the top 5 Christian bloggers in the world : Justin Taylor, Trevin Wax, the Resurgence, Desiring God, Tim Challies.And the most influential Christians on Twitter according to the New York Times are Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, and - [Peaceful at Pentecost](https://anitamathias.com/2017/06/03/peaceful-at-pentecost/) - When the Spirit comes at Pentecost, and we become a different person. And thoughts on Mindfulness, walking, and writing! - [The Risk of Birth, An Advent Poem by Madeleine L'Engle](https://anitamathias.com/2012/11/11/the-risk-of-birth-by-madeleine-lengle/) - This is no time for a child to be born, With the earth betrayed by war & hate And a comet slashing the sky to warn That time runs out & the sun burns late. That was no time for a child to be born, In a land in the crushing grip of Rome; Honour - [When God says "Go,"](https://anitamathias.com/2014/11/02/november/) - Franklin Graham, "“When we truly pray, we do not move God to ourselves, but ourselves to God. A small boat nears shore, and a man throws a rope and anchor toward a sandy beach. He, then, when the anchor has bitten into the sand, pulls on the rope and draws the boat up on the - [Failing Better: A New Year's Resolution, of sorts](https://anitamathias.com/2017/01/11/on-failing-better/) - Failing better is a real though odd form of success... and it is my New Year's resolution! - [Burn-Out Vanishes When We Rediscover Purpose](https://anitamathias.com/2016/12/19/burn-out-vanishes-when-we-rediscover-purpose/) - Burn-out lifts when we discover purpose. - [Childhood Christian Reading](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/childhood-christian-reading/) - I read, rapidly, undiscriminatingly, anything, everything, religious or secular. An extended family of nuns and priests assured us a plentiful supply of moral and religious books, in addition to what our parents bought us, hoping, with the haphazard hope of parents everywhere, that encountering these tales of virtue, heroism and faith would burnish us with - [Brexit and Deep Peace in Turbulent Times](https://anitamathias.com/2016/06/26/brexit-and-deep-peace-in-turbulent-times/) - On finding the deep peace of the children of God amid the v. bad news of the Brexit vote. On finding the silver which lines everything, for God put it there - [On Prayer-Walking, Seeking the Kingdom and Getting it All Thrown in](https://anitamathias.com/2016/06/20/prayer-walking-seeking-kingdom-getting-thrown-2/) - The best things in life come when we are focused on other, better things. When we seek the Kingdom, seek Jesus 1st, we get other dreamy things thrown in too - [On Living Life Single-hearted and Double-handed](https://anitamathias.com/2016/06/04/on-living-life-single-hearted-and-double-handed/) - In which following Jesus is the very best retirement plan. Being single-hearted and double-handed in following him is the very best preparation for old age! - [Biggest Losers, Grace, and Silver Linings](https://anitamathias.com/2016/05/27/biggest-losers-grace-silver-linings/) - Recovering health can be a lifelong battle, but God's grace, goodness and mercy shines through it. There are silver linings & blessings! - [On the Surprising Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2016/05/18/on-the-physical-and-mental-health-benefits-of-forgiveness/) - On the surprising physical & mental health benefits of forgiveness. It's good for our physical health, as well as our souls, wh. is why Jesus commanded it! - [The Lord is my Pacemaker by Toki Miyashina](https://anitamathias.com/2009/04/05/the-lord-is-my-pacemaker/) - The Lord is my Pacemaker The Lord is my pacemaker - I shall not rush. He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals: He provides me with images of stillness, Which restore my serenity. He leads me in ways of efficiency Through calmness of mind, and His guidance is peace. Even though I - [The True Fairy Tale of the Life of Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury](https://anitamathias.com/2016/05/10/true-fairy-tale-of-the-life-of-justin-welby-archbishop-canterbury/) - For believers in Christ, who transforms everything, life can, astonishingly, resemble a fairy tale--as in the life of Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury - [The Ten Habits of the Happy Christian](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/15/ten-habits-happy-christian/) - Irene Mathias, aged 4 1 Seek Happiness George Mueller considered happiness the normal emotional state of the Christian. “I saw more clearly than ever, that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not, - [Yes, Praise the Lord Anyway. (Even for Loss and Fleas!)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/25/yes-praise-lord-anyway-even-loss-fleas/) - Betsie, Corrie and Nollie Ten Boom : The Righteous Among the Nations Praise the Lord anyway, because he is creative. He can create diamonds out of mud, coal, rock and the bones of dead creatures. Brute facts are just inert materials in his hands, and from this unpromising argon, krypton, xenon, he can bring forth goodness and beauty. - [Which Prophet Are You? On Being Content with Who You Are, and Renouncing Comparisons](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/12/prophet-content-comparing/) - If Habbukuk tried to be as weighty as Isaiah or Jeremiah, he'd have exhausted himself for nothing. He was exquisite & jewelly & just as quoted! Be yourself! - [Light the Flare of Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/06/light-flare-prayer/) - If you're stranded in the snowy Alps Light a flare. Often, a helicopter Closes in, dropping A flask of hot chocolate Toblerone, brandy. With luck, a St. Bernard might be on his way. * * * In the steamy forests Cut off by a tsunami Light a flare Wait for the air - [When the Lack of Joy Constitutes an Emergency: Martin Luther on Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/19/lack-joy-constitutes-emergency-martin-luther-prayer/) - Martin Luther’s barber, Peter, asked him how to pray. Luther “ without doubt, at the time, one of the busiest and most hard-pressed men in the Electorate of Saxony, if not in the whole of Europe,” goes home immediately, and replies to this humble, unimportant parishioner. Such, such are men and women whom God blesses! - [On the Benefits of Writing Down Our Prayers](https://anitamathias.com/2016/04/19/benefits-writing-prayers/) - Writing down our prayers is a way of focusing our dreamy wandering thoughts on prayer. It somehow makes what we are praying for more focused, more real! - [God Breathes Stars--and Honour on His Beloved](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/08/god-breathes-stars-honour/) - We, panickedly, strive to climb to the top of our ant-heaps, forgetting that God breathes star & honour if we will ask him to. - [In which Christ can heal the fierce memories of the past](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/15/christ-can-heal-fierce-memories-past/) - “The past is never dead. It's not even past.” William Faulkner, Requiem for a Nun. Keats, sitting down to read King Lear again, feels torn between anticipation and the dread of immersing himself again in this scabrous tragedy. Once again the fierce dispute, Betwixt damnation and impassion'd clay Must I burn through; once more humbly assay The bitter-sweet of this Shakespearian - [Visiting Blenheim Palace: Thoughts on Creativity, Envy and the Good Life](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/11/visiting-blenheim-palace-thoughts-creativity-envy-good-life/) - View from the palace, showing the island. Image credit. I’ve lived in Oxford for 14 years now (in two instalments) and try to walk around the Blenheim Gardens and grounds once a year, if not once a season. I love the lakes: they get me. And, often, when I visit the gorgeous gardens of stately homes, - [“Thin Places,” Where the Boundaries between the Spiritual and Physical Worlds are Almost Transparent](https://anitamathias.com/2015/04/02/thin-places-where-the-boundaries-between-the-spiritual-and-physical-world-are-almost-transparent/) - On Thin Places where the boundaries between the physical & spiritual worlds are transparent. The sea, mountains, pilgrimage spots, one's own house & garden! - [Sealed Orders](https://anitamathias.com/2016/04/10/66302/) - God guides us step by step. In a sense, we go through life under "sealed orders." - [In Which--Fortunately--Our Progress in the Spiritual Life Is Dependent on Grace and the Spirit, Not Our Hard Work](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/21/phew-progress-spiritual-life-dependent-grace-rather-efforts/) - In which the spiritual life is always dependent on God's grace, and not on our self-effort, but we too often forget that. - [At the End of Broken Dreams, an Open Door](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/22/at-the-end-of-broken-dreams-an-open-door/) - At the end of broken dreams, an open door. At the end of every death, a resurrection. For nothing in this world truly dies; "dead" seeds reappear as fruit. - [Surprised: When Exercise and Prayer Provide Similar Benefits](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/05/surprised-when-exercise-and-prayer-give-much-the-same-results/) - Surprised by how both exercise and prayer can turn a day around, bringing strength, clarity, focus, endurance, endorphins, a good mood & concentration! - [The Best Physical Positions for Prayer.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/17/the-physical-postures-which-best-befit-prayer/) - A few years ago, Roy and I were hunting for a small home group in our church which would be a good fit for us. We went to a small group, and had a nice, warm, welcoming meal with them. Then came worship. Everyone stood. I sat on the couch, put my head down and - [Wriggling towards Shalom](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/10/wriggling-towards-shalom/) - On pausing when stressed, and surrendering your fear to God, asking him to avert what you fear, while accepting that his grace is sufficient anyway - [Goodbye to Everest](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/02/goodbye-to-everest/) - Some dreams must be abandoned--like some writing projects. Nonetheless, they have enriched your life. - [The Only Form of Multitasking that makes you Cleverer](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/16/the-only-form-of-multitasking-that-makes-you-cleverer/) - Whereas multitasking diminishes one's fluid intelligence drastically, there is one form of multitasking which actually increases one's intelligence. - [Hope for Limping Christians. Changing your Character is both an Act of Will and an Act of Grace](https://anitamathias.com/2016/03/13/hope-limping-christians-changing-character-act-will-act-grace/) - Christians change their characters both by an act of will and thought, and through the invisible action of grace on their souls. But change we do! - [On Choosing Happiness Today](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/25/on-choosing-happiness-today/) - For if we do not learn to be happy in our present, we may not be happy in the future we dream of, for happiness lies within us. - [Leaving “A Little Juice”—One Secret of Persisting in Running, Writing, and Living Well](https://anitamathias.com/2016/02/25/leaving-a-little-juice-one-secret-of-persisting-in-running-writing-and-living-well/) - Leaving a little juice-at the end of your run, your writing session, your day--that's one secret of long-term persistence in running, writing or living well - [On Nourishment for the Soul](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/19/nourishment-soul/) - Just as pebbles show their true glory when washed by the sea, we shine when we are in alignment with God, cleansed, refreshed and bathed by his love - [Murakami's "What I Talk about When I Talk about Running": The Connection between the Creative Life and Exercise](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/22/murakamis-what-i-talk-about-when-i-talk-about-running/) - Available on Amazon.com I am thoroughly enjoying listening to Haruki Murakami’s “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running,” as I am trying to learn to run (using the NHS Couch to 5K app.) When Murakami began to write full-time, he gained weight. “If I wanted to have a long life as a novelist, - [Seeking a God's Eye View of Success](https://anitamathias.com/2016/02/18/seeking-a-gods-eye-view-on-success/) - Success is a wise investment of the gifts God has given us. Success is relative, but is God's desire for us. Surrender to Christ is a shortcut to success. - [E J H Nash, the Man who Converted Justin Welby, Nicky Gumbel, John Stott, David Watson and Michael Green](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/08/e-j-h-nash-the-man-who-converted-michael-green-john-stott-david-watson-and-nicky-gumbel/) - Nash, wikipedia I listened to Michael Green preach on Sunday at St. Andrew's, Oxford. I last heard him, oh 25 years ago, as an undergraduate. I remember dropping in to St. Aldate's when I was feeling overwhelmed because a lot of my friends went there. I wouldn't have called myself a Christian, though his - ["God is at the Bottom of the Laundry Basket" and other Half-Truths We Tell Christian Women](https://anitamathias.com/2012/08/09/god-at-the-bottom-of-the-laundry-basket-or-the-disasters-when-men-counsel-women/) - I read this on the blog of my good friend, Paul . Mystics can also get stuck in their depravity and not move out in love. I discipled a brilliant, educated couple once because the wife wanted to “experience Jesus” more. As I got into their lives, I told her that Jesus was at the bottom on - [In which God Multiplies Our Creativity, Our Time and Our Talents](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/15/god-multiplies-creativity/) - Image Credit I have no difficulty in believing the Gospel accounts of healings, but the feeding of the 5000 leaves me dazzled. Now how exactly did that happen? However, it's easier to believe it than to believe that Matthew, Mark, and John, eyewitnesses, were deliberately lying. So, though my rational mind boggles, yes, I believe it - [Zapping Negativity and Worry Through Prayer and Faith](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/07/zapping-negativity-and-worry-through-prayer-and-faith/) - Dr. Barbara Fredrickson in her book Positivity ( Norman Vincent Peale with data) says that “experiencing positive emotions in a 3-to-1 ratio to negative ones leads people to a tipping point beyond which they naturally become more resilient to adversity and effortlessly achieve what they once could only imagine.” And how do we do experience three positive - [First Things First, Pomodoros, A Schedule and Progress on New Year’s Goals](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/30/first-things-first-pomodoros-a-schedule-and-progress-on-new-years-goals/) - C. S. Lewis famously said, “When first things are put first, second things don’t diminish, they increase. You can’t get second things by putting them first; you can get second things only by putting first things first.” Michael Hyatt spells this out this work-life balance. - [On Re-Learning the Beautiful Art of Friendship](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/10/re-learning-beautiful-art-friendship/) - On relearning the beautiful art of friendship, of loving others as we love ourselves, of cutting ourselves and others slack - [On Not Despising Deliverance](https://anitamathias.com/2016/02/10/on-not-despising-deliverance/) - “Do not despise prophecy,” the Apostle Paul says, somewhat surprisingly. Why would we despise it? Because we tend to suspect what we do not understand? Or because prophecy can attract fools, charlatans, the unstable, and conmen seeking to gain power over others—as well as, of course, those who can genuinely tune into God? I no - [The Power to Change Comes from Christ in Us, Our Hope of Glory](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/09/power-change-comes-christ-us-hope-glory/) - A mosaic in Ravenna, made of millions of broken tessarae of glass and enamel The principle runs through all life from top to bottom. Give up yourself, and you will find your real self. Lose your life and you will save it. Submit to death, death of your ambitions and favourite wishes every day: - [On a Double Portion of the Anointing, and a Secret History with the Lord](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/08/double-portion-anointing-secret-history-lord/) - When Elijah was about to be taken up to heaven, he asks his acolyte Elisha, “What can I do for you?” And Elisha, with simple and ambitious faith, asks “Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” (2 Kings 2:9). And so he does. For the asking, so to say. For the asking took faith, which - [One Secret of Joy: Be More Dog](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/07/be-more-dog/) - So what's the secret of a dog’s wild energy and wagging tail? Their warm heart, their boundless capacity for love? Their short memories, their natural ability to forgive? Be more dog. http://youtu.be/yu9sWjnJFHU And here is Jake the Collie, in the buttercup meadow behind my house And me and Merry, my Labradoodle - [On How Forgiveness Sets Us as Free as a Falcon](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/06/falcons-forgiveness/) - The captive falcon soars, riding the winds, reaching for the clouds, until she reaches the limits of her leash. And then, at the will of the falconer, she is reeled down. Earthbound! The wild eagle, however, soars high, and higher still, effortlessly, soaring on thermal currents, using even obstruction currents to rise higher. * * - [Les Miserables: The Film Akin to a Spiritual Experience](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/05/les-miserables-film-akin-spiritual-experience/) - Can watching a film, a mere film, be a spiritual experience? Well, watching Les Misérables was a spiritual experience for me. As I watched, I was repenting, recommitting my life to Christ, surrendering to him again, resolving to read the Gospels more, to live by their beautiful way of love and mercy. * * * Under - [When I Forgot About My Buried Treasure](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/04/forgot-buried-treasure/) - My beloved home In your distress you called and I rescued you, “I removed the burden from your shoulders; your hands were set free from the basket. (Psalm 81: 6-10) My life has had many zigzags, and almost all the upward spikes happened because of direction received in times of prayer. This verse marks one - [In which our Sehnsucht, Restless Longings, are Really a Longing for God Himself](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/03/grace-gift-good-despite-sehnsucht-indefinable-longings/) - Image: My Photograph of St. Paul's Bay in Malta So we are looking forward to our half-term holiday—to sleeping in, no stress, family movies...and especially to getting away. * * * The funny thing is, we had all that—sleeping in, staying up late, family movies, luscious meals, creaking family dinner tables, and travel-- last summer (when - [RIP Buttercup Duck! On Accepting Your Actual Life](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/30/rip-buttercup-duck-and-accepting-your-actual-life/) - The tall thin Indian Runner was killed; the fat Aylesbury mourns Climbing out of our pond When I was a child, I had a huge, fat bunny, two hens, two ducks and a dog. We had a large house with an acre around it. When we bought a house in the English countryside in - [A Rough Guide to Dealing with Anger](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/02/rough-guide-dealing-anger/) - Image Credit Jamie the Very Worst Missionary writes: Sometimes we look pretty Godless, El Chupacabra (her husband) and I. And it's not because we're some hipster Christians who act that way on purpose to be “relevant” or something. It's because we're just not letting God in, to be part of what we're doing here on His Earth. - [Who can Stand Before Jealousy?](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/28/can-stand-jealousy/) - Who can Stand Before Jealousy? (Prov. 27:4). If Joseph, whose story in Genesis I am re-reading, realised the dangers of provoking jealousy, he could have avoided 20 hard years. Joseph, his father’s favourite, given an glorious robe.... His brothers, of course, “hated him, and could not speak a kind word to him.” Joseph, whose dreams are - [In which God Creates Beauty from My Mistakes](https://anitamathias.com/2015/01/26/god-creates-beauty-mistakes/) - In which God takes our mistakes & folly, & crafts surprises from them, not the life we intended, but the good life we now have, bursting with possibility. - [Why I Am No Longer a Roman Catholic](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/26/longer-roman-catholic/) - I was brought up Roman Catholic, was taught that missing Sunday Mass was a mortal sin, except when you were sick. (And a mortal sin meant you would burn in hell, for eternity, unless you confessed it, and were absolved.) How could I have believed that? Children believe what they are taught. It’s taken me - [How To Turn a Salty Heart Sweet Again](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/14/when-the-bitter-salty-waters-of-the-heart-turn-sweet-again/) - With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and saltwater flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or - [England: A Rhapsody](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/25/england-rhapsody/) - I love England. I have now lived for at least 14 years each in three continents--Asia, America and Europe. If I could live anywhere I chose, I would choose England (as I have). (And if I could choose any English town to live in, I would choose Oxford--as I have.) As I walked down the - [Thorns, Flesh and Unanswered Prayers](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/24/thorns-flesh-and-unanswered-prayers/) - In a poignant and fascinating chapter, Paul, somewhat coyly, talks about a man (himself) who received visions and revelations, was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things. But alongside these “surpassingly great revelations” he had “a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord - [Change your Words, Change your Emotions](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/05/365-project-lessons-and-wisdom-learned-at-the-coalface/) - Speed-reading "just this one." Jake, the Collie, finds a spot to rest his weary head. I finally started a massive project —getting rid of all the books from my second-hand books business which I had for a couple of intensive years, and a couple of desultory years. Progress, as you can see, was slow. * * * - [How Blogging Connects me to the Church's Liturgical Year](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/14/living-liturgically-blogging-and-the-liturgical-year/) - Years ago, a friend of mine, married to a pastor, said happily, “Oh, I love Advent.” Advent? Christmas was all that concerned me—cards, letters, presents, parties. One of the things I have enjoyed about Christian blogging is being connected to the church’s liturgical year. Several of my fellow Christian bloggers in England are Anglican clergy-people - [365 Project: Failures are the Stepping Stones to Success, or You can only steer a moving car](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/03/365-project-failures-are-the-stepping-stones-to-success-or-you-can-only-steer-a-moving-car/) - I can't resist speed-reading even as I sort!! As I wrote, I had a second-hand books business from May 2006 until July 2007,and then, with decreasing intensity, concurrently with my publishing business for another couple of years. It gave me the idea for publishing, and lots of hands-on experience with books and selling, and - ["You can tell the depth of a man's walk with God by looking at the countenance of his wife's face," Bill McCartney, Founder of Promise Keepers](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/03/you-can-tell-the-depth-of-a-mans-walk-with-god-by-looking-at-the-countenance-of-his-wifes-face-bill-mccartney-founder-of-promise-keepers/) - You can tell the depth of a man's walk with God by looking at the countenance of his wife's face: Bill McCartney, Founder of Promise Keepers. Bill McCartney was formerly the head football coach at the University of Colorado, and led his team to the national championship in 1990. He said, “My last year as - [Common Grace: Or Why God Loves Classical Music, Zen Habits and The Happiness Project](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/22/common-grace-or-why-god-loves-classical-music-zen-habits-and-the-happiness-project/) - So I was tidying our bedroom today, putting my stack of CDs back into their cases and listening to Stravinsky, glorious music filling the room. And though I had been in a bad mood, for no good reason, ungrateful girl that I am, my bad mood lifted. I unconsciously started praying in tongues. I started - [Emotional and Psychological Healing through the Grace and Mercy of God](https://anitamathias.com/2012/03/10/emotional-and-psychological-healing-through-the-grace-and-mercy-of-god/) - Image credit All my life, I have longed to have sudden healing, a sudden breaking of addictions through the power of God, a sudden change of the deep structure of my personality. But sudden and dramatic change has never happened for me. It’s been slow, slow, slow. * * * Well, after - [Ten Blessings from One of the Hardest and Most Difficult Periods of my Life](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/01/ten-blessings-from-one-of-the-hardest-and-most-difficult-periods-of-my-life/) - A corner of my study. As you can see, I have kept too many books!! I have enjoyed Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts which examines how giving thanks in everything changes one's perspective and mental state. Many events in our past which we view as tragedies or failures are, in fact, just seeds. They may - [Some DVDs I've enjoyed: The King’s Speech, Life of Pi, and The Hobbit](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/16/what-i-am-into-the-film-edition-life-of-pi-the-hobbit-the-kings-speech/) - The King’s Speech—I loved it. Partly because my father had immigrated to England in the forties and fifties when George VI was King. My father was imaginative, and read the newspapers like a novel, and made the events of the forties as real to us as the plot of any story he told us. - [The Gift of Limits. The Gift of Learning to Say No](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/19/gift-limits-gift-learning-say/) - Here's a striking story from The Emotionally Healthy Church by Pete Scazzero. Rabbi Edwin Friedman tells the story of a man who had given much thought to what he wanted from life. After trying many things, succeeding at some and failing at others, he finally decided what he wanted. One day the opportunity came for - [Writing with the Wind of the Wild Goose of the Holy Spirit in your Wings](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/18/writing-wild-goose-holy-spirit/) - Wild Geese fly in a V formation. The lead goose reduces the wind resistance; the others glide, almost effortlessly, in the currents she has created. During a storm, the eagle waits perched on the edge of its nest for the wind to gain sufficient velocity. Once she knows the direction in which the - [See What God is Blessing and Join it (Bono)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/17/see-god-blessing-join-bono/) - I used to pray the way Bono says he did: In countless ways, big and small, I was always seeking the Lord’s blessing. I’d be saying, “Look, I’ve got a new song…Would you look out [for it]. I have a family; I’m going away on tour — please look after them. I have this - [On How Elephants Can Escape Their Chains, and We Can Too](https://anitamathias.com/2016/01/15/elephants-chains/) - Elephants, majestic, loveable, gentle beasts, are tamed by cruel means I hate reading about in Thailand, principally, in Nepal, in India and in Malaysia. A common trick, less cruel than the others though, is this. The elephant is initially chained to a tree with heavy chains. Later, however, the mahouts don’t bother to attach the - [Choosing Books, Films and Peace: Whatever is True, Noble, Pure, Lovely, Admirable](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/10/a-guide-to-choosing-books-films-and-peace-whatever-is-true-noble-pure-lovely-admirable-phil-48/) - In an orgy of decluttering, I am giving all these books away! Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. And the God of peace will be with you. (Phil 4:8). This is Paul’s prescription - [Reunion with Lost Pets](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/02/reunion-with-lost-pets/) - My pet rabbits Empress and Bandit 'And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honour and glory and might forever and ever!”' (Rev 5:13). Every - [Aspects of the Blessings of Failure](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/02/aspects-of-the-blessings-of-failure/) - A ruined church -- from New Zealand's war archive, 1918. Here are three posts from other bloggers on a subject no one wants to consider so soon in a New Year. And may this year be a year of blessing for all of us. Failure is an option Jessica talks about the pain of a - [In which I pursue happiness and the bluebird of joy,](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/01/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/) - We all stayed up to see in the New Year with marzipan fruit cake, and Bailey's Irish Cream, even Zoe and Irene. Then today, since all of us are somewhat more introverted than extroverted, we decided everyone could be happy in their own way. I read, prayed, blogged, wrote, and went for a solitary walk. - [G.K. Chesterton on Joy (from Orthodoxy)](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/09/g-k-chesterton-on-joy-from-orthodoxy/) - It is said that Paganism is a religion of joy and Christianity of sorrow; it would be just as easy to prove that Paganism is pure sorrow and Christianity pure joy. Such conflicts mean nothing and lead nowhere. Everything human must have in it both joy and sorrow; the only matter of interest is the - [In Praise of Gardening](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/13/in-praise-of-gardening/) - (A hellebore from my garden on Easter Sunday last year) Here’s a lyrical passage from Barbara Kingsolver’s Animal, Vegetable, Miracle Gardening provides rewards far beyond the vegetable paycheck. It gets a body outside for some part of every day to work the heart, lungs, and muscles you wouldn’t believe existed, providing a healthy balance to - [Never be Shamed or Humiliated by How Other People Treat You](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/12/never-be-shamed-or-humiliated-by-how-other-people-treat-you/) - Tarquin rapes the innocent Lucretia. Lucretia kills herself. She becomes the prototype of people who feel shamed because of things done to them, shamed to the point of death, as we read in media account of Indian girls or their fathers who commit suicide after gang-rape. Listen up: I tell myself, and I would wish to - [From Babel to Pentecost: God Thwarts Self-Sufficiency Which Excludes Him (but Blesses Leaning)](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/10/god-thwarts-prideful-independence-but-blesses-leaning/) - Genesis 11 So men decide to build a ziggurat, “with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves.” (Gen. 11:4) And God thwarts their ambition. Their confident, well-coordinated, carefully-worked-out, imaginative, forward-looking plans. If they continued to function in this way, these steady, methodical visionaries, making bricks, baking - [An Immensely Abundant Universe. Seeds as a Solution to World Hunger](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/11/an-immensely-abundant-universe-seeds-as-a-solution-to-world-hunger/) - Barbara Kingsolver’s describes her marvellously productive garden in her memoir of a gardening year, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. We spent the July 4th weekend applying rock lime to the beans and eggplants to discourage beetles, and tying up the waist-high tomato vines to four-foot cages and stakes. In February, each of these plants had been a - [In which there is Poetic Justice, for God is a Poet, but there is also Mercy](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/10/poetic-justice-god-poet-also-mercy/) - Even while Esau was out hunting his father’s favourite wild game, Jacob and Rebecca slaughtered and cooked two choice young goats. Jacob served these to Isaac, pretending to be Esau, stealing Esau's blessing. A cruel deception. And, uncannily, years later, in his own old age, Jacob’s sons sold his favourite son into slavery, dipping Joseph’s precious robe in - [The Last Human Freedom: To Choose One's Own Attitude in Any Circumstances (From Viktor Frankl, Man's Search for Meaning)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/11/last-human-freedom-choose-ones-attitude-circumstances/) - I just stumbled upon a Facebook photograph of an older person I know, in her seventies. Her face was sad, so sad. It was chilling. Viktor Frankl, the psychologist who was in a Nazi concentration camp, believed that our last human freedom is that we get to choose the attitude we will adopt in any circumstances. - [In Which I Tell You about a Weighty Battle](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/31/tell-weighty-battle/) - Obesity Influences Have you had “one step forward, one and half step backward” struggles, otherwise known as the dread vicious circle? I am delighted to say that, at the moment, I do not have any vicious circles in my life—those nightmare phases of life where everything you do has unintended negative consequences. You know: You - [On “Defining Decisions” Rather Than New Year's Resolutions](https://anitamathias.com/2016/01/09/defining-decisions-not-resolutions/) - Image Credit Mark Batterson, in The Circle-Maker, a fascinating book on a prayer, praises “defining decisions,” that set the course of your life, sort of like choosing whether you drive to Slovenia (which our family did last summer), or to Scotland (which we might do this summer). I made three defining decisions in my twenties. - [When I almost missed the Uffizi Gallery, Florence](https://anitamathias.com/2016/01/07/almost-missed-uffizi-gallery-florence/) - The Doni Tondo, a rare canvas painting by Michealangelo. Scroll down for more images. I spent the first Sunday of January 2106 at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. It was free, and advice online, as well as unsolicited advice on Facebook warned me that the lines were horrendous. But visiting Florence and not spending a - [Pascal's Memorial--His Experience of God and "Joy, Joy, Joy, Tears of Joy."](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/04/pascals-memorial-his-experience-of-god-and-shattering-joy/) - Blaise Pascal I love Pascal's Memorial. I particularly love how words and sequential thought fail this brilliant, cerebral, verbal man. He is describing something from a different world--a world beyond words and logic. What a joy to so lose oneself in God!! I have dipped my toes into these waters. Pascal's experience, however, led to - [Beth Moore, wonderful Bible teacher: "God has me on a Keychain"](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/06/beth-moore-wonderful-bible-teacher-god-has-me-on-a-keychain/) - I love Beth Moore. I have led at least a half dozen of her studies, and recommend them for keeping your spiritual intensity at fever-pitch! Oddly enough, I often think of her saying, "God has me on a keychain," partly because I don't really understand it. I think she meant that her life put so - [Epiphanies and Revelations](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/06/epiphanies-and-revelations/) - Well, today, January 6th, is the feast of the Epiphany, or the Revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. Epiphany, epi-to, phainein—show, reveal, manifest. The word used for the moment when a peacock suddenly unfurls his magnificent tail, and we see the full, hitherto hidden glory. - [When the Word of God Can Transform Your Life, and, More, Save It](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/04/when-the-word-of-god-can-save-your-life/) - On holiday in Copenhagen, I learned in the fabulous Danish National Museum that Ice Age Hunters could walk from Jutland, Denmark to England. After the great deluge, (probably triggered by the melting of the North American glaciers) described in the myths of hundreds of cultures, it was no longer possible. In Genesis 6-10, we read how Noah, “a righteous man, - [The Insistent Goodness of the Lord in the Land of the Living](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/01/the-insistent-goodness-of-the-lord-in-the-land-of-the-living/) - A New Year, and I begin again to read through the Bible. I listened to it last year, on my iPod, as I walked, and loved hearing the themes and images swell, gain resonance, repeat, amplify. There are so many mythologies, so many sacred texts that have come down to us. I know the Greek - [“I Don’t” Lists Make Possible “I Do” Lists. You Must Revise Your Life.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/05/i-dont-lists-make-possible-i-do-lists-you-must-revise-your-life/) - Two fiery, uncompromising men—John the Baptist and Jesus-- invite us into the Kingdom of God, the Kingdom within us (Luke 17:21). And their message is remarkably similar:“Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is near. Make straight paths for the Lord,” John says. The first words Jesus speaks to people (as opposed to the Devil) in - [When People Mess up the Story of your Life, but God Edits it Beautifully](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/02/people-mess-story-life-god-edits-beautifully/) - The Flight into Egypt and the Triumph of the Innocents (William Holman Hunt) As I read Matthew 2, I realise how much misery and hassle and stress Joseph and Mary and Jesus had to endure for no sin or mistake of their own—but purely because of their destiny, purely because of other people’s jealousy. Herod - [Opening a New Chapter, a New Year, under God's Secret Service Protection](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/29/opening-new-chapter-new-year-gods-secret-service-protection/) - Image: Christ in glory in front of the Heavenly Jerusalem, (Mosaic, Burne-Jones, St. Paul's within the walls, Rome) I listened to the entire Bible on my iPhone this year—the NIV’s dramatised edition-- as I walked the country trails around Oxfordshire. And the year dies spectacularly as one walks listening to Revelation—chilling, majestic, dramatic. His - [I Said to the Man who Stood at the Gate of the Year](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/30/said-man-stood-gate-year/) - Image credit I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year 'Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.' And he replied, 'Go into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God That shall be to you better than light and safer than a - [A week in France (Boulogne-sur-Mer, St-Denys, Chartres, and Paris)](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/29/week-france-boulogne-sur-mer-st-denys-chartres-paris/) - I am looking at a year's worth of photographs in this liminal week between Christmas and New Year. Here are some images from the Channel Port of Boulogne-sur-Mer, a medieval French walled town, with narrow cobbled streets. We walked along the battlements, which were a mile, to the delight of Merry the Labradoodle, and enjoyed a market garden - [Chronos and Chairos: Time and God's Time](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/07/chronos-and-chairos-time-and-gods-time/) - There were two words for time in koine Greek, Chairos and Chronos. Chronos was clock time, sequential time. Chairos was special: "the right time," God's Time. Jesus points out the difference when he tells his disciples. "The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right," John 7.6. In fact, there are constant - [Praise the Lord for Fleas and Lice](https://anitamathias.com/2012/03/30/praise-the-lord-for-fleas-and-lice/) - Here is Corrie Ten Boom's famous flea story from The Hiding Place. We lay back, struggling against the nausea that swept over us from the reeking straw. ..Suddenly I sat up, striking my head on the cross-slats above. Something had pinched my leg. "'Fleas!' I cried. 'Betsie, the place is swarming with them!' "'Here! And here - [Analysing my Experience of Prayer over the Last 19 Years](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/19/analysing-my-experience-of-prayer-over-the-last-19-years/) - So I come to my time of prayer, and I am dry and distracted. My thoughts are whirling; I cannot hear God speak, and I have nothing to say. My spirit feels numb. Prayer? It’s as if you are having coffee with a friend you haven’t seen for a while, and you are so out - [Martin Luther didn't say that, did he? Yes, he did!](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/29/martin-luther-didnt-say-that-did-he-yes-he-did/) - “You have as much laughter as you have faith.” “The dog is the most faithful of animals and would be much esteemed were it not so common. Our Lord God has made His greatest gifts the commonest.” “Be thou comforted, little dog, Thou too in Resurrection shall have a little golden tail” “If you want - [Stephen King’s Immensely Helpful Book “On Writing”](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/24/stephen-kings-immensely-helpful-book-on-writing/) - King’s short book, On Writing, figures in many writers’ lists of the best books on writing. And deservedly so. It has motivated me to get my writing shoes on, and get writing. I listened to it read by King himself on my iPod, while running—on pedestrian country footpaths, and, so far, with more luck than King - [The staggering rewards promised in the Gospels (C. S. Lewis)](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/25/c-s-lewis-staggering-rewards/) - If we consider the unblushing promises of reward and the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an - [On a Shortcut into Happiness](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/12/on-a-shortcut-into-happiness/) - When we sleep, I have read, the unconscious begins to process, resolve, and heal the buried emotions of the day. That little inadvertent thing which seemed so massively embarrassing, but which everyone else has forgotten. The awkwardness, the stresses, the misunderstandings, the little buffetings of the heart. Anxieties, shame, fears, tensions, and triumphs--we relive them, - [7 things I learned from Simon Vibert’s “Stress: The Path to Peace”](https://anitamathias.com/2015/07/29/7-things-i-learned-from-simon-viberts-stress-the-path-to-peace/) - Stress is a red light. However, once we learn to deal with it through exercise, planning, relaxation, rest, trust & surrender, it becomes a pathway to peace - [Is “ending those Muslims,” as Falwell advises, the way of Jesus? Aren’t there other ways?](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/06/is-ending-those-muslims-as-falwell-advises-the-way-of-jesus-arent-there-other-ways/) - So the President of Liberty University, Jerry Falwell Jr., patting the gun in his back pocket, has called on the 14,500 students of Liberty University, the world’s largest Christian University, to carry concealed guns, and “end those Muslims,” thereby (somewhat belatedly!) “teaching them a lesson.” Everything about that statement is so alien to the values - [Spring by Amy Lowell](https://anitamathias.com/2007/05/20/spring-by-amy-lowell/) - Spring By Amy Lowell Sunlight, Three Marigolds And a dusky, purple poppy-pod- Out of these I made a beautiful world. Amy Lowell. - [My Children's Book: Francesco, Artist of Florence, The Man Who Gave Too Much. With reviews](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/15/reviews-excerpt-childrens-book-francesco-artist-florence-man-gave-much/) - Reviews and an extensive excerpt from my first children's book, Francesco, Artist of Florence - [In which the Kindly Light of Christ can Heal our Worst Memories](https://anitamathias.com/2015/12/04/in-which-the-kindly-light-of-christ-can-heal-our-worst-memories/) - Sometimes, in a dream, or sudden flashback, I remember something dark, frightening, shame-producing, upsetting or infuriating from my past. I guess you do too. It’s part of being human. One way to deal with uncomfortable emotions is through what Brené Brown in Daring Greatly calls numbing—surfing the internet, binge-watching TV, food, overwork, oversleeping, Facebook. Putting - [Lead Kindly Light, by John Henry Newman](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/03/lead-kindly-light/) - Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom Lead thou me on; The night is dark, and I am far from home, Lead thou me on. Keep thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene; one step enough for me. I was not for ever thus, nor prayed that thou Shouldst - [Blessed are the Failures](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/04/blessed-are-the-failures-2/) - Blessed are the broken, Blessed are the failures, Who set out to do glorious things Everest, Antarctica… higher, faster, stronger, first Whose bright promise was praised And they believed their press. Who have schemed and striven and intrigued, Only to find themselves with empty hands After they wrestle though the night with the Mysterious One - [Converting a Gray Plot into Wild Spirals of Colour](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/07/converting-a-gray-plot-into-wild-spirals-of-colour/) - When the stream of our lives Seems to vanish into desert sands, and we wonder if we've lost our way, When between our talent and output, Between our aspiration and achievement. Falls the shadow, When we have reaped less than we’ve planted And we wonder if we’ve given our children Solid skills for - [Christmases Past and Present](https://anitamathias.com/2010/12/25/christmases-past-and-present/) - We're having an Oxford Christmas today and like Scrooge, I am thinking of Christmases past. Oxford and Christmas. Both words come to me freighted with so many associations, memories, traditions, books, films, experiences. Our family said that we would go to the Christmas Day service at our church, St. Aldate's which usually does all things - [In Which There is Always Room](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/13/in-which-there-is-always-room/) - Image Credit How He changed everything, The One for whom there was no room. And now, it’s forever Different. “Come in,” he says, “Welcome.” “There’s always room.” “Room for the straight, and room for the crooked, Room for the queer and room for the odd, Room when you’ve messed up, and are so sorry Room - [The Creative's Planner, 2016](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/09/creatives-planner-2016/) - A tool to help you plan, organize and track your creative life, and your life. - [The Church That Had Too Much](https://anitamathias.com/2012/11/20/the-church-that-had-too-much/) - On holiday in Ireland in 2010, I woke up from a vivid dream, which I have here written down. It's available on Amazon.com and on Amazon.co.uk. The Church That Had Too Much Once upon a time, there was a church that Had Too Much. Now the members of this church worked very hard with great - [The Holy Ground of Kalighat](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/17/the-holy-ground-of-kalighat/) - My brief memoir on volunteering with Mother Teresa is including in Philip Zaleski's Best Spiritual Writing, and is included in my book, Wandering Between Two Worlds (amazon.com) or on amazon.co.uk Kalighat, the Home of the Dying Destitute, was the toughest assignment in the Missionaries of Charity convent, reputedly reserved for the mature. But I was greedy for challenge - [My Minimalistic and Opted-Out Christmases](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/13/my-minimalist-and-opted-out-christmases/) - There was a time when I did Christmas. Wrote and addressed a stack of Christmas cards and letters-a depressing, burdensome chore when all I wanted to do was read and write. Made family collages to enclose with them. Made Christmas cake and Christmas cookies. Set up the tree. And lights. And decorations. Bought the kids - [In which I am Against (Most) Military Interventions, & Musing on Invisible Weapons of the Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/2015/11/23/war-peace-power-invisible-weapons-spirit/) - My church, St. Andrew’s, Oxford, is experimenting with a café church format; a couple of worship songs, and then a brief sermon which we we discuss in small groups. Around Remembrance Day, November 11, we discussed war, and Christians in the military. In the Sermon on the Mount (which the pacifist Anabaptists, precursors of the - [The Light and Easy Way of Sanctification or Transformation](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/14/the-light-and-easy-way-of-sanctification-or-transformation/) - I strayed onto an acquaintance’s blog, and started feeling tired. Oh, it was all so bossy, so prescriptive. 10 ways to be a better wife; 10 ways to be a better mum; 10 ways to lose weight in a Biblical way; 10 ways to read more spiritual books. It made me feel so - [Most Popular Posts in October on Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2012/11/04/most-popular-posts-in-october-on-dreaming-beneath-the-spires/) - And here are the most read posts this month on Dreaming Beneath the Spires. Sorry, a couple are a bit controversial!! Trying to move my blog from Blogger to Wordpress was my own private Hurricane, and I am now trying to get properly back into blogging! 1 On Vaughan Roberts’ Interview and the Case for - [My Fitness Adventure in 52 Habits (Week 3)](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/14/my-fitness-adventure-in-52-habits-now-starting-week-3/) - I started this because I had to do something about creeping weight gain—17 pounds since I moved to Oxford eight years ago!! Obviously, if I do not do something, it could reach the point that I could no longer go on long walks easily, or explore easily on our travels. Or worse, have less strength for - [In Which I am a Single Issue Voter](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/05/in-which-i-reveal-i-am-a-single-issue-voter/) - I was brought up Catholic, but made a real commitment to Christ when I was 17. Since then, as a Christian woman, I have been a citizen of three countries—of India, of the US (a citizenship I retain) and of the United Kingdom—we were sworn in last month, and are now dual citizens of the - [Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life: A Visually Splendid, Deeply Philosophical AND Christian film.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/26/terrence-malicks-the-tree-of-life-a-visually-splendid-deeply-philosophical-and-christian-film/) - I loved Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life. It’s the only film that I've watched, dazzled—and then immediately watched again. Terrence Malick, the auteur--who studied Philosophy at Harvard; was a Rhodes Scholar at Magdalen College, Oxford translated Heidegger; taught philosopher at MIT; wrote for the New Yorker; and directed six visionary films--is a modern America - ["Five Years have Passed!" : When a Retrospective Glance Consoles](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/23/when-a-retrospective-glance-consoles/) - Five years have past; five summers, with the length Of five long winters! Wordsworth writes, as he revisits Tintern Abbey, musing on how he has matured over the last five years. For nature then To me was all in all. But now, he sees something else in it. Dare he say it—God? And I have - [John Arnott, Bill Johnson, Randy Clark, and Heidi Baker: Who I will be listening to this summer!](https://anitamathias.com/2012/08/07/john-arnott-bill-johnson-randy-clark-heidi-baker-and-mark-stibbe-who-i-will-be-listening-to-this-summer/) - Okay, I am back from a summer adventure in Copenhagen, and learned lots, and thought lots, and saw lots, but spiritually, my cup is not overflowing!! And physically, I am still a bit tired—all that walking!! which I have valiantly tried to continue, counting steps on a pedometer. I sense the autumn term is - [Blogging and Penfriends](https://anitamathias.com/2013/04/14/blogging-and-penfriends/) - When I was growing up in India, letters with a foreign stamp were exciting, a window into exotic worlds. And every week, a thick envelope from Canada arrived, from my mother’s penfriend, Barbara Redlich, to whom she had written for decades, but never met. Barbara was Austrian, and in a letter I’ve kept, wrote, - [On the Importance of "Sabbaths"](https://anitamathias.com/2012/07/04/my-mini-retreat/) - Okay, I’ve worked for two Sundays in a row to keep a deadline I had neglected in a most cavalier fashion. And so I am going to take a two day mini-retreat from 8 p.m. today to 8 p.m. on Friday. Working on Sunday is always a very bad idea. The rest every seven days - [When we Walk in Love, There is Nothing to Make us Stumble](https://anitamathias.com/2013/04/17/42619/) - Image Credit Late last year, I was struggling with hostility, anger, and judgmentalism towards a fellow Christian who was getting on my nerves, and walked at night listening to 1 John and James again and again on my iPod, until my grumpy heart was converted, and I could look at the person who was annoying - [On Them All Be Peace: The Dragon Nuns and Teachers of my Youth](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/05/on-them-all-be-peace-the-dragon-nuns-and-teachers-of-my-youth/) - “Berlin seemed far away, but that was an illusion; for years I would pick fragments of it from my skin as though I had wallowed among shards of broken glass:” the historian Peter Gay writes about his boyhood growing up Jewish in Nazi Germany. (My German Question: Growing up in Nazi Berlin.) Reviewing Gay’s - [On Success and Failure and Accessing God’s Zany, Left-Field Ideas](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/20/of-success-and-failure-and-accessing-gods-zany-left-field-ideas/) - I’ve had a bit of a nose-to-the-grindstone month, trying to outline a book.This was difficult as I’ve already written and fine-tuned the last third of the book, and have a first draft of the first two-thirds.However, I had written the chapters topically, dealing with each subject which interested me, but am now publishing with a - [In Which Our Lives Are Like Mandalas, a guest post by Holly Grantham](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/27/in-which-our-lives-are-like-mandalas-2/) - I am so honoured to host Holly Grantham here, whom I first encountered through her gorgeous post, My Broken Hallelujah. So, I have this son who, from the moment he was born, pulled my heart out into the open and now I walk around hoping and praying that the strings that hold it together, now - [Parenting a Teen--Not for the faint-hearted!!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/19/parenting-a-teen-not-for-the-faint-hearted/) - They are omniscient. They are always right. Their parents are always wrong. Everything that does not work out is their parents' fault. And all this will be until the third age. Age 1--My Dad can beat your Dad. Age 2--Aw, Mum and Dad, you know nothing!! Age 3--My Mum used to say. Can't wait! But - [The Barbarian Way: Unleash the Untamed Faith Within by Erwin McManus: A Guest Review by Shaun Turner](https://anitamathias.com/2012/03/12/the-barbarian-way-unleash-the-untamed-faith-within-by-erwin-mcmanus-a-guest-review-by-shaun-turner/) - From Anglican to Barbarian in 141 pages or “How I learned to stop waiting and start doing...” Review of: The Barbarian Way: Unleash the Untamed Faith Within Erwin Raphael McManus Purpose. A word that has driven many a Christian to distraction (aside from Rick Warren, he's done OK writing about Purpose), anger and even tears. What - [Coming up for air. Hello Blog and Blogpologies](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/19/hello-blog-and-blogpologies/) - Well, I am slowly coming up for air after 17 days working on a project: sorting through 240 boxes, several thousand of books from a second-hand Amazon business I ran for a couple of years, deciding what to keep, and what to get rid of. Sadly, I landed up keeping nearly 100 loosely packed boxes - [Words in Social Media as Pearls, Stones, Swords and Life](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/29/words-in-social-media-as-pearls-stones-swords-and-life/) - Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. (Matt 13:45) And if you had one of those pearls, what would you do with it? Here’s what you would not do: You would not “throw - [Blog Vacation: Off on Retreat at Ffald-y-Brenin in Wales](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/15/blog-vacation-off-on-retreat-at-ffald-y-brenin-in-wales/) - Okay, I am really excited. We're off to Ffald-y-Brenin in Pembrokeshire National Park tomorrow. It's a Christian retreat centre, which is a thin place between heaven and earth, with the presence and peace of God powerfully evident. I have felt such a longing for long hours in the presence of God of late--but for a - [Top Ten Posts in 2011 from Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/29/top-ten-posts-in-2011-from-dreaming-beneath-the-spires/) - 1 A couple of movie reviews/reactions Jesus of Montreal and Of Gods and Men 2 The Vocation of Christian Blogging 3 Martin Luther--A Psychological Profile 4 Whiskey Priests, Todd Bentley, The Lakeland Revival, and Why "the Wicked" Prosper. 5 Thoughts on the Assassination of Osama Bin Laden Further Thoughts on the Assassination of Osama - [“Strengthen yourself in the Lord” by Bill Johnson: A guest post from Roy Mathias](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/22/strengthen-yourself-in-the-lord-by-bill-johnson-an-excellent-guest-post-from-roy-mathias/) - (Guest post by Roy Mathias) I read this book while at Ffald-y-Brenin. Here are some of the ideas--chapter by chapter. Bill Johnson describes some of the methods he uses to strengthen his inner man – it is not an exhaustive list, just what he himself has found helpful. These are some of the - [The Shop of Ghosts of G.K. Chesterton](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/22/the-shop-of-ghosts-of-g-k-chesterton/) - The Shop Of Ghosts by G. K. Chesterton Nearly all the best and most precious things in the universe you can get for a halfpenny. I make an exception, of course, of the sun, the moon, the earth, people, stars, thunderstorms, and such trifles. You can get them for nothing. Also I make an exception - [The Best Writing Advice: Love your Reader](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/01/the-best-writing-advice-love-your-reader/) - http://www.flickr.com/photos/lesbryant2/4058975175/ Don Miller says that this is the best writing advice: Love your Reader.The golden rule is also a good blogging precept: Write the kind of posts you would really like to read. Ask yourself: Would I like to read this? What would reading this do to me? If you wouldn’t care to read it on - ["Advent Calendar" by Rowan Williams](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/06/advent-calendar-by-rowan-williams-a-breathtakingly-beautiful-poem/) - Advent Calendar He will come like last leaf's fall. One night when the November wind has flayed the trees to the bone, and earth wakes choking on the mould, the soft shroud's folding. He will come like frost. One morning when the shrinking earth opens on mist, to find itself arrested in the net of - [He Was My Champagne; Now He Is My Bread. My Changing Experience of the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/2015/11/10/he-was-my-champagne-now-he-is-my-bread-my-changing-ways-of-relating-to-the-holy-spirit/) - On my changing experience of the Holy Spirit. Once champagne, a heady experience, he's now bread, fish, eggs, veggies. I can't go through my day without him - [The Will of God Always Leads Us to a Larger Place](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/20/the-will-of-god-always-leads-us-to-a-larger-place/) - As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4 18-20) So the fishers of - [1001 Gifts # 3: My Body](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/23/1001-3-my-body/) - 1001 Gifts: My Body Okay, this isn’t a post I ever thought I’d be writing, since you and I have been at war since my teens, but O Body given to me, I am grateful to you. I am grateful for your sturdy health, for how you rarely let me down, despite the fact I - [The Beautiful and the Useful](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/14/the-useful-and-the-beautiful/) - Image Credit Do you want a simple guide to freshen and declutter your house? Here it is from the Pre-Raphaelite, William Morris: If you want a golden rule that will fit everything, this is it: Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. It's a - [On Choosing to Believe in the Divine Inspiration of Scripture](https://anitamathias.com/2015/11/08/on-choosing-to-believe-in-scripture-as-inspired-by-god/) - On Choosing to Believe in Scripture as Inspired by God - [The Differences Between Religion and Spirituality](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/05/the-differences-between-religion-and-spirituality/) - Image Stuart asked me, “Do religion and spirituality mean the same thing?” Here’s my response: To me, spirituality is our sense of God, of infinity and immensity. Every society we know of has been spiritual in some way. There are no entirely atheistic societies that I know of. Faced with the vastness, beauty and brilliance of - [Jonah Moments : When You Grudge God's Mercy Towards Others](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/05/jonah-moments/) - Jonah is among the Old Testament's fully rounded and very believable characters! He is commissioned to warn Nineveh of impending judgment. Trouble is, Jonah thinks the judgment is richly deserved, and so flees--ending up in the belly of a great whale. And there, he praises God, and God turns his destiny around from death to - [Where 90% of marital problems begin (according to my pastor)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/01/sex/) - About a decade ago, Roy and I presented ourselves for marital counselling with the very busy senior pastor of the mega-church we attended in Williamsburg, Virginia. He had a three session rule. He'd solved your problem in three sessions, if he could, and then decide whether to embark on extended counseling with you, or refer - [The Spirit of the Lord Hovering over the World](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/10/the-spirit-of-the-lord-hovering-over-the-world/) - Image Credit Life is not a race. And reading the Bible is not a race. It is more important that we are transformed by it than that we read it in a year. Or blog through it in a year. So while this year, I have, again, kept up with “listening to the Bible in - [I am from the Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter Body of Christ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/25/i-am-from-the-sweet-sour-salty-bitter-body-of-christ/) - I am from the Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter Body of Christ I am from earliest memories of Latin Masses in Jamshedpur, India not understanding a word, and then, English masses, I did understand, but was bored by, and Post-Vatican II vernacular masses, in Konkani, Kannada, Marathi on our travels, understanding nothing, but doing our - [When Great Poets Encounter the Angel of Writing](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/10/when-great-poets-encounter-the-angel-of-writing/) - I love “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” by Julia Ward Howe. It has a mysterious perfection: the rhythm, the evocative words, the allusions, the beautiful language create a loveliness greater than the sum of its parts. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord: He is trampling out the vintage where the - [Two Good Voices in My Head. Two Pills: Red and Blue](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/09/two-good-voices-in-my-head-two-pills-red-and-blue/) - Image Credit In Marlowe's Doctor Faustus, good and bad angels speak persuasively to Faustus. He chooses the path of adventure, exploration and experience. Two voices, saying different and opposite things. It's a more common experience than I had realised. Billy Graham had a crisis with two voices--reason and Charles Templeton; orthodoxy and Henrietta Mears. He chose to believe - [We Have Something to Learn, and Something to Teach at Every Stage of Life](https://anitamathias.com/2015/11/07/we-have-something-to-learn-and-something-to-teach-at-every-stage-of-life/) - We have something to learn, and something to teach at every stage of life. From both the generations younger than us, & the generations older than us. - [The Secret History of Hagar: When God Invisibly Comforts the Oppressed](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/28/the-god-who-sees-the-oppressed-and-comforts-the-afflicted/) - Image: Tissot, Hagar and the Angel in the Desert Hagar, Egyptian maidservant of Sarah, has a hard life. Impregnated, basically raped by Abraham, she is bullied and persecuted by a jealous Sarah—so much so that probable death in the desert feels preferable. (Genesis 16) And in the desert, the runaway slave, with only the clothes - [Some Theological Jokes (Don't Blame Me, Blame the Oxford Theologians!)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/01/some-theological-jokes-dont-blame-me-blame-the-oxford-theologians/) - Calvin, Luther and Barth all arrive at the pearly gates... Calvin is ushered in to have a chat with God and after 30 mins comes out saying "at last I understand predestination!" Luther then goes in to have his chat with God... another 30 mins later he comes out saying "At last I know why - [A Christian Blogging Dialogue: What do you think?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/01/a-christian-blogging-dialogue-what-do-you-think/) - Here are a few snippets from a interesting exchange i've had with Stuart over the last couple of days. Any thoughts? Specifically, do you think Christian blogging can advance the kingdom? If so how? Here are snippets from Stuart's post (blush). WARNING: This is one of those self-indulgent blog posts on Christian blogging that’s a - [Thought for the Day: Consistent Effort, No Matter How Small](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/30/thought-for-the-day-consistent-effort-no-matter-how-small/) - “I still don’t get why people are so surprised that the turtle beat the rabbit over the long run. Consistent effort, no matter how small, sparks magic, fills sails, butters bread, turns tides, instills faith, summons friends, improves health, burns calories, creates abundance, yields clarity, builds courage, spins planets, and rewrites destinies." Signed The Universe - [Vignettes from Family Life](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/29/vignettes-from-family-life/) - You know your daughter is doing A level philosophy when you say, "I can't make myself pack till the last moment" & Zoe says, "Nonsense. That's a fatalistic approach. Jean-Paul Sarte would be shocked!" Zoe effortlessly did something on my new MacBook which floored me and Roy. Zoe, I said, amazed, we're floored. No, you - [Back! And raring to get going!](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/28/back-and-raring-to-get-going/) - Greetings, readers. I've been in an Abbey with no wi-fi and no internet for 5 days. No mobile phone signal either. At first, I felt a bit disoriented, to be honest. We own a business: was is thriving, or were there fires? (It throve in our absence, Someone Else took over.) And when the background - [Martin Luther: A Psychological Profile](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/02/martin-luther-a-psychological-profile/) - Martin Luther Last night, Roy and I watched a PBS DVD on Martin Luther. Excellent. I don't know when we have last had to pause a documentary because we were laughing so hard. We found the comments of the scholars hilarious. The documentary goes through Luther's childhood with unloving, lower middle class, but ambitious upwardly - [Personal Facebook Status Updates](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/15/a-round-up-of-excellent-blogs-and-personal-facebook-status-updates/) - Most Read Posts on Dreaming Beneath the Spires. 1 When to fail quickly and quit. 2 1001 Gifts: My New Church My Last Two Months in Facebook Statuses Watched the last Harry Potter with some sadness. End of an era. We started on them in 2002, had each book delivered at the crack of - [Dreaming on Sillvik Beach, Gothenburg, Sweden](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/18/dreaming-on-sillvik-beach-gothenburg-sweden/) - Today was one of those unplanned perfect days which travel sometimes hands us as a gift. We asked one of those friendly smiley Swedes (Gothenburg, reputedly the friendliest place in Sweden, is renowned for them) to recommend a beach. Sillvik which we went to was gorgeous--rugged, rocky, all yellow and purple: purple heather, yellow wildflowers. - [On The One True Diet and The One True Faith](https://anitamathias.com/2015/11/03/on-the-one-true-diet-and-the-one-true-faith/) - While most diets have some goodness, a plant-based diet is best. While most religions have some goodness, I believe following Jesus is definitely best. - [The Paradox Project: Gaining by Losing. #1](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/11/the-paradox-project-gaining-by-losing-1/) - Me and Jake, the Collie, yesterday, in our living room In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul tells us about a man, who received visions and revelations from the Lord, was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things and surpassingly great revelations. (Erm, hint, it was Paul himself!) He goes on to write, Therefore, in order - [The Tardis of Faith](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/25/the-tardis-of-faith/) - We almost pass it by, yet another cathedral encased in scaffolding, But inside. Inside, it is different Enormous, full of light glowing from its stained glass windows. So too the beloved ancient faith in the Lord Jesus From the outside is grimy, disused, the province of rules, and prim, prissy people, dusty with the accretion of - [“Do not Resist Evil;” One Way to Heal after Experiencing Evil](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/05/do-not-resist-evil-one-way-to-heal-after-experiencing-evil/) - Image Credit You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces - [In which Creative Blocks Crumble, and I am Set Free.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/19/in-which-creative-blocks-crumble-and-i-am-set-free/) - I went on a retreat at the Harnhill Centre last month with low expectations, and it proved life-changing in the area of food. The another amazing healing and release I experienced at the Harnhill Centre for Christian Healing was in the creative arena. I have had a couple of tries at doing book proposals for - [The Very Worst Part of Christian or Spiritual Blogging](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/04/the-very-worst-part-of-christian-or-spiritual-blogging/) - The Very Worst Part of Christian or Spiritual Blogging It's when you mess up in real life. And you're cross with your husband. And you feel you should be doing something about your 12 year old's room. Though she is 12. And your 17 year old’s room, and her maelstrom of barely made or just - [Training for a race. The Paradox Project #3](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/04/anita-roy-and-zoe-are-training-for-a-race-the-paradox-project-3/) - Image Okay, I had decided to get fit, and then relaxed on holiday, and was ill with a bad cough all week. I think I need an inciting event, in Don Miller's language to keep focused on strength and fitness, so have decided to sign up for a run with my family. And I am - [Facebook, Blogs, Twitter and the Writers' Brain](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/13/facebook-blogs-twitter-and-the-writers-brain/) - I first joined Facebook in 2009. It was my third year of working in a small business I had founded, and the third year in which I had not written at all, and had barely read books. My writing fingers had atrophied. My creativity, energy and passion were flowing into the business. Writing is a - [Being an Entrepreneur and Being a Christian?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/14/being-an-entrepreneur-and-being-a-christian/) - Just watched The Social Network. You know, Roy and I love entrepreneurship, really enjoy it, but are always reining back our natural entrepreneurial instincts because we are Christians. You know...those who seek wealth piercing themselves with many griefs, the love of money being the root of all evil, not being able to serve two masters: - [Working Restfully](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/29/working-restfully/) - We were created to work out of a place of rest, Sally writes in a beautiful blog post. Indeed! These are increasingly red lights for me: Being over-tired, being stressed, over-working, being anxious, obsessing. Because you see, his yoke is easy, and his burden light. When I am doing too much, am rushing ahead - [An Indian Summer and personal catch-up](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/28/an-indian-summer-and-personal-catch-up/) - An older picture of our house on an Indian summer day. Except we now have a 30 sq. m conservatory in front of the white wall. It's a gorgeous Indian Summer in Oxford at the moment. I said to Roy, "The weather is so beautiful. I want to go on holiday." Roy, who - [Human Sacrifices: "Anything Else You Worship Will Eat You Alive," David Foster Wallace](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/27/human-sacrifices-anything-else-you-worship-will-eat-you-alive-david-foster-wallace/) - Willa Cather famously said, "The God of Art demands human sacrifices." Well, if one sets excellence in an art or science or craft or business as the goal of one's life, then, yes, it will demand a human sacrifice--your very self. However, if you set out to create art, or the best art you are - [The Best Thing You Can Do with your Life: Sign it Over. (Inspired by Bill Bright.)](https://anitamathias.com/2015/10/24/the-best-thing-you-can-do-with-your-life-sign-it-over-inspiration-from-bill-bright/) - Inspired by Bill Bright who transferred ownership of every area of his life to Jesus Christ, and then sensed that his future was brighter ever before. - [How the Different Denominations See Each Other](https://anitamathias.com/2011/10/01/how-the-different-denominations-see-each-other/) - Hat tip Mark Meynell - [Off to "His Place," a Christian Retreat Centre in Saarland, Germany. "He Restores my Soul"](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/26/off-to-his-place-a-christian-retreat-centre-in-saarland-germany-he-restores-my-soul/) - We are on our way to Germany to stay at His Place, a guesthouse, owned by a Christian community, Community Without Walls, where Rolland Baker was healed from dementia, and Carol Arnott was healed and taught the ten minute worship revolution which has helped me a lot on the days I remember to use it. - [Irene and Prague](https://anitamathias.com/2010/10/24/irene-and-prague/) - Irene and Prague Irene loves Prague. We ate out last night facing the astronomical clock after having walked down the Charles Bridge. We had had a decadent day of good meals, lots of shopping, lots of art. "That was a good day," she sighed with happiness. The last time she was this happy was after - [In which Christ Lures us to Secret Prayer, and Promises us a Reward for it.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/11/in-which-christ-calls-us-to-secrecy/) - “Come you apart from them and be secret,” Christ calls out to us. (Matt. 6 1-18) We live in a world governed by “the rules,” described by Brene Brown in Daring Greatly: For women, “be naturally beautiful, thin, and perfect at everything, especially motherhood. Be sweet, stay quiet; be perfect moms and wives; don’t own - [Christ Walking on the Waters, not of Gennesaret but Thames](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/02/christ-walking-on-the-waters-not-of-gennesaret-but-thames/) - Billy Bragg sings Jerusalem at Greenbelt 2011 And did those feet in ancient time. Walk upon England's mountains green: And was the holy Lamb of God, On England’s pleasant pastures seen! And did the Countenance Divine, Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here, Among these dark Satanic Mills? Bring me my - [Things are not what they seem (Thought for the Day)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/06/things-are-not-what-they-seem-thought-for-the-day/) - " There are many different reasons for the changes, upheavals, revolutions of history. One of the biggest reasons is the prayers of the followers of the Lamb. Things are not what they seem." Darrell Johnson's book on Revelation. On Pg 169 he continues "It is just that in praying for Jesus Christ--the reigning Lamb--to - [On Absolute Surrender. Killing “Isaac” for God’s Fullest Blessing.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/16/on-killing-isaac-for-gods-fullest-blessing/) - Whatever we surrender to God is mysteriously enlarged. Surrendering everything to God is absolutely the wisest course of action - [The Eucharistic Nature of Creativity (Talk by Rob Bell at Greenbelt, 2011)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/27/the-eucharistic-nature-of-creativity-talk-by-rob-bell-at-greenbelt-2011/) - The Eucharist--This is my body, broken for you. This is my blood, shed for you. Writing from the heart, close to the bone has these eucharistic characteristics: pouring out your life-blood. And so, it's no wonder that one sometimes feels depleted. Emptied. Exhausted. Bell recommends taking a break when this is the case, coming unplugged, - [Blogging and Thick Skin](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/15/blogging-and-thick-skin/) - Rachel Held Evans observes:It’s no secret that blogging requires thick skin. Each post subjects your ideas, interests, and feelings to the scrutiny of other people, who through the anonymity of the internet are more likely to tell you exactly what they think. A single post might lead some to call you a hero and others to question your - [On Forgiveness and Creativity: A Personal Experience of the Link](https://anitamathias.com/2015/10/20/on-forgiveness-and-creativity-a-personal-experience-of-the-link/) - There's a mysterious and inextricable link between Spirit-breathed creativity & forgiveness. A spirit open to God is also open to his golden, creative ideas - [Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/12/let-the-beloved-of-the-lord-rest-secure-in-him/) - Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders." Deut 33:12 - [Christian Blogging and Holiness](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/04/christian-blogging-and-holiness/) - Image by Fitzy Blogging --A Matter of Words Holiness--A Matter of Heart Anyone who has known many writers, preachers, and bloggers will know that the characters of those gifted with words--preachers, or Christian writers or bloggers--does not necessarily match their eloquence. But we want it to match up, don't we? I think it would be - [On Magic, Moonshine, Personal Change, and Healing in the Body of Christ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/18/on-magic-moonshine-personal-change-and-healing-in-the-body-of-christ/) - To change, really change, is magical. And to be a Christ-follower is to change, because he is in constant motion, a strong walker, blowing like the wind, and sometimes we need to walk briskly to keep up with him on the winding roads of holiness. Change can happen dramatically, or slowly. God can speak to - [Exploring Sweden in a Motor Home](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/14/exploring-sweden-in-a-motor-home/) - Okay, we are exploring Sweden in a camper van. We’ve done 6 motor home holidays (Switzerland, Norway, New Zealand, Ireland and two trips to France). I mostly love camper van holidays—long dreamy days of watching the scenery go by, long times of lying down and praying while we get to places, writing on my laptop - [Thoughts on the London 2011 riots](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/09/thoughts-on-the-london-2011-riots/) - Roy and I stayed up till 2.45 a.m. yesterday following the coverage of the London riots on the Guardian's live blog and other media and social media. It was grimly fascinating watching the protests, rioting and looting spread from London to Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Bristol, Nottingham and Kent. There were however some peculiarly British features - [Quit Worrying about your Savings Plan: Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/23/quit-worrying-about-your-savings-plan-jesus/) - Image credit Jesus was a spectacularly loving person, caring and reaching out right through his crucifixion-- so when he speaks about money, we’d be wise to listen up. We'd be wise to listen because his desire, the reason he said he came, was for the fullest human flourishing, that we may have LIFE in abundance. - [We Need Scripture to Help us Make Decisions. But we need the Spirit too. We need Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/18/beyond-the-letter-of-scripture-we-need-the-spirit-to-help-us-interpret-the-word-we-need-jesus/) - Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord; My spirit pants for Thee, O living Word! Mary Lathbury, 1877 39 You study[c]the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, 40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life, (John 5:39) Jesus says to the Pharisees. - [It was like a Church to me: Port Meadow, Oxford, at Sunset](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/26/it-was-like-a-church-to-me-port-meadow-at-sunset/) - Worshipping God in the Cathedral of Nature - [Anyone can come. Anyone can play.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/08/01/anyone-can-come-anyone-can-play/) - The Friend of God "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God's friend" James 2.23. Cool, how low that bar is. All one needs to do to be accounted righteous, and to be God's friend is to believe. And it's one of life's cooler experiences when your - [In which Birds Teach us Not to Worry](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/27/in-which-birds-teach-us-not-to-worry/) - We can worship God in church, and we can worship God while walking through the spectacular natural world he made, which is full of clues to his character. The heavens declare God’s glory, without words. Trees, the ocean, the day and the seasons tell of a God who loves beauty, who made all things well, - [The Earth Belongs to Those who Take Time to Enjoy It](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/31/the-earth-belongs-to-those-who-take-time-to-enjoy-it/) - Part II of my extended meditation on The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth. Here’s Part I. Do the meek really inherit the earth? “The earth,” or την γην, ten gen, to the Jewish mind signified the beloved land, Eretz Israel, the promised, longed-for land of Canaan. It was used “as a proverbial expression to denote - [How to Make Real Friends Rapidly](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/28/how-to-make-real-friends-rapidly/) - I loved this Noel Piper article on friendship. Some reflections on it 1) One is never to old to make new friends. Noel says she formed her first real friendships at the age of 60. 2) The best way of establishing friendships--be open and honest, undefended. 3) And then, the miraculous counter-intuitive truth: Being open and - [My fortnight in Facebook Statuses, and Most Read Blog Posts of the Month](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/24/my-fortnight-in-facebook-statuses-and-most-read-blog-posts-of-the-month/) - Strasbourg MOST READ BLOG POSTS OF THE MONTH 1) Bees, Permaculture and Blessing. 2) Yoga and Other Things which Shouldn't Scare Christians 3) Short term Missions (Thoughts inspired by Jamie, the Very World Missionary) 4) The Third Generation of British Christian Blogging and Sustainability 5)Coffee and Breaking Addictions Okay, so this week is Zoe's mandatory work experience. We - [The Jesus Prayer: A Prayer to Pray when you are Struggling](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/03/a-prayer-to-pray-when-you-are-stuck-in-sin/) - Kneeling with Giants by Gary Hansen I was so angry with my husband Roy one night recently that I could not sleep. Oh yes, the sun well and truly went down on my anger. And the hours passed (or I assume they did—I never look the time during sleepless nights, it makes me more stressed) - [The Baptism in the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/11/the-baptism-in-the-holy-spirit/) - Mark 1:8 Blog Through the Bible Project Mark 1: 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” John's baptism is a symbol of renouncing sin, and now belonging to God. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is the real thing. It is perhaps one of the peak experiences of the - [In which Jesus Commands us Not to Judge](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/17/in-which-jesus-commands-us-not-to-judge/) - Do not judge because I am the Judge, not you. Do not judge because your quick judgement cuts you off from my flow of goodness and mercy. Do not judge because I am the positive, creative one; your negativity cuts you from me. Do not judge because you are not that smart; you - [Loose Change in God’s pocket; a puppet on a string, or? What's your metaphor for your relationship with God?](https://anitamathias.com/2012/10/13/loose-change-in-gods-pocket-a-puppet-on-a-string-or-what-is-your-metaphor-for-your-relationship-with-god/) - I was listening to a Vineyard CD of Songs of Surrender, and reflected on how I have been indirectly blessed by John Wimber, a man I’ve never met. Through Vineyard music; through his wife Carol’s moving biography of him The Way it Was; through the Toronto Blessing, which was launched in a Vineyard church, now called - [Calm of Mind, All Passion Spent, in Mid-October Days, when the Light is Golden](https://anitamathias.com/2015/10/12/calm-of-mind-all-passion-spent-in-mid-october-days-when-the-light-is-golden/) - In which we already know all we need to know to be happy, & perhaps, like Evan Roberts who launched the Welsh Revival, we can even summarise it in one word! - [A Burglar of Joy: Procrastination--Thought for the Day](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/01/burglars-of-joy-thought-for-the-day/) - "The habit of always putting off an experience until you can afford it, or until the time is right, or until you know how to do it is one of the greatest burglars of joy. Be deliberate, but once you've made up your mind - jump in." Chuck Swindoll - [Is someone cursing America (thoughts inspired by Matt Appling)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/07/02/is-someone-cursing-america-thoughts-inspired-by-matt/) - Americans celebrating the death of Osama Bin-Laden Matt at The Church of No People has this interesting post Who'sCursing America? Read it. Matt says that people who forecast gloom, doom andj udgment on nations are viewed by those nations as barking mad. Mad and bad. It was ever the way with prophets. Jeremiah, Ezekiel - [On Planting Secret Seeds for the Kingdom and for the Love of Jesus. And on a Role Model of Christian Leadership](https://anitamathias.com/2015/10/09/on-planting-secret-seeds-for-the-kingdom-and-for-the-love-of-jesus-and-on-a-role-model-for-christian-leadership/) - Impressed by an eminent apologist who humbly served a group of students, planting secret seeds for t. simple love of Jesus which too often gets squeezed out - [What I Am Up To](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/24/what-i-am-up-to-personal-update/) - Coffee with some lovely women from my St. Andrew's women's group It’s well and truly summer. At last, and long overdue. School broke up on the 12th of July, which does seem very late, doesn’t it? The Cwmbran Revival We went as a family to the revival meetings at Cwmbran, Wales on a Saturday. It - [You of Little Faith, Why are you so Afraid?](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/24/you-of-little-faith-why-are-you-so-afraid/) - I In a familiar, beloved passage, Jesus gets into a boat, and “a furious storm came up, so that the waves swept over the boat.” But Jesus continued sleeping. The disciples in panic wake him up, “We are going to drown.” And he replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he - [In which Celebrate Jan Hus, The Czech Republic's Heroic, Naive and Tragic "John Wycliffe"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/10/23/jan-huss-the-czech-republics-heroic-naive-and-tragic-reformer/) - Jan Hus is an iconic figure in Prague. He was peasant born, but a follower of the John Wycliffe, the English reformer. He preached in the language of the masses (Czech) against the wealth, corruption and hierarchical tendencies within the church. Though a devout, mild-mannered man himself, he become embroiled in the disputes between the - ["In This World You Will Have Troubles." Reflecting on the Purpose of Suffering](https://anitamathias.com/2015/10/05/in-this-world-you-will-have-troubles-reflecting-on-the-purpose-of-suffering/) - Reflecting on a period when all went wrong. Suffering strengthens our characters & endurance, equipping us to fulfil the dream God has placed in our hearts - [The Toxicity of Unexpressed Creativity Leads to Physical and Mental Illness, and Addictions](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/26/the-toxicity-of-unexpressed-creativity-leads-to-physical-and-mental-illness-and-addictions/) - I love this startling chapter "The Unlived Life," from Steven Pressfield's great book, "The War of Art." The rest of this post is a quote from this prescient chapter: “Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance. Have you ever brought home - [Blackberries Everywhere, Sweet as the Goodness of God](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/20/blackberries-everywhere-as-sweet-as-the-goodness-of-god/) - Blackberries growing wild outside my study. I walk along the country footpaths around my house, the hedgerows full of blackberries. They’ve been out for weeks, and I’ve seen families gather them for jam or pies, but I, I’m trying to jog, and maintain my pace, or am engrossed in my audiobook, I rarely stop to - [On Brothers and Inheritances, and When Jesus is Exasperating](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/26/on-brothers-and-inheritances-and-when-jesus-is-exasperating/) - So this is C. S Lewis’s famous trilemma: when Jesus is outrageous, as he often is, you have to decide. Do you laugh him off as a lunatic, blow him off as a liar, or bow the knee as to your Lord? The aggrieved brother in Luke 12 was faced with Lewis’s trilemma. “Teacher, tell my brother - [On Breaking the 22 Minute Mile, and Stumbling on Happiness](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/29/on-breaking-the-22-minute-mile-and-stumbling-on-happiness/) - Rejoicing in an improving trajectory (while accepting life's limits) brings much happiness. Happiness lies in gratitude for the silver lining in all things - [The Pervasive Low-Grade Misery of Neglecting your Dreams](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/29/the-pervasive-low-grade-misery-of-neglecting-your-dreams/) - I am reading The War of Art, by Steven Pressfield about a demonic force called Resistance—which conspires to prevent writers writing, painters painting, composers composers, the overweight exercising… You get the picture. And here's another brilliant passage from The War of Art Resistance and Unhappiness What does resistance feel like? First, unhappiness. We feel like hell. - [What We Sow, We Reap because God, the Great Mathematician, the Impartial Referee, Keeps Score](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/30/reaping-what-we-sow/) - Jacob Epstein, Jacob and the Angel For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. (Matt 7:2). Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy. (Matt 5:7). As a man sows, so shall he reap. (Gal 6:7). These - [On being as wise as a serpent and as gentle as a dove](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/22/on-being-wise-as-a-serpent-and-innocent-as-a-dove/) - On Jesus' command to balance the wisdom and shrewdness of the serpent with the gentleness and sweetness of the dove. On this brilliant checks and balances. - [Onward and Upward in the Garden](https://anitamathias.com/2011/05/09/onward-and-upward-in-the-garden/) - I have been a bit behind with my blog--but I have been busy in the garden. Here is a herb garden Roy created from scratch last month And here is our Alpine garden. The clematis, as you can see, is blooming, as are my yellow roses We have bird feeders in the garden, and are - [A God's Eye View of the Migrant Crisis](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/15/a-gods-eye-view-on-the-migrant-crisis/) - On the migrant crisis. Immigration is an economic blessing. Christians are commanded to be merciful to t. poor& the alien. In doing so, they will be blessed - [When Prayer Costs Everything](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/29/when-prayer-costs-everything/) - Jesus in Gethsemane Matthew 26 36-46--Blog Through the Bible Project Gethsemane 36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and - [Home Quiet Home](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/30/home-quiet-home/) - Our four pet rabbits Botanists. Please could you identify this shrub in my driveway. Is it worth saving? Same mystery shrub needing identification We're home for this four day weekend, having enjoyed Italy over Easter. We had Tomasz, our Polish cleaner, house-sit for us. He winked, as I left saying, "I'll give your house - [The Anointing of Jesus: Why This Waste?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/21/the-anointing-of-jesus-why-this-waste/) - I am actually enthralled by this year's discipline of reading through Scripture slowly, a passage at a time. How can I be so fascinated with this slow reading of passages I have known all my life? Because there is power and depth in the passages, sparkling inner depths that yield themselves to a close and - [Desiderata, by Max Ehrmann, 1927](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/13/desiderata-by-max-ehrmann-1927/) - Desiderata Latin for Desired Things Max Ehrmann, 1927 Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to - [When Shackles become Wings: On Domesticity, Creativity, and Me](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/07/when-shackles-become-wings-on-domesticity-creativity-and-me/) - On discovering that creativity blooms in the soil of duty. Domesticity, with its downtime & thinking time, can be an ally rather than enemy of creativity. - [Domesticity and Art            ](https://anitamathias.com/2011/05/04/domesticity-and-art-2/) - It speaks a language of its own, sometimes in such insistent tones that it interrupts the quietness of my own thoughts. At times, my house seems haunted like the castle of fairy tales in which the clock, the teapot, and candelabra whisper secret admonition: “Careful beauty. Here lurks a beast.” When oft upon my - [On Tiger-Mothers, and Good-Enough Christian Mothers](https://anitamathias.com/2012/07/21/on-tiger-mothers-and-good-enough-christian-mothers/) - So I read through Amy Chua's article, The Battle Hymn of the Tiger-Mother, and feel I have failed as a mum. (This, of course, is the uneasy reaction the sassy book was intended to evoke.) "Zoe and Irene," I say dramatically. "I have failed as a tiger-mother." Zoe snorts. "You never were a tiger-mother, Mum. Especially now. You - [Honesty Is the Narrow Gate to the Spiritual Life: Learning from My Daughter, Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/03/honesty-is-the-narrow-gate-to-the-spiritual-life-learning-from-my-daughter-irene/) - Honesty is a magic key that unlocks the door to a deeper spiritual life. Without honesty & humility, we cannot enter in. Learning from my daughter Irene. - [There's No One as Irish as Barack Obama](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/25/theres-no-one-as-irish-as-barack-obama/) - The video reminds me of the wave of euphoria and optimism which swept the globe, when, 40 odd years after institutionalized segregation in the American South--in buses, schools, cafeterias and water fountains--Americans redeemed their dark history of slavery and segregation by electing a black man as their President. I thought of Wordsworth's lines on the French - [Mud and the Breath of God: That is What We Are](https://anitamathias.com/2015/09/01/mud-and-the-breath-of-god-that-is-what-we-are/) - Grace strikes us precisely when we have messed everything up. When we don't deserve it. When we are in great pain & restlessness. Amazing grace! - [The Zigzag Ways of God's Blessing](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/28/zigzag-ways-gods-blessing/) - Joseph had a rarefied spiritual gift: God spoke to him through his dreams, and he could interpret the dreams of others. In the night, which belongs to the Lord, he sees his sheaf stand upright while his brother’s sheaves bow to it. He sees the sun and moon and eleven stars bow to him. He - [When Sarah snorted, but God had mercy on her, anyway](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/06/sarah-snorted-god-mercy-anyway/) - Arent de Gelder 1645-1727 Three white-clad men walk out of the desert, out of the shimmering sands. Calm holiness. Abraham, the Patriarch, “very wealthy in silver and gold, sheep and cattle and camels and male and female donkeys, menservants and maidservants” runs to meet them, bows low to the ground, and offers him his most lavish - [Paul Tillich on Grace](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/18/what-is-grace/) - “Grace strikes us when we are in great pain and restlessness. It strikes us when we walk through the empty valley of a meaningless and empty life. It strikes us when, year after year, the longed for perfection does not appear, when the old compulsions reign within us as they have for decades, when despair - [In which the Afflicted are Comforted in Ways We Cannot Guess (In Memory of Kayla Mueller)](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/15/afflicted-comforted-ways-cannot-guess-memory-kayla-mueller/) - In which God comforts the afflicted in ways we cannot guess at, whether Hagar in the desert, or Kayla Mueller, captured and murdered by ISIS. - [Lilies by Mary Oliver](https://anitamathias.com/2009/06/15/come-oswald-chambers/) - Lilies A poem by Mary Oliver I have been thinking about living like the lilies that blow in the fields. They rise and fall in the edge of the wind, and have no shelter from the tongues of the cattle, and have no closets or cupboards, and have no legs. Still I would like to - [On Long Walks, Spirituality and Creativity. And Images of Lucca, Tuscany, Italy](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/11/long-walks-spirituality-creativity-images-lucca/) - I discovered a new pleasure this year which has become vital to my spiritual life and my ability to hear and God; my emotional balance and shalom; my psychological well-being; my ability to deal with stress; my creativity, and my happiness. And no, it’s not prayer, though prayer, theoretically, offers all these benefits.But we are - [What's your Six Word Love Story?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/14/whats-your-six-word-love-story/) - Can you summarize your love story in six words? Here are people's attempts at The New York Times. I guess a love story evolves, and you see and tell it differently at different times. My attempt would be "Opposites attracted. Fierily. Happily. 21 years" Here are some others. Warning, love: I blog my breakups. - [Living in the “Flow” of God's River](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/16/living-gods-flow/) - Whoever seeks to save their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it. (Matt 10:39) NIV. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. (Matt 10:39) New Living Translation. * * * Time - [My Big, Fat, Frivolous Prayer Which Made Dreams Come True](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/18/big-fat-frivolous-prayer-made-dreams-come-true/) - Sometimes, in uncanny ways which make you shiver, prayer become flesh, come true - [Good News for Those who've Blown It](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/20/blow-good-news-flawed/) - In which I am again amazed by grace - [Grace strikes us when we are in great pain and restlessness. Paul Tillich](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/22/telltale-signs-that-your-child-is-bullying-others/) - “Do we know what it means to be struck by grace? It does not mean that we suddenly believe that God exists, or that Jesus is the Saviour, or that the Bible contains the truth. To believe that something is, is almost contrary to the meaning of grace. Furthermore, grace does not mean simply - [Spring is Coming! Start to be Happy! "Coming," a poem by Philip Larkin](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/13/its-coming-start-to-be-happy/) - Coming On longer evenings, Light, chill and yellow, Bathes the serene Foreheads of houses. A thrush sings, Laurel-surrounded In the deep bare garden, Its fresh-peeled voice Astonishing the brickwork. It will be spring soon, It will be spring soon - And I, whose childhood Is a forgotten boredom, Feel like a child Who comes on - [On Cancer, Declining Chemotherapy, Healing, and Future Plans](https://anitamathias.com/2015/08/03/on-cancer-declining-chemotherapy-healing-and-future-plans/) - On seeking natural, non-toxic alternatives to chemotherapy after cancer. Oh healing, through prayer, natural alternatives & exercise. Future blogging plans. - [In which Annie Relocates the Wirral to Birmingham, and I am Chastened](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/25/annie-relocates-wirral-birmingham-chastened/) - One gets spoiled in Oxford, gets used to fast-moving, intelligent conversation; to hearing of new books and new ideas, and having your own thinking challenged. And sometimes, after living here for years, you can think of Oxford as the world. Think of the body of Christ in Oxford as identical to the body of - [What is the Point of Prayer? Does Prayer Change Things? Matthew 20 29-34](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/18/what-is-the-point-of-prayer-does-prayer-change-things/) - Things happen, that would not have happened if we had not prayed. This is my firm conviction. Would Jesus have stopped and healed the two blind man seated by the side of the roadside if they had not asked him to? There are very few records of him spontaneously healing people who have not asked - [Gardening: The fountain of youth?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/11/gardening-the-fountain-of-youth/) - Gardening was one of the biggest passions of our lives for the last seven years that we lived in America, and had a half acre garden, this . We planted thousands of bulbs (literally), a dozen fruit trees, dozens of hellebores, shade-loving plants, perennials. I used to know a lot about all sorts of plants, and - [How Circling Prayer can Convert a Vicious Circle to a Virtuous Circle](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/05/circling-prayer-can-convert-vicious-circle-virtuous-circle/) - Praying circles around your weaknesses and bad habits can change vicious circles to virtuous circles - [Feel-good foods, a guest post by Roy Mathias](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/10/feel-good-foods/) - Guest post by Roy Mathias Perhaps in Lent I should not be writing about the different ways food can make us feel good. So let me start with Fasting. It can make you feel terrific after a couple of days, but I'm sure can have too much of good thing. Fasting is also the body's - [Thomas Merton's Beautiful Prayer--You will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it.](https://anitamathias.com/2008/11/06/thomas-merton/) - My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing - [In which I Resolve Not to Waste my Time or Passion on What Does Not Really Matter](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/11/squander-passion-matter/) - “A man sees an odd-shaped piece of animal skin on the ground in front of him. He lashes out at it with his foot, and sends it skimming across the open, grassy field on which he’s standing. As a direct consequence of this, several million people around the world experience intense feelings of joy or - [The spiritual life is not a ladder I need to climb. It is the descent of the dove!](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/13/cant-hustle-way-presence-king-enter-mercy/) - And I do not get intimacy with Jesus by all my spiritual disciplines. I get it because of his mercy. The spiritual life is the descent of the dove - [In Which I Invest in Mental Wealth](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/16/invest-mental-wealth/) - So we had guests for lunch. It normally takes me just a few minutes to get myself presentable, but I was slowed down by my bedroom which was unusually messy: unmade bed, clothes books, manuscripts and make up strewn around. Looking at it made me stressed, and I realised that, when I entered it after - [How Intelligent People Can Become Stupid.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/07/how-intelligent-people-can-become-stupid/) - Blogging through Romans is one of the interesting projects I've embarked on. I love it, love Paul's thinking. The Gospels are like a primary text. A child can understand them. Romans is like a meta-text, literary criticism, analysis. I love thinking it through with Paul. Romans 1:21 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified - [Should Christians Pay Taxes? And how to Evade a Trap](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/08/should-christians-pay-taxes-and-how-to-evade-a-trap-2/) - Matthew 22 15-22 15 Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. The easiest way to get trapped: By one's words If one has reason to be suspicious of someone's intent, it is best to say as little as possible. And, if possible, to avoid the meeting. A mentor of - [Ora et Labora: How Physical Activity helps my Creative and Spiritual Life.](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/23/ora-et-labora-physical-activity-helps-creative-spiritual-life/) - I recently went off routine into a funk. This had been my schedule: Wake, pray, and then read scripture, and blog about it, or whatever the Holy Spirit is bugging me about. This took about two and a quarter hours. After which I did some housework and decluttering for an hour. Then gardened, another hour. - [A Pruned Minimalistic Life is More Fruitful](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/07/pruned-minimalistic-life-fruitful/) - When we were in Tuscany in September, I saw grape vines pruned back drastically to about three feet, and above them, masses of plump abundant grapes, black, green, purple. Grape vines grow as tall as you let them. We have some growing in our conservatory and the side of our barn, which are 10-15 feet. - [What are REALLY the idols of your heart?](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/10/what-are-really-the-idols-of-your-heart/) - Romans 1 21-23 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like a mortal human being - [Ideas as Cats and Other Mysteries of Creativity](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/12/ideas-cats-mysteries-creativity/) - I think of creativity as God’s river or waterfall into which I step. There is a torrent of ideas out there; I just need to slow down, and step into the deluge. Ray Bradbury, however, in his wonderful book on writing, Zen in the Art of Writing, refers to ideas as cats. “I am accustomed - [10 Reflections after Listening to Heidi Baker](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/24/10-reflections-listening-heidi-baker/) - Heidi Baker is, I believe, the closest to the heart of Jesus of any living Christian. Christianity Today wrote a rapturous cover story on her. I heard her in Birmingham, and here are my notes, reflections and resolutions. 1) “Always, always, always, say YES.” Heidi: “I got so yielded that I didn’t have much more - [From "Ambition OR Christ" to "Ambition AND Christ" to "Ambition IN Christ"](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/29/ambition-following-christ/) - Do nothing out of selfish ambition. (Phil 2:3). Many achievers have been wired to achieve from their cradles, a mixture of genetically mediated temperament and family culture. And then we become Christians, and we give up our old identity. We are now hidden in Christ. And what becomes of our old ambition? Well, I can - ["Let Evening Come" by Jane Kenyon](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/19/let-evening-come/) - Let Evening Come BY JANE KENYON Let the light of late afternoon shine through chinks in the barn, moving up the bales as the sun moves down. Let the cricket take up chafing as a woman takes up her needles and her yarn. Let evening come. Let dew collect on the hoe abandoned - ["Fine, Let Them Judge Me": The Peace of Boundaries](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/09/fine-let-judge-peace-boundaries/) - Several years ago now, I was in a Bible study which had some very assertive people who were often unwell. And so there were endless rotas: to take meals around, clean their houses, do their ironing, or give them lifts. Now, I was over-burdened myself, but I didn’t want the leader to judge me as - [The Words Which Change Everything](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/16/words-change-everything/) - Words which take the hard shell of the present When it feels devoid of nourishment, just hard, just hard Take it and crack it, And reveal the sweet meat within it: Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. Though my day is not panning out as it should, Though my work is not panning - [The Greatest Secret in the World by Og Mandino](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/07/the-greatest-secret-in-the-world-by-og-mandino/) - The Greatest Secret in the World by Og Mandino I greeted this day with love in my heart. I praised my enemies. I thought "I love you" silently to all I met today and I loved myself enough to protect my body from overindulgence and my mind from evil and despair. I kept myself away from - [Instructions for Happiness: Become like a child, (Matthew 18)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/24/instructions-for-happiness/) - Matthew 18 The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven 1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” 2 He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3 And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, - [In praise of tiny goals](https://anitamathias.com/2015/05/28/in-praise-of-tiny-goals/) - “A small daily task, if it be really daily, will beat the labours of a spasmodic Hercules," - [Images and Magic Moments  from my trip to Cambodia with Tearfund](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/02/images-magic-moments-trip-cambodia-tearfund/) - Meeting Sambath. “She’s a woman, but works like a man,” the Tearfund worker said--keeping her family going, growing watermelons and rice on unused strips of land she rents from neighbours who work in Phomh-Penh’s garment factories. I watched her give a bag of fresh grown rice (which I had never seen before!) to the Tearfund - [Matthew 18, The Absolute Seriousness of Sin, Blog Through the Bible Project](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/27/matthew-18-the-seriousness-of-sin-blog-through-the-bible-prject/) - Matthew 18 7 Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come! 8 If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled - [Prayer Releases Hope into our Lives](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/prayer-and-the-release-of-hope/) - We watched a documentary "The Secret Life of Plants." A shriveled seedpod waited for the rain to burst it open and release its seeds; fungi waited for rain to release their myriad spores. And in our own lives, prayer releases that rain. When we do not pray, we settle into dry and barren hopelessness, we - [Being Authentic Can Be Tricky, But NOT Being Authentic Can Break Your Heart](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/13/authentic-can-tricky-authentic-can-break-heart/) - I read this entry in Emerson’s journal when I was 21. Journal, March 29, 1832 I will not live out of me. I will not see with others’ eyes. My good is good, my evil ill. I would be free— I cannot be While I take things as others please to rate them. I dare - [How to Deal with Doubt. Difficulties and Doubt Matthew 18, Blog Through the Bible Project](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/25/how-to-deal-with-doubt-difficulties-and-doubt/) - Matthew 18 Causing to Stumble 6 “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. 7 Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! - [A Little Bit of Theology for Victims of Burglaries (Which, Alas, I Have Just Been)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/24/little-bit-theology-victims-burglaries-just/) - So my grandfather, Piedade Felician Mathias, a distinguished surgeon, had invested his life savings in gold jewellery, because gold in India then, as now, rose faster than anything else. And my grandmother, trusting and sanguine as I am, left this on her dressing table. The maid vanished--as did the gold. Everyone wanted my grandfather to - [In Which I Have Never Been Instantly Healed, But Have Always Been Healed](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/19/never-healed-always-healed/) - I have never witnessed a verified physical healing. Never spoken to anyone who had experienced one themselves, following prayer. And I have never experienced an instantaneous physical or emotional healing as someone prayed for me. However, I have never yet NOT been at least partially healed of anything - [A Beautiful Train Wreck into Grace](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/27/train-wreck-grace/) - Sometimes, my tongue runs away with me, and I use my words to express anger and frustration rather than bestow grace and life, and those words steal life and strength rather than lavish them, And I see the red flag of Jesus at the level crossing of my heart, and am stopped dead in - [In which Christ says, "I will let nothing be wasted."](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/04/christ-says-will-let-nothing-wasted/) - I will “let nothing be wasted” (John 6:12). “Nothing, Lord?” “Nothing.” * * * Not the weary years, Not the silent tears, Not the loneliness Which caused that deep, echoing silence in which we could hear you? None of our failures Which silenced the insistent voices Of those who might otherwise have found - [In Which I Resolve Not to Be Afraid](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/07/resolve-afraid/) - So the disciples row for “three or three and a half miles.” (I love these charming details, John striving to remember accurately--and how they make it easier for us to believe in the truth of these memoirs of Jesus.) It’s dark; the wind is raging; the waters are rough. And a figure looms out of - [A Revelation of Divine Love Changes the Deep Structure of our Being](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/10/revelation-divine-love-changes-everything/) - The longest distance in the world is the eighteen inches from the head to the heart. Until our personal revelation of the love of God, we limp as Christians, impelled by duty, not desire, not love. But we really, really change in the deep structure of our being, when we realize what Karl Barth described as the - [The Magic of Amazon Prime](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/16/the-magic-of-amazon-prime/) - So I have a white mocha latte or some such new-fangled concoction with a writer friend at Blackwell's yesterday as we talk about British fantasy writers, and then realize that it has cut into the tenner I stuffed into my jeans to buy myself a book. So I make a note of the book I - [Everything sad will come untrue](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/16/everything-sad-will-come-untrue/) - From The Storybook Bible, Book of Isaiah Image from GirlPreacha Sam believes that Gandalf is dead. And then he sees him. Gandalf says, “Well, Master Samwise, how do you feel?” But Sam lay back, and stared with open mouth, and for a moment, between bewilderment and great joy, he could not answer. At - [A week in Rome](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/20/when-in-rome/) - We are here for the week. Zoe has worked very hard this term with her G.C.S.E's; Irene's worked superlatively hard in Year 7, far beyond the call of duty. Her work is mainly projects, and she produces little well-researched books on each of them. Roy worked hard clearing much of a back-log of years of - [When Waves of Mercy Crash Over My "If Onlys"](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/17/waves-mercy-crash-onlys/) - Motherhood. The land of If Onlys. * * * If only I’d been calmer when I was pregnant with her. If only she’d had a higher birth weight. If only I had breast-fed longer, If only I had used better childcare, Or no child-care. If only I could have home-schooled, Or read to the girls - [The Secret of Accessing God’s Power in our Daily Lives](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/30/secret-accessing-gods-power-daily-lives/) - The phoenix, which rose out of the ashes of his old body, is a symbol of Christ in traditional iconography. It could also be a symbol of the power of prayer. Numerous times in my life, when I have been stuck, prayer–-intense, deep, desperate prayer–-has changed my circumstances. Has reversed the plot. It is, in - [Flying Cars: The accelerating speed at which Technology makes Fantasy Reality!](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/31/flying-cars-the-accelerating-speed-at-which-technology-makes-fantasy-reality/) - When Zoe was little, and we got stuck in interminable traffic jams on our way home from pre-school, she would quite predictably say, " Don't you wish our car could fly?" We all agreed Well, apparently there are now flying cars for real. I can remember longing to be able to carry the internet around - [Stinging Nettle to Butterfly Wings  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/10/stinging-nettle-butterfly-wings/) - And how, and how Could that prickly caterpillar --All bristles and danger-- Feeding on the stinging nettle in my garden Become a peacock butterfly, Four shimmering iridescent eyes? My God, my God, redeemer, Even today, take my life, The years lost to self-pity, anger and sadness, False starts, wrong directions, promising trails abandoned - [Ten Shekels and a Shirt](https://anitamathias.com/2008/11/01/ten-shekels-and-a-shirt/) - "Ten Shekels and a Shirt" Paris Reidhead's fiery sermon is one of the most listened to sermons of all time. Read the transcript here http://www.parisreidheadbibleteachingministries.org/tenshekels.shtml - [Thin Places: Where the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds is almost transparent](https://anitamathias.com/2012/07/16/thin-places-where-the-veil-between-the-physical-and-spiritual-worlds-is-almost-transparent/) - The High Cross at Fflad-y-Brenin Celtic Christians prized “thin places,” where the boundaries between the spiritual and physical world are almost transparent. Where we can sense shimmering in the physical world the just-as-real, invisible, supernatural world, charged with the glory of God, with hills ringed with angels in chariots of fire. Could God really be - [Images from a Magical Week at the Isle of Man](https://anitamathias.com/2015/04/01/images-from-a-magical-week-at-the-isle-of-man/) - Images from a Magical Week at the Isle of Man. St Patrick's Isle, Cashtel yn Ard Stone Circle, St. Trinian's Chapel, Calf Sound, Glen Helen, Glen Willen, - [Theophanies: St John at Patmos, A Sermon at St. Aldate's](https://anitamathias.com/2010/09/12/theophanies-st-john-at-patmos-a-sermon-at-st-aldates/) - St John at Patmos, John's vision of Patmos (a vision rather than a theophany, incidentally!) Among the lampstands was someone "like a son of man," dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest.14His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes - [The people walking in darkness have seen a great light](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/26/a-great-light/) - Peter Adams, Sunrise over Cat Mountain The most joyful and comforting and inspiring project of this young year has been Blogging Through the Bible. For one, given that I am also a mum, and a writer, and a pet-owner, and an owner of a publishing company which solely supports our family, and a middle-aged woman - [On Liturgy (which I Dislike)  ](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/18/on-liturgy-which-i-do-not-like/) - Liturgy does not work for me, at all, though I am learning that spiritual practices are like food. Different people like different things! - [Why I live in a yurt, off the grid, on a mountain in Idaho. A guest post by Esther Emery](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/13/live-yurt-grid-mountain-idaho-guest-post-esther-emery/) - Do you know anybody who lives off the grid? Well, now you do. I do. I live in a yurt, which is a kind of a wonderful round tent, on three acres of wooded Idaho mountainside, with no power and no running water. Mine is a rich life, full of wild and beauty. It is - [If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink--Thought for the Day](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/18/if-anyone-is-thirsty-let-him-come-to-me-and-drink-thought-for-the-day/) - John 7:37 “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”c]">[c] 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. What stinted views, unjust conceptions, and wrong interpretations have we cherished of Him, - [On Juggling](https://anitamathias.com/2015/03/08/on-juggling/) - Juggling words, ideas, balls...waiting for beauty to emerge - [One Work Goal for 2105: Focus](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/23/one-work-goal-for-2105-focus/) - My one word work goal for 2015: Focus - [The Comfort of Good Men (and Women!)](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/12/the-comfort-of-good-men-and-women/) - The Comfort of Good Men (and Women!) “It is true, indeed, that good men are seen to be the sources of no small comfort to others in this world. For if we be harassed by poverty, or saddened by bereavement, or disquieted by bodily pain, or pining in exile, or vexed by any kind of - [Will We Let Anything Separate God from Our Love?](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/07/will-anything-separate-god-love/) - In Romans, Paul says that nothing neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. No matter what we do, no matter - [The Good Things of January](https://anitamathias.com/2015/02/03/good-things-january/) - Recording three good things a day this month--including going chemo-free, Irene's prize in the National Cipher Challenge, a weekend at Torquay & good health - [If You Should Ever Want My Life, Come and Take It](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/11/ever-want-life-come-take/) - In Chekhov’s haunting play The Seagull, the beautiful country girl, Nina, who dreams of being an actress, writes to the narcissistic playwright, Trigorian, “If you should ever want my life, come and take it.” He does; oh he does! He comes; he takes it; he casts it away, a poor discarded thing. Nina returns home, broken. She has - [What Children Know: What it Means to Truly Live (A Guest Post by Laura Boggess)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/10/08/laura/) - I am honoured and excited to be hosting Laura Boggess today. I am reading her exquisite book Playdates with God with much delight. Do yourself a favour and buy it too--today!! Playdates with God What Children Know: What it Means to Truly Live A few frail drops of rain fall and I sit at the - [Changing the Soil of My Heart, Little by Little  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/08/06/changing-soil-heart-little-little/) - I read the Gospels, I hear them preached, and tap, tap, tap, go my jubilant feet. The Gospels tell me lovely things I wanted to believe but feared were not true; that fellow Christians often suggested were not true, by their deeds, if not their words; and that our world definitely believes are not true. - [Forgive, but Remember Graciously. With the Wisdom of a Serpent & Gentleness of a Dove](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/26/people-can-change-forgive-remember-graciously-wisdom/) - Woodcut by Gustave Dore I am reading through The Book of Genesis. Joseph’s ten older brothers hated him. Of course, they did. The favourite son with the ornamented robe, who told tales on them, to whom they bowed in their dreams--dreams they uneasily sensed were prescient. Eight brothers wanted to kill him. Reuben suggested throwing - [On Trusting our Work to God: Moving Upwards by Standing Still](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/29/trusting-work-god-moving-upwards-standing-still/) - Reginald Arthur, 1893, Joseph before Pharaoh Joseph is seventeen when he sees his sheaf stand up and his brothers’ sheaves bow down. When he sees the sun, moon and eleven stars bow to him. * * * Interestingly, God shows him his destiny, the end of his days, but not what he needs to do - [My One Word for 2015 : Joy](https://anitamathias.com/2015/01/19/one-word-2015-joy/) - My One Word goal for 2105 is joy. I'll chase it through prayer, surrender, scripture, worship music, nature, writing, exercise, reading & friendship! - [In which Jesus Promises Rest to the Meek](https://anitamathias.com/2013/09/30/jesus-promises-rest-meek/) - I like Jesus’ great invitation at the end of Matthew 11:“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden - [I Will Not Let You Go Unless You Bless Me](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/07/will-let-go-unless-bless/) - Jacob and the Angel by Sir Jacob Epstein, 1940–1941 I saw you in the middle of the night, in the middle of my failure. For twenty years had I striven with my foes, seven years of hard work for Rachel… but I was deceitfully given Leah, whom I did not want. Another seven for Rachel. - [In which Manipulation Backfires (in the long run). Not so seeking God’s Blessing!](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/27/in-which-manipulation-does-not-work-in-the-long-run-but-gods-blessing-does/) - I am reading the story of Jacob in Genesis. God tells Rebecca who was pregnant with twins, “The older will serve the younger.” When we meet the twins in Genesis 26, Esau, “a skilful hunter,” comes in famished, and wants Jacob’s red stew. Jacob, “a quiet man, staying among the tents,” driving an exploitative - [“Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it:” How the Best Thing can Spring out of the Worst Thing](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/23/surely-the-lord-is-in-this-place-and-i-was-not-aware-of-it-how-the-best-thing-can-spring-out-of-the-worst-thing/) - So Jacob, running from murderous Esau whom he has cruelly and unscrupulously deceived, rests at Bethel. And in his dream, he sees a stairway between heaven and earth, with the angels of God ascending and descending on it. And at the top, stood the Lord, who speaks blessing and encouragement. And Jacob says, - [And Sarah Snorted. When our Faith Falters, But God’s Goodness Remains Constant](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/08/and-sarah-snorted-when-our-faith-falters-but-gods-goodness-remains-constant/) - Arent de Gelder 1645-1727 Three white-clad men walk out of the desert, out of the shimmering sands. Such is their calm and majesty that Abraham, the Patriarch, “very wealthy in silver and gold, sheep and cattle and camels and male and female donkeys, menservants and maidservants” runs to meet them, bows low to the ground, - [The Beatitudes, mostly, are things we do, rather than things we are. There's hope in that!](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/01/beatitudes-objective-statements-reality-whether-believe/) - The Beatitudes are the blazing heart of everything Jesus taught. Once you’ve got them, once you’re living them, then you’ve begun to “get” Jesus and the way he thinks. And I am only beginning to! For the Beatitudes to travel the longest journey in the world, from the head to the heart, is a life-long - [In Which Stars Make News Viral, and We Can Trust our PR to Him](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/20/star-born/) - His birth could not have been more humble, more anonymous--in a manger, for there was no room at the inn. Of their social network, only Elizabeth, Mary’s elderly cousin, confined by pregnancy, and married to the priest Zechariah who was temporarily dumb, had been told. But everything was in the hands of God who loved - [Anita's Belated 2014 Christmas Letter and Early New Year Letter](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/27/anitas-belated-2014-christmas-letter-early-new-year-letter/) - Summing up: Cambodia, Helsinki, Spain, France, Labradoodles, cancer, Oxford University, prizes, burglaries, prophecies. Tearfund, radio, 25th anniversary - [Most Read Posts of 2014 on Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/30/read-posts-2014-dreaming-beneath-spires/) - The Most Read Posts of 2014 - [A Magical Week in France: Chenonceau, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, Villandry, Bois des Moitiers, Parc de Marquenterre, Etretat](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/26/chenonceau/) - A Magical Week in France: Chenonceau, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, Villandry, Bois des Moitiers, Parc de Marquenterre, Etretat - [On Cancer, Suffering, and the Cloud of Unknowing](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/17/cancer-suffering-cloud-unknowing/) - In which "I don't know why" is a perfectly valid response to suffering (cancer in my case) -as is trusting God anyway. - [The Stalingrad Madonna: Life, Love, Light at Christmas](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/22/stalingrad-madonna-life-love-light-christmas/) - A moment of life, light and love at Christmas for the beseiged German Sixth Army at Stalingrad - [God Saw the Light was Good, but He Left Darkness Too](https://anitamathias.com/2014/10/15/god-saw-light-good-left-darkness/) - God created darkness as well as light in the beginning, and called both good. A meditation on the sadness and the darkness, which God left in the beginning. - [Making a Difference Through Prayer and Writing: In Praise of Julian of Norwich](https://anitamathias.com/2014/12/01/making-difference-prayer-writing-praise-julian-norwich/) - Writing & prayer can make a difference! Julian of Norwich, bricked into a cell for decades, wrote words that influence & comfort the world 600 years later! - [Thoughts on my Twenty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/11/20/thoughts-twenty-fifth-wedding-anniversary/) - Thoughts on my twentieth-fifth wedding anniversary - [On a LifeStyle of Forgiveness](https://anitamathias.com/2010/12/28/following-the-star/) - The Giant Red Star Mira "A Lifestyle of Forgiveness." I owe this phrase to Jack Miller, father of our friend Paul. Jack, a pastor, writer, theologian, founder of World Harvest Mission etc. etc. wrote a moving book called Come Back Barbara. Barbara, his daughter, was an angry renegade and prodigal, moved in with a druggie, - [Brother Lawrence, Living in Heaven on Earth](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/28/brother-lawrence-living-in-heaven-on-earth/) - Quotes from Brother Lawrence "In the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquillity as if I were upon my knees in the Chapel." “Make it your study, before taking up any task,” Brother Lawrence advises, “to look - [For the Fallen--Laurence Binyon](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/29/for-the-fallen-laurence-binyon/) - For The Fallen Laurence Binyon With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children, England mourns for her dead across the sea. Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit, Fallen in the cause of the free. Solemn the drums thrill; Death august and royal Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres, There is music in the midst of desolation And - [Walking on the Waters, Looking at Jesus, in the Shadow of the Big C (who Must not be Named)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/11/04/walking-waters-looking-jesus-shadow-big-c-must-named/) - Walking on the waters, holding Jesus' hand, in the face of a health scare - [In which Rest is an Essential Part of the Creative Process](https://anitamathias.com/2014/10/24/rest-essential-part-creative-process/) - Sabbath rest is an essential part of the creative process. It teaches us to rely not on might or power, but on God's Spirit & on the Divine Economy. - ["My Grandmothers and I"-- the charming memoir of Diana Holman-Hunt](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/26/my-grandmothers-and-i-the-charming-memoir-of-diana-holman-hunt/) - My Grandmothers and I-- the charming memoir of Diana Holman-Hunt Diana Holman-Hunt's "My grandmothers and I" is a unique and thoroughly enjoyable memoir. As her name suggests, she is the grand-daughter of William Holman-Hunt who has given us iconic and beloved images like Light of the World. She was also, on her mother's side, the - [In which Imaginative Literature Stirs the Heart to Conversion (A Guest Post by Holly Ordway)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/10/13/holly-ordway/) - I am honoured to welcome Dr. Holly Ordway to my blog today. In which Imaginative Literature Stirs the Heart to Conversion How could a fierce atheist enter into Christian faith? There are many ways for God’s grace to work; my own story is one that highlights the importance of imaginative literature! When I was firmly - [Like a fish out of water, I gasp for you, Lord](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/26/like-a-fish-out-of-water-i-gasp-and-thrash-for-you/) - Like a fish, That pants and thrashes, Out of its salty oceans, I gasp for you, Lord. I am no amphibian. Though I may flap in a flourish of activity, I gain nothing by it when I am out of your world, when your oxygen does not flood my gills. You are the sea in - [Jake and Us](https://anitamathias.com/2010/09/19/jake-and-us/) - Roy, I & Jake just went for a lovely moonlight 9 p.m. run down our dirt country lane--access only, no cars. He says I am just like Jake the Collie, in that I love to curl up all day, and pretend I like runs. I said HE was like Jake the Collie, in that he - [The British Library's Exhibition on the Continuing Evolution of English](https://anitamathias.com/2010/12/20/the-british-librarys-exhibition-on-the-continuing-evolution-of-english/) - British Library Sponsored Post One of the things on my list for the New Year is to go to the British Library exhibition on Evolving English, which continues until the 3rd April 2011. It has treasures such as the only surviving manuscript of Beowulf, Shakespeare 'quartos', the King James Bible, Dr Johnson’s dictionary and recordings - [ On The Falsity of Scarcity Thinking and the Fact of Abundance Everywhere ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/22/falsity-scarcity-thinking-fact-abundance-everywhere-p-s-please-help-tearfund-help-cambodia/) - In which I help dig a field for a community project When I am stressed, I go into scarcity mode. I just want to survive. I just want people to help me survive. I withdraw into my hard tortoise shell and want to stay there till the storm has passed, occasionally sticking out my head - [In which God Chose to Let There Be Darkness as Well as Light--and Pronounced Them Both Good](https://anitamathias.com/2013/03/29/let-there-be-light-and-let-there-be-darkness-too-and-it-is-all-very-good/) - Image Credit Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called - [When, For a Season, God Himself Blocks You](https://anitamathias.com/2014/10/02/season-god-blocks/) - Sometimes God himself blocks us. He imposes a period of silence & failure to woo us to himself & purify our hearts before he restores the locust-eaten years - [When Christians Behave Badly: Seedlings and Saplings in God’s Kingdom](https://anitamathias.com/2014/09/23/christians-behave-badly-seedlings-saplings-gods-kingdom/) - A friend of mine had once been deeply humiliated by a fellow Christian, a soulful worship leader. She told me the story, then burst into tears, saying, “I don’t even know if she’s a Christian. I cannot bear to watch her lead worship.” My friend left that church. I often think that when I am - [Lolly Woodward Dunlap 1/2/1922-9/8/2009](https://anitamathias.com/2010/09/06/lolly-woodward-dunlap-121922-982009/) - My thoughts have been full of Lolly Dunlap who left this life on the 8th of September. We met weekly almost exactly 8 years ago during a difficult season of my life. We met to pray, study Scripture, and talk--i.e. me soaking in her wisdom and loving spirit. She was one of the most generous - [In which I am Surprised by “Prophetic Words” (from the Glasgow Prophetic Centre at David’s Tent Worship Festival) ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/09/29/davids-tent-4/) - People from the Glasgow Prophetic Centre were offering “prophetic words” at David’s Tent: An Adventure in Worship, a 72 hour worship festival I went to in August. I signed up for a 15 minute slot. I am “prophetic” with a very small p. Prophecy, as Paul writes, is a spiritual gift, a little-understood one, though - [The Only Thing Which Can Fill Us Completely](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/18/what-fills-your-tank/) - What fills your tank? Here's a memorable talk I listened to, at a retreat for leaders of women's Bible studies in Williamsburg . The speaker, svelte, beautiful, rich, put a crystal water jug in front of us. Into it, she put the keys of her house (in the best neighbourhood!); her mini-van (a Volvo I've long - [Oh, Let it All End in Worship  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/09/18/oh-let-end-worship/) - And Jacob worshipped as he leaned on the top of his staff (Gen. 47:31). And so it ends, Jacob’s long busy life of intrigue and wrestling. Ever has he schemed, manipulated and deceived to get the blessings which God intended to give him even before he was born (Gen 25:23). And his intrigues backfire--disastrously. Quite - [Let me be singing when the evening comes ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/09/12/let-singing-evening-comes/) - My daughters, Zoe and Irene, returned from a visit to my mother in India moved and struck by a 91 year old childless widow called Jenny. Jenny lived alone, in a tiny house that a landlord had carved off from his own house. One "room" was a corridor. Her tiny bedroom leaked and the landlord - [17255: Numbering my Days to Learn Wisdom ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/09/06/17255-numbering-days-learn-wisdom/) - Joash shooting the arrow of deliverance. William Dyce Last week, during a 72 hour worship festival, I found myself thinking of a dominant woman in my life, who apparently delighted in blocking my ideas. Off and on, I mentally composed apparently innocuous emails to her, sardonic and biting in a veiled way, emails I would “accidentally” - [Bayeux Cathedral, The Bayeaux Tapestry, Visiting Bayeux, Normandy ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/29/bayeux-normandy-2/) - I had a perfect day. I loved Bayeux Cathedral--a fantastic mish-mash of flying buttresses and gargoyles from the outside, inside, a chaste Gothic cathedrals with the most amazing stained glass. I just love Gothic cathedrals. Nothing prepares you for the moment of sheer awe and wonder when you enter from the dusty exterior, frequently covered - [Prayer is powerful in every domain of life, even business](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/25/prayer-and-business/) - I own a business, a small publishing company, and since I got into business 4 years ago, in my forties, with no previous training or experience, I need to run it by prayer. Which I do. Successfully when I remember to pray, stressfully when I do not. And here's an example which is pretty amazing. - [Smilla's Sense of Snow](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/25/smillas-sense-of-snow/) - I hardly ever watch thrillers, since I get emotionally over-involved in them, and hence nervous. However, I was fascinated by the premise of this novel when I first read a review of it--Smilla who can read snow. I remember studying in linguistics that people find words for what is important to them. The Eskimos, for - [A Waterfall Cascading Down Upon Me](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/24/a-waterfall/) - I have a friend, who believes she has ME, who, perhaps because of her physical limitations, is forced into closer communion with God. She is very prophetic. We prayed together just before I went to Ireland, and she said that she had an image of a waterfall cascading down on me during my travels. Well, - [Does Exercise Make You a Better Person?](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/20/does-exercise-make-you-a-better-person/) - When I had a David Lloyd, Oxford, membership, I used to be surprised by how happy everyone seemed. Smiley, happy, positive and ebullient. Most or all of the staff were probably not Christians, so there was no spiritual explanation at work. I had to look for natural explanations for why they seemed more happy and - [In your anger, do not sin. Psalm 4.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/23/in-your-anger-do-not-sin-psalm-4/) - I have reached Psalm 4 in my daily rotational Bible reading of Psalms. And here is what stood out "In your anger, do not sin; When you are on your beds, Search your hearts and be silent." Hmm. Not do not be angry (impossible, when you are a woman of unclean lips, living amidst a - [I removed the burden from their shoulders, Psalm 81](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/21/i-removed-the-burden-from-their-shoulders-psalm-81/) - Scripture in general, and the Psalms in particular, grow with you. They become more and more precious the longer you live, as you remember a particular time in your life when they gave you so much comfort and guidance. Psalm 81 one of my favourites. In 2006, I did two things I could ill-afford. I found - ["The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/21/the-god-of-small-things-by-arundhati-roy-2/) - Hmm. I admire this book. It is exquisitely well-constructed. It is original. I love the way Roy plays with language and creates a language of her own. I love her vivid descriptions, and the exactitude and verisimilitude of her childhood memories. I can relate to what she mentions--the Indian childhood; the passion for "The Sound - [On Setting Down Roots in Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/21/roots-in-oxford/) - The plum trees that we planted in 2006 have been covered with the sweetest, most delicious plums this year. Interestingly it took them 3.5 years to bear fruit. Hmm. My life has been marked by moves from city to city, from country to country. Here is its trajectory--Born in Jamshedpur, India; moved to boarding school - [Our Pet House Rabbits](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/24/our-pet-house-rabbits/) - The other joy of our summer, Irene's in particular, was the three young baby rabbits. One of them is going to the Mitchells, but Irene has it for the summer, and has walked around cradling and kissing them, and got them so tame. Rabbits are the most loving animals ever, and are capable of multiple - [In Which All Curses are Broken](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/19/the-breaking-of-the-curse/) - The Brazen Serpent by Tintoretto The Curse! We feel its weight. Insecurity, negative thinking, Sharp-tonguedness, meanness Fear of failure: Patterns we observed in our parents That the Enemy of our souls Tries to imprint on us. The things our parents said we could never do, Our enemies said we would never do, Mean - [Homo Sapiens and Homo Stupidus: On Giftedness and its Price](https://anitamathias.com/2014/08/18/homo-sapiens-homo-stupidus-giftedness-price/) - I live-blogged in Cambodia recently, fund-raising for a charity. We were to be accompanied by a "Christian celebrity" who had promised to do national talks on her return. The posters had been printed. Well, she was not at Heathrow. Among several possible forms of ID, she sent off her passport to get her driver's - [Alice Munro--Consummate Short Story Writer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/10/28/alice-munro-consummate-short-story-writer/) - Alice Munro My favourite short story writer, hands down, is Alice Munro. I love her jewelly miniaturist's art, her contorted sentences, the elegaic tone which pervades her work, her sharp eye, her sense of hard-won wisdom, the sadness and beauty which breathes through her work. Her work is restful, rejuvenating, a tonic for me. - ["My Grandmothers and I": A Memoir by Diana Holman-Hunt](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/20/my-grandmothers-and-i-a-memoir-by-diana-holman-hunt/) - Diana was the granddaughter of the Pre-Raphaelite painter, William Holman-Hunt, and the great-niece of Millais. A more interesting lineage than most, and one which provided her a more rarefied childhood than most. Rarefied, not necessarily happy. She was abandoned into the care of these grandmothers by a childish, selfish father, who does suddenly appear from governing the - [Guilt Causes Paralysis, and Christ’s Forgiveness Rescues us from it](https://anitamathias.com/2013/08/28/guilt-causes-paralysis-and-christs-forgiveness-heals-us-from-it/) - A haunting passage in Carl Gustav Jung’s memoir, Memories, Dreams, and Reflections, describes a woman from whom horses, dogs and people fled, for they sensed dark guilt within her. "A lady came to my office. It was apparent that she belonged to the upper levels of society. She had been a doctor, she said. - [When God tells you to build a ship in the desert! And He is simply outrageous](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/20/when-god-tells-you-to-build-a-ship-in-the-desert/) - When is it God for sure? When it is rational and commonsensical? Sometimes. Since we are made in the image of God who gave us common-sense, he presumably employs it himself. However, what happens when God tells you to do something mind-blowing and outrageous? What if you live in a desert, surrounded by sand and - [401 Ways to get Your Children to Work at Home by Bonnie McCullough](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/19/401-ways-to-get-your-children-to-work-at-home/) - 401 Ways to get Your Children to Work at Home Bonnie McCullough I strongly recommend this book. I bought it when Zoe was three, and it gives step by step suggestions for all the tasks a child should have mastered between the age of 2 and 18--age-appropriate suggestions for what a child could do to - [I don't have time to maintain these regrets  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/28/dont-time-maintain-regrets/) - Creativity is the art of combining old materials--even apparently wasted ones--into new forms. - [The Byzantine Art of Mosaics and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Ravenna](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/12/the-byzantine-art-of-mosaics-and-the-mausoleum-of-galla-placidia-ravenna/) - I loved the bright, perfectly preserved mosaics in Ravenna, and decided to research them a bit. In Byzantine times, the greatest gift an emperor could bestow on a dependent town was a few tons of gold, glass and enamel--and an artist. From Justinian's time, the art became a trademark of Byzantine civilization. As part of - [Prayer, when in a Funk  ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/i-am-in-a-bad-mood/) - I am in a bad mood, Irritable, cross, Tinder waiting for a match. How then do I ask For your Spirit To inhabit This tense habitation Of grumpiness? But need I hesitate? You are a waterfall, That can sweep away My dust and ashes In an instant. You are the wild - [An Amazing Business Success Story: The Story of Wall Drug, South Dakota](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/18/an-amazing-business-success-story-the-story-of-wall-drug/) - Roy and I drove to Yellowstone National Park and the Badlands about 20 years ago. As we neared the town of Wall, South Dakota, more precisely, as we were about 100 miles away, we began to see signs. 99 miles to Wall Drug. Free Iced water, and 5 cent coffee. And so on, probably 200 signs, - [The Law Simply Does not Work. In Marriage or Elsewhere. We need Grace!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/17/the-law-simply-does-not-work-in-marriage-or-elsewhere-up-with-grace/) - In the story of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve all the trees of the garden as food. Except, except–the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And which tree which was the most attractive to them? And irresistible? And eaten? That is the way of the law. It makes doing what you - [In which I learn not to let my heart be troubled, but to trust Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/16/do-not-let-your-hearts-be-troubled-trust-in-god-trust-also-in-me-john-141/) - Image Credit "Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Trust in God; trust also in me." John 14:1 This is one of my favourite verses from Scripture. Again and again, when I am stressed, I say it to myself, and, literally, by a mental decision, exchange fear for trust. I - [Dreaming in Helsinki (A Magical Week in Beautiful Helsinki)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/24/dreaming-in-helsinki/) - Images and tales from a week in Helsinki - [Irene's new bedroom furniture--seriously cool!!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/15/irenes-new-bedroom-furniture-seriously-cool/) - I have just bought this from John Lewis for Irene's room in preparation for high school next month--and a serious declutter of childhood, and its lovely toys. Isn't it a seriously cool and imaginative, space-maximizing, and practical piece of furniture? Though I would have preferred it in dark wood. She chose it herself. I really - [In which light is stronger than darkness](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/09/and-the-light-shines-in-the-darkness/) - The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. John 1:15 Light is brighter than darkness, Goodness stronger than evil. All the darkness in this world cannot extinguish a candle but a candle brightens the most majestic hall. All the darkness of the wild woods cannot quench a candle, but that - [Allah and Jesus: Thoughts at Ramadan](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/15/allah-and-jesus-thoughts-at-ramadan/) - When we moved into our house in Garsington, Oxfordshire, four and a half years ago, we hired a local Muslim moving company. No complaints, they liked us, we liked them, we are accustomed to dealing with Muslims and understand them. Oh, one oddity! Like clockwork, they stopped at certain times, put our boxes down, put - [The Greek Rooms, Ashmolean, "I have gazed upon the face of Agamemnon"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/13/the-greek-rooms-ashmolean-i-have-gazed-upon-the-face-of-agamemnon/) - Roy and I spent the afternoon with Irene in the Ashmolean in the Greek rooms. She can now spell Mediterranean, and rattle off the names of the 12 Olympian Gods. Loved the jewellery, a lot like Indian jewellery, and still beautiful after 25 centuries. Good replicas of Schliemann's horde, including the famous mask of Agamemmon--"I - [La Cage Aux Folles](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/13/la-cage-aux-folles/) - I love French comedies, partly because so much is left unstated, relying on understated facial expressions. We enjoyed watching La Cage Aux Folles, the old French comedy recently. It was tender and touching--the unbreakable bond between the Renato, the aging nightclub owner, and his star attraction and gay lover, the transvestite diva, Albin, and about - [In Which Irene's Room is Like the Room of Requirement in Harry Potter](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/13/roy-battles-the-monster-of-irenes-room/) - Yesterday, Roy took on the the Herculean task of combatting the clutter in Irene's room. It is like the Room of Requirement in Harry Potter, Zoe says. Whatever we needed and missed is to be found there--under her bed!! - [ Thinking of God Through the Watches of an Insomniac Night](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/13/i-think-of-you-through-the-watches-of-the-night/) - David's dynamic relationship with God is really impressive. "On my bed, I remember you. I think of you through the watches of the night." Psalm 63:6 "When I awake, I am still with thee." Psalm 139:18. I am intense, and love my green tea. So sleeping early has always been problematic. So when I am - [In which sowing goodness leads to a more abundant harvest that we could have imagined](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/12/good-turns-and-an-abundant-harvest/) - In late 2006, we planted bare rooted twigs in our orchard--cherries, and plums, yellow, red, and purple. This week we have harvested hundreds of plums off these bare rooted twigs that cost less than a pound each. And in the years to come, God willing, those twigs, which grew from a single seed, will give us - [A River Runs Through it by Norman Maclean](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/12/a-river-runs-through-it-by-norman-maclean-3/) - I first heard about this book from the legendary editor Ted Solotaroff whom I met at the Squaw Valley Writers Conference, California. Ted had build a career discovering new young writers. I asked him if he knew of splendid writers who published their first books later in life. "Not many," Ted replied, but then mentioned Norman - [The Family For Whom Everything Went Wrong](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/11/the-family-for-whom-everything-went-wrong/) - I once knew a family for whom everything went wrong. Consistently. For instance, the father of the family decided to retile the leaky roof on his house. But when winter came, it wasn't done, and they all crowded into one room, and all got ill. They had a massive vegetable garden, kept chickens (this was - [Our edible hedge is full of plums](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/11/our-edible-hedge-is-full-of-plums/) - 3.5 years ago, we planted an edible hedge in our paddock, using plants from Buckingham Nurseries. I really like the cottage garden style of edible hedges, which did double and triple duty as a food source (and way to keep your animals and poultry in, and other animals and trespassers out. We wanted a hedge - [Irene and Anne of Green Gables](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/11/irene-and-anne-of-green-gables/) - Irene and I were swimming together at David Lloyd's, her chattering animatedly as usual. Finally, I said, facetiously, "Irene, let's be quiet for a bit. Let me meditate on my sorrows." "Oh, don't," she said, "You'll become morbid!" What? "Where did you learn that from, Irene?" "Anne of Green Gables." She has listened to all - [On Eating Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/10/i-am-the-bread-of-life/) - I am the bread of life. Unless you eat my flesh, you have no life in you. John 6:35 "I am the living bread that came down from heaven." "This bread is my flesh which I will give for the life of the world." "Unless you eat the flesh of the son of man, and - [  Things can happen very quickly once we take Jesus into our boats    ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/10/john-6-and-immediately-the-boat-reached-the-shore/) - “The disciples got into a boat, and set out across the lake for Capernaum. By now, it was dark, and a strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. When they had rowed three miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water, and they were terrified. But he said to them, - [How gardening fills my life with hope. And secret garden conversations with God](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/14/gardening-fills-life-hope-secret-garden-conversations-god/) - I more or less decided to buy our house, after seeing pictures of it online: it had 9 of the 10 things I was praying for. And one of these was a massive garden. Much to my husband’s annoyance, when we viewed the house, I asked to see the garden first. I fell fast in - [The Magical Moment in Which You Realize that You Are, or Will Be a Writer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/the-magical-moment-in-which-you-realize-that-you-are-or-will-be-a-writer-2/) - The Magical Moment in Which You Realize that You Are, or Will Be a Writer Anne Sexton said she realized that she was a poet (I suppose she meant that she had the capacity to be a poet) while watching John Berryman read on TV. It really a magical moment, the sort of moment in - [Cider with Rosie--An Exquisite Memoir](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/cider-with-rosie-a-perfectly-constructed-and-exquisitely-written-memoir-2/) - I am in the second or third draft of my own memoir, and have finally solved the problem of structure, I believe.I love the structure of Laurie Lee's memoir.I have loved Cider with Rosie for well over a decade. Laurie Lee's writing is so exquisite, so perfect, it almost makes me want to cry with pleasure. He - [How Prayer Raises One's IQ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/anne-lamott-one-of-the-best-prayers-help-me-help-me-help-me/) - Anne Lamott in Travelling Mercies. “Here are the two best prayers I know: “Help me, help me, help me” and “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” Sometimes when one is exhausted, overwhelmed and overwrought that is all one is capable of. Isn’t it amazing that it qualifies as prayer? Anne Lamott–”Sometimes if I’m praying for - [Ithaca by Constantine Cavafy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/ithaca-by-constantine-cavafy-2/) - There is as much joy, as much of richness and knowledge in the journey as in the destination. Ithaca When you set out on your journey to Ithaca, pray that the road is long, full of adventure, full of knowledge. The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops, the angry Poseidon -- do not fear them: You will - [Te Deum by Charles Reznikoff](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/te-deum-by-charles-reznikoff/) - Not because of victories I sing, having none, but for the common sunshine, the breeze, the largesse of the spring. Not for victory but for the day’s work done as well as I was able; not for a seat upon the dais but at the common table. - [ALIVE BY R.S. THOMAS, the priest-poet of the Welsh Hills](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/07/alive-by-r-s-thomas/) - Alive. It is alive. It is you, God. Looking out I can see no death. The earth moves, the sea moves, the wind goes on its exuberant journeys. Many creatures reflect you, the flowers your colour, the tides the precision of your calculations. There is nothing too ample for you to overflow, nothing so small - [My God, My God, Why did you Employ Me? The Perils of Children's Church](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/my-god-my-god-why-did-you-employ-me-the-perils-of-childrens-church/) - On Easter Sunday, we had the much dreaded all-age service, or "children's church". (No one wanted to miss the Easter service to teach kids, restless kids would make for distracted parents, so the Anglican compromise appears to be, pitch the Easter sermon to the kids.) Anyway, the Rector read the familiar passage of Jesus's death and resurrection, - [House Rabbits, Warm-hearted, loving, social animals](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/rabbits-warm-hearted-loving-social-animals/) - Rabbits are SO social. We had our buck, Bandito, neutered, since he had performed his fatherly duty and fathered a litter of 4, which were all we wanted. The vet suggested that he be kept in isolation for 10 days, so that the other bunnies did not lick him and open his wounds, and so - [Thinking of "Madame Bovary," by Gustave Flaubert.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/thinking-of-madame-bovary-by-gustave-flaubert/) - "Madame Bovary" is exquisite, it is perfection, and it is also exquisitely painful. I do not think I will ever read it again. It is so perfectly rendered a work of fiction that it breaks the heart. Emma Bovary is a silly woman of imaginations and pretensions. She marries a simple plodding doctor who thinks - [I think Continually of Those Who were Truly Great--Stephen Spender](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/i-think-continually-of-those-who-were-truly-great-stephen-spender/) - I just love this rich and lyrical poem. I Think Continually of Those Who Were Truly Great I think continually of those who were truly great. Who, from the womb, remembered the soul's history Through corridors of light where the hours are suns Endless and singing. Whose lovely ambition Was that their lips, still touched - [Chatsworth Estate, Derbyshire](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/chatworth-estate-derbyshire/) - We took off this half-term for three days in Derbyshire. The Peak District looked like something out of a film, which, given the number of movies set there, is a case of circular art-imitating-life/life-imitating art. Gorgeous sheep-filled fields, with streams meandering through them, in autumn’s browns, reds and golds. This was particularly true in Chatsworth - ["The Little World of Don Camillo" by Giovanni Guareschi](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/06/the-little-world-of-don-camillo-by-giovanni-guareschi/) - Charles Darwin said that as he aged fewer and fewer things gave him delight. That’s a melancholy reflection which I hope will not be true of me. However, it’s perhaps becoming a rarer experience for me to be totally seized with delight. That however was my experience on reading The Little World of Don Camillo. I - [Through Scoundrels and Scallywags, Ruffians and Ragamuffins, the Kingdom Advances](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/03/scoundrels-scandals-ruffians-ragamuffins-kingdom-advances/) - So Bill Gothard, who taught 2.5 million people his 32 hour Bible course, is widely accused of sexual harassment, but wealthy Christians attribute their family and business success to him. 2.5 million people study the Bible for 32 hours! Despite him, above him, around him, and quite possibly through him, the kingdom advances. Joyce - [Carolyn Weber introduces "Holy Is the Day: Living in the Gift of the Present" (Guest Post)](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/24/carolyn-weber-introduces-holy-is-the-day/) - I am taking a blog break until the 2nd November, going to a beach cottage in Cornwall to do some serious writing and hiking. For the final post before my break, I am delighted to host Carolyn Weber, author of the beautiful memoir, Surprised by Oxford. Carolyn offers us a lovely and enticing excerpt from - [C.H. Spurgeon on Why Jesus is Better than Switzerland, its Alps and chocolate.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/05/better-than-switzerland-its-alps-and-chocolate/) - "If any of you can save up money to go to Switzerland, you will never regret it, and it need not be expensive to you. If you do not find your head grow on both sides, and have to put your hands up, and say, `I feel as if my brains are straining with their - [Why the Gospel is Good News](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/05/the-gospel/) - The Gospel In my early years as a Christian, I would financially support those who were engaged in humanitarian work and poverty relief, but not those who were engaged in evangelism. Why? Because I was struggling to live out my Christian faith. I did not experience joy. So I was more confident about donating to - ["Speak Memory" by Vladimir Nabokov](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/05/speak-memory-by-vladimir-nabokov-2/) - "Speak Memory" by Vladimir Nabokov is perhaps the most elegant memoir ever written. It is my favourite memoir, and one of my favourite books.Nabokov's prose is so beautiful that all one can do is sigh. Nabokov wrote his book in English, of course, but he was trilingual (Russian, French and English) from an early age, - [A City Set on a Hill cannot be Hidden: Focus on Working, not Networking](https://anitamathias.com/2013/07/02/a-city-set-on-a-hill-cannot-be-hidden/) - So you are going to build a city. Dig its foundations deep. Pour the concrete. Design your buildings. It’s your city: Put in whatever you like—the Alhambra, the Hagia Sophia, the Sagrada Familia, the Parthenon. Throw in Notre Dame and Westminster Abbey. Decorate your buildings as you wish—with the mosaics from Ravenna, or from the Topkapi Palacein Istanbul. It’s your - [On Being Christian with a small c or a big C](https://anitamathias.com/2014/07/02/christian-small-c-big-c-2/) - Image Credit Our family was discussing a writer who has done paradigm-breaking innovative work. "Is she a Christian?" my daughter Irene asked. “Yes. She’s a Christian. With a small C, I’d guess.” "What's that?” Irene asked. "Hmm… Someone who goes to church, more or less respects Jesus and the Bible, but who does not see - [On Friday night prayer, and the deeper fairness of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/05/too-busy-for-the-banquet/) - We have gone three times over the last 6 weeks to the Friday evening soaking prayer sessions in Oxford, sponsored by the Toronto Airport Fellowship Catch the Fire Ministries. What an unusual group of people gather! Each time, I see them, I think of Paul's comment in 1 Corinthians 1, "For consider your call, brethren; - [Missing the Banquet](https://anitamathias.com/2012/02/12/missing-the-banquet/) - Missing the banquet The same story, always. No room in palaces, or middle-class lounges. So He goes where few would choose to. Down. Among those working for small wages, hemmed in by circumstance, forced to be silent, still, and awake to see the glory of an angel-streaked sky, and hear the promise of Joy: A - [Ernesto and Kimberly Rivera--The Soundscape of Heaven](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/05/ernesto-and-kimberly-rivera-the-soundscape-of-heaven/) - I have over the last couple of months discovered the gorgeous haunting music of Ernesto and Kimberly Rivera, an attempt to recreate the soundscape of heaven, they say. What a project! The Riveras say their music comes out of their communion with God. It is spontaneous, unrehearsed and lovely. I highly recommend it for - [Thomas Cromwell, Both a Wily Unscrupulous Politician, and a true Reformer.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/04/thomas-cromwell-both-a-wily-unscupulous-politican-and-a-true-reformer/) - Roy and I took a 20 week course in The History of Christianity at Oxford University this year. We were considering Thomas Cromwell whom the lecturer, Ken Barnes, presented as a true believer in the theological principles of the Reformation. I was astonished. I said, "I thought he was a wily, unscrupulous politician." Ken laughed. - [On Watching Shakespeare's Tempest](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/04/shakespeares-tempest/) - We've just watched the sheerly lovely Tempest at Wadham College, Oxford, a production of The Oxford Shakespeare Company. Clearly enunciated, the poetry brought to life, even though there was too much imported slapstick for my liking and not enough magic! Oh but the poetry! It was delicious! The Tempest is generally considered Shakespeare's last play, - [Circles (vicious and virtuous) and The Parable of Talents](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/03/circles-vicious-and-virtuous-and-the-parable-of-talents/) - Circles (vicious and virtuous) and the Parable of Talents The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25) is a prime chilling illustration of virtuous and vicious circles. If you use what you have well (time, money, talents, relationships) even more will be given you. If you squander what you have (time, money, talents) they diminish steadily. "To - [When We are Caterpillars in a Ring of Fire, and Need Rescue from Above](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/29/caterpillars-ring-fire-need-rescue/) - Image Credit I read a striking essay this week. Two women counsellors listened to my story. I was prayed for very gently. I was encouraged to forgive all the people I felt had done me real or imaginary hurts throughout my life. It took a long time. Eventually, I came to the last thing, and - [On the Goodness and Mercy of God. On the writing of "Isn't He?" by John Wimber](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/05/the-pure-unmerited-goodness-and-mercy-of-god-isnt-he-by-john-wimber/) - Here's a wonderful story from Carol Wimber's book, "The Way it Was." "Right away the Jesus Songs started coming, like a stream of sweet water. I call them airport songs because God gave them to John on his way to or from the airport. "Isn't He?" (which keeps food on my table from the royalties) was another - [Faith as a Dare, a Game of Chicken](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/03/faith-as-a-dare/) - Faith is acting upon what you feel God calling you to do with no guarantees as to whether it will work or not. Walking into the Red Sea. Hoping, believing the waters will part. An act of sheerest insanity. An acting upon what you, or one in whom you put your absolute faith, is absolutely - [And He breathed on them, and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit." Good news!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/03/and-he-breathed-on-them-and-said-receive-the-holy-spirit-good-news/) - And He breathed on them, and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit." And just like that, they did. That's brilliant. For that is why we need. The Holy Spirit to sort out our spirits. To give us wisdom. Self-control. Temperance. Peace. Calm. And as Jesus says, we receive this gift just by asking for it. The - [On Flawed People, Perfect Art, and Happiness](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/27/flawed-people-perfect-art-happiness/) - In Creative Writing graduate school in the US, reading of the scandalous, chaotic and pain-filled private lives of the American poets whose luminous poetry I loved, I naively asked the professor if he thought one needed to be a good man or woman to be a good poet. (We were studying the "prophetic" voice - [Holidays: Restoration, refreshment, rejuvenation, rekindling, renewal](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/02/re-restoration-refreshment-rejuvenation-rekindling-renewal-holidays/) - I really needed our holiday in Ireland. I was worn out creatively, intellectually, mentally and psychologically. I was not sleeping brilliantly. At first, I could not think coherently and deeply. I was too tired to pray, though I was conscious, as always, of God’s presence . My thoughts and emotions lay in a jumbled heap, - [Anthony and Cleopatra at Trinity College Gardens, Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/02/anthony-and-cleopatra-at-trinity-college-gardens-oxford-2/) - I enjoyed the Oxford Shakespeare Company's production of "Anthony and Cleopatra" in the gardens of Trinity College. Trinity at dusk looks more like a stately home than a college. The production of this perennially moving play was professional and gripping--the story of a gifted soldier and politician who finds deeper satisfaction in lust/love than in - [My Favourite Place in the World to Wander: Ireland](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/02/my-favourite-place-in-the-world-to-wander-ireland/) - I love travelling, and have travelled in well over 30 countries, and in every continent but Africa. However, my favourite country to travel in, hands down, is Ireland. It is beautiful and green. It is full of history, mythic, magic and mysticism. It has a poetic pagan past, those wonderful Druids, and an equally poetic - [A caterpillar in a ring of fire: Martin Luther on Grace](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/07/a-caterpillar-in-a-ring-of-fire-martin-luther-on-grace/) - Brunnhilde in the Ring of Fire, Arthur Rackham The wonderful seventeenth century theologian, Philip Melanchton and Martin Luther and Philip Melanchton debate grace. Melanchton says grace is like one parent helping a wobbly toddler across the room to the other parent who crouches down with an apple. Luther says No, it's more than that!! We are caterpillars - [Wicklow Mountains National Park](https://anitamathias.com/2010/08/01/wicklow-mountains-national-park/) - We are now in Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Going on another hike around a lake or two, and then heading for the Rosslare Beaches. We have had splendid weather, it's never rained when we've wanted to hike, and it's warm, but not hot. No need for jumpers or coats. A lovely lake. - [The Dingle Way. The Gallarus Oratory and Beehive Huts](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/31/the-dingle-way-the-gallarus-oratory-and-beehive-hunts/) - We spent a few days on the Dingle Peninsula. The Irish are amusing in that they drive their cars and camper vans straight onto the beach, disregarding the beware of soft sand signs. Not being Irish, we got our car stuck, and asked some freckly youngsters for help. Six or seven of them pushed us - [The Lake Isle of Innisfallen, Ireland](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/28/the-lake-isle-of-innisfallen/) - I will arise and go now, and go to Innisfallen. We are in Killarney National Park, camped (well, in our motor home) on the shores of Lough Leanne. Perfect stillness. Saw a swan and 7 grey cygnets. Enjoyed a walk through lush rain forest, thick with ferns, bracket fungi, massive oaks and strawberry bushes, to - [The Best Way to Forgive--Bend in the Opposite Direction](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/25/best-way-forgive-bend-opposite-direction/) - Image Credit Penelope Swithinbank, an Anglican spiritual director and retreat leader, once told me an excellent way to get over the hump of forgiveness. Like many people, I can struggle to forgive for years, for decades, re-injuring myself in the process--so much so that I am included to think of forgiveness as a miracle God - [The Prayer of Relinquishment and Utter Exhaustion](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/21/the-prayer-of-relinquishment-and-utter-exhaustion/) - One of the first books I read when I became a Christian, aged 17, was Catherine Marshall's "Something More," and I remain very fond of it. She describes a very powerful form of prayer, " The Prayer of Relinquishment" she calls it. It's essentially saying, "Have thine own way. It's okay if you grant me - ["There are no demons in Sweden"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/21/there-are-no-demons-in-sweden/) - One day, I will be organized. I will take my Bible to church, and my notebook, and my notes will be orderly. At present, since sermons usually provide memorable moments of amusement and inspiration (often both), I scribble them on the back of news-sheets. And am now typing them up, to leave a tidy house - [Learning French with both sides of the brain](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/20/learning-french-at-alliance-francaise-with-both-sides-of-the-brain/) - I learn (or used to learn) languages rather easily, I flatter(ed) myself. Early last year, I decided that I was going to become really fluent in French for the fun of it, and for the fun of talking to French speakers when we travel. And because thinking in another language broadens your world view, and - [Encounters with the Angel of Writing](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/14/encounters-with-the-angel-of-writing/) - I heard a really amazing talk last month on writing at—get this!!– a large Charismatic Conference, RiverCamp. The speaker Mark Stibbe talked about the angel of writing, and prayed for an anointing to write for us. I asked for it; I received it. I have always felt guilty and conflicted about my writing, since I got married - ["Useless Prayer" by Henri Nouwen](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/22/happens-house-prayer-measurable-terms-human-success-failure/) - “WHY should I spend an hour in prayer when I do nothing during that time but think about people I am angry with, people who are angry with me, books I should read and books I should write, and thousands of other silly things that happen to grab my mind for a moment? The answer - [Prayer and an Ipod Touch: A Tale](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/20/prayer-and-an-ipod-touch-a-tale/) - Monday Major tears and heartbreak chez Mathias. Irene,11, has lost her Ipod Touch. My prayer group--Anne, Juliet, Helen, Bea and I-- prayed that her she would break her addiction to her Ipod and to computer games. The latter we accomplished by moving her desk around to face the couch where Roy works and password protecting - [Thomas Kinkade, A Beauty which Never Was on Land or Sea](https://anitamathias.com/2012/09/13/thomas-kinkade-a-beauty-which-never-was-on-land-or-sea/) - The hilarious, ironic, and spot-on website Stuff White People Like mentions a sure way to convince your white friends that you are totally unsophisticated "If you wish to ensure that white people will never speak to you about art again, there is an easy escape. Simply mention your favorite artist is Thomas Kinkade and that - [The importance of choosing the right subject](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/19/the-importance-of-choosing-the-right-subject/) - Sad things can happen when a writer chooses the wrong subject,' Wilfrid Sheed once observed. 'First the writer suffers, then the reader, and finally the publisher, all together in a tiny whirlpool of pain.' A sad and exhausting wrestle with your work is a possible sign that you have chosen something that you should not have, - [Why I am Going on a Retreat: Because I am a Caterpillar in a Ring of Fire](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/19/our-week-at-taize-caterpillars-in-a-ring-of-fire/) - I used to go to New Wine in the past, but it was too noisy for me. I needed more time to quietly process what I was hearing, learning, and what the Spirit was saying. In the past, when I went to retreats, I would come back full of wonderful resolutions to revise my life. - [In Which Drivenness Comes from the Enemy of our Souls, but Christ Gives us Balance](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/20/drivenness-comes-enemy-souls-christ-gives-us-balance/) - In her book The Soul of Money, global activist Lynne Twist refers to scarcity as “the great lie”. Twist writes, “For me, and for many of us, our first waking thought of the day is, “I didn’t get enough sleep.” The next one is “I don’t have enough time.” Whether true or not, that thought of “not enough” - ["Let Nothing be Wasted"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/16/let-nothing-be-wasted/) - "Let Nothing be Wasted"--what Jesus said after he multiplied 5 loaves to feed 5 thousand, and landed up with 12 baskets of left-overs. (Divine economics in action!) It feels good to know that that is God's desire--that nothing be wasted, our efforts, our attempts, our dreams, our work, our prayers. And what he desires, he - [When the Spirit Comes, Oh, You will be Unworthy](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/18/spirit-comes-oh-will-unworthy/) - When the Spirit comes, the one sure thing is: You will be unworthy. You cower in the upper room, quite out of ideas and momentum, and he comes like tongues of fire, and your speech is enabled. You stray into a Charismatic meeting aged 17, and joke about speaking in tongues–oh aren’t you suave and - [The Healing Service which was a Turning Point in My Writing Life](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/18/healing-service-at-st-aldates/) - Our family went to a healing service at our church in Oxford yesterday, a couple of Americans from the deep South, Harvey and Callie Boyd I was charmed by the seriousness and sweetness and undoubted integrity of the man. He had a low-key delivery, and when he told us of all the miracles he'd seen, - [New Wine Charismatic Festivals and Spirituality for Introverts and Extroverts](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/16/new-wine-charismatic-festivals-and-spirituality-for-introverts-and-extroverts/) - I am someone who curls into a foetal position when I pray intensely. I kneel, or crouch over the seat in front of me if I am seated, shut out the world and its noise. Or I lie flat on the floor if I am alone, or in a free setting. I would look distinctly - [In which Irene discovers the power of prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/14/ipods-and-the-power-of-prayer/) - Irene, 11, is totally awed by the power of prayer. She was totally addicted to her beloved iPod touch, listening to books on it, emailing, playing games, sleeping with a story playing, waking to its alarm. It was becoming her life. What I objected to were the games. I asked my prayer group, Anne, Juliet, - [Housework as a Pathway to Prayer—with Vermeer’s Women](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/16/housework-pathway-prayer-vermeers-women/) - You can almost hear the silence. The milkmaid is quiet, so quiet, and time is suspended as she pours milk. The hands work while the mind thinks. Is it a life of drudgery, or is it a gift--her trivial chore a window into eternity, time to think, to pray, to look out of the window - [An Undivided Heart makes Dreams Come True](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/15/an-undivided-heart-makes-dreams-come-true/) - An Undivided Heart Makes Dreams Come True. 19 I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. 20 Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and - [Angela Palmer's Ghost Forest, Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/14/angela-palmers-ghost-forest-pitt-rivers-museum-oxford/) - We were all fed up of work and responsibility this evening and went to play. We first walked about the Angela Palmer's Ghost Forest installation near the Pitt Rivers Museum, massive monolithic, eerily beautiful trunks of trees logged in rain forests. Interestingly, Angela Palmer wrote that Anthony Gormley said that it couldn't be done. It - [Philip Pullman on Distraction and the Writing Life](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/14/philip-pullman-on-distraction-and-the-writing-life/) - Philip Pullman What I would like most is a spare month. I feel bad about turning down interview requests and invitations from old friends. But I have got to say no, otherwise I would never write another book. “It’s like sailing an oil tanker and navigating your way across the ocean. When someone says, “Can - [Surya Namaskar: A complete Yoga exercise, stretching almost every muscle](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/14/surya-namaskar-a-complete-yoga-exercise-stretching-almost-every-muscle/) - Surya Namaskar: A complete Yoga exercise, stretching almost every muscle My father took a yoga class in his late 50ies, and became absolutely obsessed with it. He continued practising until he was 89, when he died. He taught me this exercise, Surya Namaskar, which is one of the most iconic and famous yoga exercises. You see - [In which there can be peace and sadness while you do God's will](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/13/is-peace-a-signal-that-you-are-doing-gods-will-usually-not-always/) - Several years ago, I read in Anne Lamott's "Travelling Mercies" a to-me-then unusual way of discerning God's will. She was considering aborting her son Sam. And went to a priest for counsel. (Though it is a tricky situation to see counsel. Hey, what's the poor priest to tell you? Abort the baby? Be creative on - [As Birds Sing Because They Must, Even So I Write](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/13/birds-sing-must-even-write/) - As long as I have a garden to muck about in, and the health to do it, I shall not mind growing old. My garden is a deep joy at the centre of my life, even though I am making peace with not being able to keep up with it: it’s an acre and a - [Sanctification by the Word of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/13/sanctify-them-by-the-truth-your-word-is-truth-john-1717/) - Sanctify them by the Truth; Your word is truth John 17:17 Sanctification, deep positive personality change, has always been something I have longed for. To truly change the deep structure of who I am, shedding stuff I find troublesome, adding traits I would love to have. The theological word for this is "sanctification." And here, - [Irene is a teenager at 11!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/13/irene-is-a-teenager-at-11/) - Irene, 11, is growing up. We had a perfectly lovely evening with friends. I was about to say that I had so enjoyed my conversations when Irene, who was already in the car, her Ipod (which has the Anne of Green Gables series) in her ears, announced with extreme disgust, "Well, THAT was a WASTE - [Why I have Decided to Follow Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/12/decided-follow-jesus/) - As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4 18-20) “Come follow me, - [Why God Loves the World Cup](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/15/why-god-loves-the-world-cup/) - Why God loves the World Cup The privileged world, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands, competes with the developing world, Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon and the Ivory Coast--and does not necessarily win. Vuvuzelas are democratically annoying. Northern Europeans get all colourful For a month, everyone forgets their problems. Patriotism grows intense. Nations grow unified as at times of war. - [Revision](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/12/revision/) - Revision is a bit like piano-tuning, trying to develop perfect pitch. Shake your page so that all unnecessary words fall off, so that what remains is tighter, preciser. Revision is easier when you view the piece of work at a distance, far from the memories of the ecstasy, ardour, sweat and love which attended its - [The Gift of an English Country Idyll](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/12/the-gift-of-an-english-country-idyll/) - I have thoroughly enjoyed the 5 years we have lived in the English countryside, in Garsington. One of my favourite novels (if it can be called a novel) Naipaul's "The Enigma of Arrival" deals with a similar idyll. "Naipaul's 19th book yields its pleasures slowly. Its plot is essentially the passage of ten years, during - [Jesus, I just want to hang out with you.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/11/jesus-i-just-want-to-hang-out-with-you/) - Jesus, I just want to hang out with you. I don’t want to say anything I don’t want to ask anything I just want you. Want to hear what you say, Curl up like a cat against you And just relax with you, In your presence. Jesus. - [Sabbath: The Wonderful Gift of Sanctified Leisure](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/11/sabbath-the-wonderful-gift-of-sanctified-leisure/) - Sundays! Oh the immense relief of a day in which one doesn't have to do anything, achieve anything, write a book, make a fortune, bake a cake! A day to do nothing but rest and be! To remember that incredibly God enjoys us just as we are. The relief of that! Sabbaths, well-observed, (or even - [Donald Hall in "Life Work" on tricking writing out of oneself](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/10/donald-hall-in-life-work-on-tricking-writing-our-of-oneself/) - Donald Hall, how he tricks so much work out of himself. “At any moment, when a poem does not occupy me wholly, when I feel impatient, or discouraged, or tired, I drop it quickly; after a while—one hour, three hours—I feel the poetry-juices drying out. Instantly, I stop; I put the poems away until the following morning. Wakes up at - [Christians like Trees. Who bear fruit as they learn to trust](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/10/christians-like-trees-who-bear-fruit-as-they-learn-to-trust/) - Christians like Trees. Rooted in trust and faith Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. - [Art, a staff to help us bear the ills of life.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/09/art-a-staff-to-help-us-bear-the-ills-of-life/) - I am looking forward to spending the day at the Ashmolean tomorrow. Watching Kenneth Clark's Civilization has rekindled my interest in art. Art is a staff to help man bear the ills of life. It sweetens life. Since man can only concentrate on one thought at a time, it temporarily drives grief from your mind, leading to a - [Exploring The Museum of Oxford, St. Aldate's. A glimpse into Oxford's history](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/03/the-museum-of-oxford/) - The Museum of Oxford Zoe is in Exmoor on a 3.5 day hike with her friends for the Duke of Edinburgh expedition. Serendipitiously, she is v. fond of all the three other girls with her, so they should have a great time, even though the bonds of friendship will, no doubt, be tested to the - [The shepherds are senseless and do not inquire of the LORD Jer. 10:21](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/09/the-shepherds-are-senseless-and-do-not-inquire-of-the-lord-jer-1021/) - The shepherds are senseless and do not inquire of the LORD; so they do not prosper. Jer 10:21 A church with a pastor who does not know how to really pray will soon become a country club! Not just shepherds. No one who does not enquire of the Lord will prosper as he otherwise could - [The Archaic Torso of Apollo by Rainer Maria Rilke](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/08/archaic-torso-of-apollo-by-rainer-maria-rilke-2/) - "Archaic Torso of Apollo" by Rainer Maria Rilke translated by Stephen Mitchell We cannot know his legendary head with eyes like ripening fruit. And yet his torso is still suffused with brilliance from inside, like a lamp, in which his gaze, now turned to low, gleams in all its power. Otherwise the curved breast could - [Vermeer--Artist of Domestic Peace](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/vermeer-artist-of-domestic-peace/) - So one can be so quiet, so quiet, so still and peaceful in the midst of domesticity! That the hands work is no excuse for the mind not to think. You can almost hear the silence. The milkmaid serenely fills her earthenware bowl. “The Young Woman with a Jug” pauses to dream out of the window. The lacemaker - [Google and the Mind of Christ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/the-mind-of-christ-a-greater-computational-ability-than-googles/) - Google Search is a marvel. Fling a question at it, any question, and it whirrs away, producing hundreds of answers–in seconds. I imagine the mind of Christ is like that. Infinitely creative and playful. Delighting in the extraordinary. In miracles. Ask it a question. Let’s say, a mundane one--“How do I adjust the energy - [When Was it Ever About My Deserving? Or Why The Gospel is Good News](https://anitamathias.com/2012/06/14/when-was-it-ever-about-my-deserving-or-why-the-gospel-is-good-news/) - I had a fail on holiday. For perhaps the longest period since I became a Christian, I neglected sitting down with my Bible, or having a dedicated period of prayer. I got annoyed with one, then two, then perhaps even three members of my family. The only reason I didn’t get annoyed with any - [Calvinism is Clever, but Would Jesus Recognise it?](https://anitamathias.com/2012/07/10/calvinism-is-clever-but-is-it-christianity/) - Calvin, by Titian Calvin—Okay, I have summarized Christianity: Total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, perseverance of the saints. Jesus--Excuse me, I am not sure I understand you. Calvin--You know, TULIP, what you taught. Jesus—What I taught? I am sorry, but I don’t understand a word of it. Calvin, scratching head--Stop joking, Jesus. This is - [Does God have Favourites?](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/06/god-favourites/) - When Jesus rose from the dead, whom did he reveal himself to first? Mary Magdalene. Why her? Because she was there.Because she loved him enough to go in search of him, in sheer love, with nothing to gain from the encounter. * * * And why was Isaiah granted his precious vision of the Lord, seated - [The Writing Process](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/the-writing-process/) - As humility comes before honour (Book of Proverbs), the moment of horror and despair in writing, the moment when you feel you know nothing at all, is the precursor to the flood of insight and intuition. That moment of helplessness and dread often precedes light. You begin with confidence. You move to a place of blackness, - [Pray without Ceasing--First Century Multitasking.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/pray-without-ceasing-first-century-multitasking/) - Rejoice always, pray constantly, in everything give thanks (1 Thess 5:17) Pray constantly. Hmm. Paul's first century readers were not professional mystics or monks any more than his 21st century readers are. So, he was obviously talking about prayer interwoven with work, which is actually a lovely form of prayer, a kind of redemption. I - [The Wall of Beautiful Manners](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/the-wall-of-beautiful-manners/) - The Wall of Beautiful Manners I was at at a garden party at Somerville College, Oxford, a week or so ago. I was chatting to a lawyer friend, when a Very Important Person joined us briefly. I have encountered this person at social events over the last 5 years, and she has always had the - [First Drafts like Dough--Get your dough, then shape your cookies.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/first-drafts-like-dough-get-your-dough-then-shape-your-cookies/) - The first draft is like dough--Make it first!! The crucial thing is making it; without the dough, there can be no cookies. Once you have made it, you can shape it into a myriad forms. In my early days as a writer, I would foolishly try to get each paragraph right before going on - [Dunamis: Greek word for the power available to us who believe](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/08/dunamis-greek-word-for-the-power-available-to-us-who-believe/) - The Greek word Dunamis (from which our English word dynamite comes) describes God's power available for us who believe. In its various meanings, it means "Power, ability, strength, a. inherent power, power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature, or which a person or thing exerts and puts forth b. power for performing - [Melville's Bartleby the Scrivener: A beautiful and exquisite conclusion](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/07/melvilles-bartleby-the-scrivener-a-beautiful-and-exquisite-conclusion/) - Isn't this a heart-breaking and exquisite conclusion to Melville's wonderful short story, Bartleby the Scrivener. "The report was this: that Bartleby had been a subordinate clerk in the Dead Letter Office at Washington, from which he had been suddenly removed by a change in the administration. When I think over this rumor, I cannot adequately - [How Can a Christian Blogger keep Fresh and Green Without Burnout?](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/04/can-blogger-keep-fresh-green-without-burnout/) - Image Credit Friends from America mentioned that they no longer attend the Williamsburg, Virginia Church that we’d met them at. The preacher had a knack of cutting to the heart of the matter, of looking at the things Jesus said in a new, startling way. “Oh, why did you leave,” I asked surprised. “Well, after - [Seed the Clouds, Oh Lord. Make it Rain](https://anitamathias.com/2014/06/04/seed-clouds-oh-lord-make-rain/) - Clouds are seeded with silver iodide And dry ice to make it rain. I have no silver iodide, Lord, To move the clouds over my life. I cannot change my heart And make it more loving. I cannot baptise my imagination into creativity. I cannot force story ideas. I cannot write - [The Relationship between Physical and Spiritual Health](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/06/the-relationship-between-physical-and-spiritual-health/) - Physical and spiritual health are interlinked. Not inextricably, because I have known utterly selfish, greedy and stingy people with radiant good health, and living to a ripe old age. I have also known and known of saintly people who are sick. So, it's not a infallible rule. It's just something I have observed in my - [In Which Remembering Your Original Call Proves a North Star When You Have Lost Your Way](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/06/returning-to-roots-and-origins/) - One's original call often contains clues for the way you are to go when you have lost your way. I started writing oh many, many years ago. I was praying about what my next move should be, and was setting my sights entirely too low. I heard God say, "Apply to Oxford University." I was - [Gardens Reflect their Owners](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/06/gardens-reflect-their-owners/) - Gardens reflect their owners. I read that today. Indeed, indeed. And ours is overgrown, in sore need of work, a ruthless hand with the shears, weeding. Too much, too much! Which is far better than too little! - [When a Blogger Parents](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/06/the-blogger-tries-to-parent/) - Zoe wanted to go to see Eclipse with her friends, instead of going to a church youth pool party. She said she doesn't care for pool parties ( a curmudgeon like her parents!) I said, "Neither do I, but Christianity is not a lone sheep experience. Jesus chose to establish this way by living in - [Sheridan Voysey's "Resurrection Year": A Book Review](https://anitamathias.com/2013/06/01/on-broken-hearts-disappointed-dreams-and-resurrection-years/) - On Broken Hearts, Dashed Dreams and Resurrection Years Last June, Sheridan and Merryn Voysey told us their story over dinner—ten years of infertility, IVF, and stalemated adoption (ten years which coincided with the success of Sheridan’s radio programme in Sydney) after which they settled in Oxford, seeking resurrection. I’ve enjoyed reading Sheridan’s new book Resurrection - [Refrigerators, Reckon, and the Connotations of Words in Different Countries](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/03/refrigerators-words-and-accents/) - Okay, we finally broke down and bought a nice new super-sized American refrigerator. When our last one broke down, we replaced it from one from Freecycle, which remarkably lasted almost 4 years. But it was much too small, we couldn't find things, and things were always getting lost, forgotten, crushed, rancid. And so, as people - [Young Woman with a Water Pitcher by Jan Vermeer: A Taste of Mysticism in the Midst of Domesticity](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/03/young-woman-with-a-water-pitcher-by-jan-vermeer/) - I love this painting, partly because I identify with it. It is the way I do housework, as my husband can testify with great exasperation. It depicts a mystical moment, a respite in the middle of duties and domesticity. Wordsworth thus described these mystic moments of illumination which come unbidden "another gift, Of aspect more - [On "Soaking Prayer"](https://anitamathias.com/2012/05/17/soaking-prayer/) - Four years ago, I went to the grandly titled “International Leaders School of Ministry,” led by John Arnott of Catch the Fire (the new name of the Toronto Airport Fellowship, famous for the Toronto Blessing.) They taught us a form of prayer called soaking prayer. Basically: lie down on the floor, often facedown. The position - [Experiencing the Love of God in the Desert](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/02/the-love-of-god-in-the-desert/) - The Desert Who would want to live there? Little food, water, noise, distraction, companionship, colour. Just the vast starry skies, the sun by day, the moon by night. And God. And God. And because no one would choose to live there, God sometimes forcibly herds us there, to reveal himself to us in that atmosphere - [Self-publishing](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/31/self-publishing/) - Self-publishing is the way ahead for a self-critical, perfectionistic writer like me. Write something I am pleased with, the best I can currently achieve, good according to my own taste, get it into print. Worry about an agent and editor after it is in print. Oh the joy and freedom of just trying to reach - [In Praise of Solitude](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/31/solitude/) - I love to be in my our conservatory, reading, writing and thinking--or even trying to-- alone. It’s a lovely, floaty feeling. It’s so peaceful. How I love solitude! (At times!) - [Money and Happiness](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/03/money-and-happiness/) - MONEY MADE BY PLAYING IS SWEET That money can't buy happiness is an old, sage, and utterly true aphorism. Of course, of course! However, there is one sort of money, which at least initially does buy happiness. At least, in both my experience and Roy's. At least initially. And that is (since one does need - [A novice blogger teaches!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/05/a-novice-blogger-teaches/) - A novice blogger teaches! Roy has 1 blog with 4 posts. I have 3, two of which are ranked 20 in culture and 27 in literature respectively http://thegoodbooksblog.blogspot.com/. Yet Roy just told me, "Look at MY blog. Learn from me." Hmm. One thing we both have in common is the sneaking suspicion that, of course, we - [In Which Jesus Gives Us A New Name And A New Character](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/29/jesus-gives-us-new-name-new-character/) - To the one who is victorious, I will also give a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it. Revelation 2:17 And so, we heave up our cross, And follow him, Oh, not spectacularly at all. Dropping it, Meandering off course, Sometimes forgetting we had resolved To - [Lucy Mills on her New Book, "Forgetful Heart," and her Writing and Publishing Journey](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/28/lucy-mills-new-book-forgetful-heart-writing-publishing-journey/) - Lucy Mills has just published her first book, Forgetful Heart: Remembering God in a Distracted World (Darton, Longman and Todd) available on Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com. I ask Lucy a few questions about her book What inspired your book? There was no ‘one thing’ – at least not that I can remember (!) I was aware of - [How the Personal Magnetism of Jesus Reverberates Through the Centuries](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/01/the-passion-of-the-christ/) - One of my sweet memories is John Arnott showing clips from "The Passion of the Christ" at his School of Ministry week, and people sobbing. There was a middle-aged man behind us who was sobbing heart-brokenly, as he gazed at the screen with stricken eyes. Such is the power of Jesus's force of character and - [Philip Melanchton, Sweet-tempered Renaissance Reformer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/01/philip-melanchton-renaissance-reformer/) - Portrait of Philip Melanchthon I was reading today about the sweet Renaissance Reformer, Philip Melanchthon. As much as Luther, he is the primary founder of Lutheranism. Melanchthon made the distinction between law and gospel central. By the "law" he meant the Papacy and rigid rituals controlled by priests; the "gospel" meant an individual directly confronting Christ - [Gustav Vigeland and Vigelanda Sculpture Park, Oslo, Norway](https://anitamathias.com/2010/07/01/gustav-vigeland-and-vigelanda-sculpture-park-oslo-norway/) - One of the most memorable things from our trip to Oslo last year was the Vigelanda Sculpture Park, 212 massive bronze and granite figures, all designed by Gustav Vigeland. What a joy that flow of creativity, and creating them must have been. Humanity in all its many phases and stages! Gustav Vigeland, Monolith - [The 80/20 rule and the principle of diminishing returns.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/30/seo-google-adsense-blogging-8020-rule-and-principle-of-diminishing-returns/) - I love learning new things, and am currently, in a desultory fashion, learning the basics of successful blogging. One of the things which strikes me is the application of the 80/20 rule. The first 10 or 20 percent of things you learn on the subject (whether it be adsense, SEO, gaining readers for your valiant new - [John Wesley--True Christianity Breeds Diligence, Frugality and Riches](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/29/john-wesley-on-christians-and-money/) - John Wesley on Christians and Money. Wherever true Christianity spreads, it must cause diligence and frugality, which, in the natural course of things, must beget riches! And riches naturally beget pride, love of the world, and every temper that is destructive of Christianity. Now, if there be no way to prevent this, Christianity is inconsistent - [Heart Surgery](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/29/heart-surgery/) - I need you to work on my heart, Lord. It's the deepest thing I need. Come and change its molecular structure. Come and change me. - [In which Zoe reveals her true diplomacy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/29/zoe-and-her-feet/) - My mother was always comparing her feet with mine, showing off that her feet were smaller than mine, and talking wistfully of her mother's even smaller feet. The other day, I caught sight of my own feet, which seemed rather small. "Hey Zoe," I said, "Aren't your feet larger than mine? Let's compare." She obligingly - [Pangur Ban--A gorgeous and delightful bit of marginalia](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/29/pangur-ban-a-gorgeous-and-delightful-bit-of-marginalia-2/) - Scribbled by a 9th century Irish monk, bored of his labours on the margin of St. Paul's Epistles. Translated By Robin Flower: I and Pangur Ban my cat, 'Tis a like task we are at: Hunting mice is his delight, Hunting words I sit all night. Better far than praise of men 'Tis to sit - [The Amazing Abilities of Dogs](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/28/the-amazing-thing-about-dogs/) - As we were having dinner in our conservatory yesterday, we noticed that Jake was sitting outside, under the stairs leading to our detached office. The coolest spot! In the winter, he finds the spot on our bedroom carpet above the kitchen lights. The warmest spot. Long observation has convinced me of this: The best way - [Irene and the Oxford High School Fete](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/27/irene-and-the-oxford-high-school-fete/) - Irene and friends ran an eccentric stall at the school fete yesterday that only could have been thought of by Irene-- & it was! Irene is still on a high after all the wild and wacky games she devised for her school fete stall worked. Retrieve your challenge--on a plastic card--from a tub of jelly, whipped cream, - [They do not enquire of the LORD, so they do not prosper (Jeremiah 10:21)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/24/inquire-lord-prosper-jeremiah-1021/) - I have been listening to the Old Testament as I walk around the countryside around Garsington, which is supposed to have more public footpaths than any other village in Oxfordshire (or was it England?). The advantage of listening to huge swathes of Scripture at a time is picking up the big themes. A phrase which - [In Which There is Freedom in Giving Away Power](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/28/power/) - Power= Work. Hassle. Maybe stress. When one gives away power, for instance in the family business we run, in family life, or in something one is organizing, one has less responsibility, less say in things AND/ BUT more leisure. More free time. One of the ironies of life. Power (and money) are behind a lot - [In which Roy reveals his perceptiveness!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/28/a-perceptive-husband/) - I happily unpacked my new box of Jean Renoir Dvds. Roy, suspiciously, "What have you bought now?" Me, "When I was an undergraduate at Somerville, late one night, after studying, I went alone to the Phoenix at Walton Street, and saw Jean Renoir's absolutely beautiful Partie de Campagne. 25 years later, I still remember it." - [Our Judgement "Binds" People to Act in the Scripts Developed by our Low Opinion of Them ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/28/the-binding-power-of-our-judgement/) - I've had a cleaner since early 2008, a cheerful African woman, older than me, bossy, a Christian. However, I always feel she is criticizing my house-keeping (hey, which leaves MUCH to be desired). Increasingly less so, but still critical words and attitudes sadly linger in the memory. Then as she got too old, and too - [Domestic Salvation--Cleaning Ladies and housekeepers](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/28/domestic-salvation-cleaning-ladies-and-housekeepers/) - As my old Zimbabawean cleaner got too old, and too busy for the rigours of cleaning our busy household and keeping it going, she passed on her Kenyan friend Grace to us. After several years of an African cleaner , I have learned how to work with them, and learned their culture a bit, though - [Kenneth Clarke's Civilization: On the Irish Mystics that Preached to Seals](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/27/kenneth-clarke-civilization/) - A totally blessed, lazy day. Church, G and D's ice-cream for lunch, a nap, reading, blogging, a good dinner I didn't cook, and Kenneth Clarke's brilliant "Civilization" on DVD. The Irish hermits preached to seals, he said. Hey, I could be a mystic in Iona, think of God & Nature & write. I watched it - [Birdsong and Tagore](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/27/birdsong-and-tagore/) - I lay in bed this morning listening to an absolutely beautiful and rhapsodic chorus of birdsong. And thought how God is just, how his best gifts are given freely to rich and poor, clever and challenged, talented and not-so-talented alike. I thought of a poem by Tagore ""My desires are many and my cry is - [ When we are not "right," God says "Grow" before giving us our heart's desire](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/27/faith-and-testing/) - Sadly, I am going through a Not-Yet answer for something I have wanted very badly for a long time. I like how Bob Pierce says there are 4 answers to prayer. Franklin Graham, "“When we truly pray, we do not move God to ourselves, but ourselves to God. A small boat nears shore, and a - [On radiance despite our shame](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/26/shame-and-radiance/) - Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. Psalm 34:5 Shame is inevitable. We are people of unclean lips, and we live amidst a people of unclean lips. We are foolish, impulsive, make errors, misjudge, sin. And radiance despite our sins, failures and shortcomings? From looking to Him, to - [What Kind of Blog would Jesus have Written?](https://anitamathias.com/2012/05/19/what-sort-of-blog-would-jesus-have-written/) - If Jesus wrote a blog, what kind of blog would it be? - [God of the Clanging Cymbal  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/21/god-clanging-cymbal-l/) - You are the God of the noisy gongs, and you are the God of the clanging cymbals, of those who speak in the tongues of angels and are impatient, who prophesy and are unkind, who understand mysteries and resent the success of the unworthy, whose faith moves mountains, and are rude and - [In which I read at the Anchor Pub](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/26/book-reading/) - Thank you Susan for sending me this. - [Amy Boucher Pye guest-posts on her writing process and her work in progress](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/20/amy/) - Thank you to Anita for inviting me on the Monday blog tour. Pleasure to be dreaming beneath the spires with you, even if from a sunny garden in North London! So the game is to share what we’re working on, why we write, and how the process works. What I am working on I’m writing - [In Which He Loves Me, Anyway](https://anitamathias.com/2012/05/19/love-song/) - You love me On a fat day You love me on a weight loss day. It’s all the same to you. You love on a bad hair day You love me on a pretty day, You love me just the same. You love me on an inspired day, And on a sluggish sleep-in day. You love - [The 0ne who Comes to Steal, Kill and Destroy vs. the One who Gives Life.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/25/the-one-who-comes-to-steal-kill-and-destroy-vs-the-one-who-gives-life/) - "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." I thought of this verse the other day. The younger sister of a particularly nasty classmate of mine at boarding school tracked me down on Facebook. She never interacted with my - [Carolyn Weber muses on her writing, her writing process, & works in progress (Monday Blog Hop)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/19/carolyn-weber-writing-writing-process-works-progress-monday-blog-hop/) - I have been tagged by Anita Mathias to join the Monday Blog Hop, which involves a tour of UK/US writers. I am delighted and honoured at the invitation, and enjoyed myself in answering the questions she passed along. Often stopping to reflect on one’s work brings a respite of clarity – I should do - [Les Vacances de Monsier Hulot by Jacques Tati.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/25/les-vacances-de-monsier-hulot-by-jacques-tati/) - Our family watched this on Wednesday evening. Irene, 11, who watched it with a big grin, and the frequent observation "It's just like Charlie Chaplin." The rest of us were less enamoured. Zoe and Roy were irritated and bored, and kept saying, "Let's turn it off," "Let's not throw away good time after bad." Zoe--"It's - [An interesting Society of Authors party](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/24/an-interesting-society-of-authors-party/) - A writers' party, or even an Oxford Uni party is as stimulating, refreshing and motivating for me as a complete break. Came back from today's Society of Author's party at Freud's and started writing. An interesting Society of Authors party at Freuds, a beautiful converted church on Walton Street. Talked to Sharon Dogar, villianness of - [Cosmopolitan Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/24/cosmopolitan-oxford/) - One of the things I so enjoy about Oxford is how cosmopolitan it is. Our cleaners are Brazilian, Kenyan and Zimbabawean. I take French conversation classes with a South African doctor and a New Zealander. My small group which meets together to have dinner every two weeks, has Norwegians in it, and had Mexicans. There - [The Stong Taste of Money and Other Tastes](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/24/the-taste-of-money-and-other-tastes-2/) - We had lunch a couple of weeks ago with three other Indian couples. They were saying that it is fatal to let your children work part-time during A levels and University, because once they get "the taste of money" they lose interest in the slow drag and deferred gratification of study. We were amused. We - [Brutal Economics and Hope for those who Behaved Very Badly](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/24/brutal-economics-and-hope-for-those-who-behaved-very-badly/) - The Parable of the Talents Okay, let us not doubt the goodness of the King of the Kingdom. The rewards are, always are, disproportionate! Ten cities given to the one faithful with ten minas. That is the reward of successful stewardship and entrepreneurship However, the consequences of failure are brutal. 'Take the talent from him and - [Love is a COMMAND while peace is a gift](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/24/love-actually/) - Interesting, Jesus gives us peace as a gift. "Peace I give you, my peace I leave with you." He gives us joy as a gift (I have told you these things so that my joy may be in you, and your joy may be full.) The spectacular gifts are just that, gifts. Tongues, healing, prophecy, - [Chasing the Wild Goose of the Holy Spirit: In Praise of Retreats](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/15/chasing-wild-goose-holy-spirit-praise-retreats/) - Is God more present in one place than another?Does it make sense to leave the comfort and familiarity of your daily surroundings to seek God in places—retreat centres or pilgrimage spots-- “where prayer has been made valid,” in T. S. Eliot’s phrase? Where God was rumoured to have shown up in the past, or to - [I Asked You to Guide Me](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/15/asked-guide/) - I asked for guidance. You answered Pillars of cloud by day. Pillars of fire by night. The red sea parted. Staffs turned into snakes. Asses spoke. The ground was dry but the fleece was wet. The sign I asked you for. The fleece was dry, while the earth was drenched. The sign - [Faith grows through testing](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/22/faith-grows-through-testing/) - Everything, whether the purity of gold, the tensile strength of steel, the strength of friendship, the power of blow-out preventers in underwater drilling equipment, is stronger and better for testing. Faith is one of our greatest tools and strengths as we live our life in this world. And so, one should not be sad that - [In which the stars tell us that nothing is impossible with God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/15/my-cup-overflows-the-generosity-of-god-as-abundant-as-the-stars/) - So Abraham, crouched in his tent, thinks of the promises, always those promises: His name would be great, and he would be a blessing, and all nations on earth would be blessed through him. Trouble is--he does not have a single child, he who has been promised descendants more numerous than the grains of sand - [The Most Challenging Passage of Scripture](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/21/the-most-challenging-passage-of-scripture/) - 1 Corinthians 13 4-6 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, - [In which Roy claims that I am basically a dog](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/21/roy-and-i-and-dogs/) - I love dogs. I would pay as much as I had in hand, perhaps even go into debt to have a dog to share my day with me. Roy says that that is because I am basically a dog. Both Jake and I love to sit curled up all day, absorbed in our respective thoughts, - [Image of Irene ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/20/irene/) - My Daughter Irene Mathias - [In Which I Tell You about My Memoir-in-Progress and My Writing Process (Monday Blog Hop)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/12/memoir-progress-writing-process-monday-blog-hop/) - I have been tagged by Claire Musters to write about my work in progress, and my writing process. What I am working on I work on my blog, Dreaming Beneath the Spires, on the principle of the Minimum Effective Dose. What is alive grows, so I post just enough to keep my blog growing, month - [In which Jake the Collie Speaks Without Words](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/19/jake-my-collie-dog/) - We live out in the country, so Jake frequently finds an open conservatory door and takes himself for a walk. He's usually my shadow, so when I noticed him missing yesterday, I went into a bit of a panic, ran to the front door and shouted, "Jake, Jake." "Oh no, he's run away, I hope - [Dear Diary—What I have Done, Learnt, Enjoyed. At El Palmeral Retreat Centre, Costa Blanca, Spain](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/10/dear-diary-done-learnt-enjoyed-el-palmeral-retreat-centre-costa-blanca-spain/) - El Palmeral Retreat Centre Monday 5th May 1 In which Michelle is encouraged by how ordinary I am—“ A year ago my sister, Janae, told me to follow this lady named Anita Mathias on Twitter. My sister is cool, so I did what she said. And I’m glad I did. Anita has been a dependable source of refreshment and peace - [Irene's views on baptism](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/19/irene-and-baptism/) - I really want Irene to be a committed Christian like Zoe. Roy & Zoe keep predicting that Irene is going to surprise us all. Me, "Irene, when you commit your life to Christ, you can be baptised." She, "Oh." Me, "Though you will need to tell the whole church about how you have now decided - [Late have I loved thee,Oh beauty, so ancient and so new--Augustine](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/19/late-have-i-loved-theeoh-beauty-so-ancient-and-so-new-augustine/) - St. Augustine--Confessions. "O Lord, do I love Thee. Thou didst strike on my heart with Thy word and I loved Thee.... But what do I love when I love Thee? Not the beauty of bodies nor the loveliness of seasons, nor the radiance of the light around us, so gladsome to our eyes, nor the - [Parties--and the Writers' Life](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/19/parties-and-the-writers-life-3/) - I've got several parties lined up, among them one today at my old college, Somerville College, Oxford, and a Society of Authors party on Thursday. Part of me is longing to settle down to long hours of serious writing, and wishing I had not committed to go to these winy, distracting events. On the other - [We are made of mud and the breath of God--and so anyone can change, anytime](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/18/human-potential/) - Genesis 2 "The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." That is what human are--mud and the breath of God. It is because of the second component that no one is beyond redemption, that anyone can - [The Father's Song by Matt Redman](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/15/the-fathers-song-by-matt-redman/) - This is one of those songs which have become instant classics. At a retreat recently with John Arnott, he said, "And now Debs will sing the Father's Song over you." It sounded as inevitable as "Amazing Grace." And yet it is not even ten years old!! And written by the amazing Matt Redman. I love - [The generous Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/15/the-generous-jesus/) - One of the things the preacher, Simon Ponsonby, mentioned this Sunday was how Jesus was generous. When he opened his mouth, gifts came forth Now I am a Christian curmudgeon, insofar as such a thing is possible. One of my pet peeves is people applying every positive adjective in the English language to Jesus. He - [The website I am most grateful for today](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/15/the-website-i-am-most-grateful-for-today/) - I am a citizen of the web. It is inextricably linked to my life as I live it now. I found find it hard to go through a day without Wikipedia, Amazon, The New York Times, the Guardian etc. But the website I am most today is--Youtube! Though I have an extensive collection of music, - [ On Extra Baggage, Making Peace with Mistakes and Cutting Emotional Losses](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/06/extra-baggage-making-peace-mistakes-cutting-emotional-losses/) - So I fly on EasyJet to the Costa Blanca on a retreat at El Palmeral --though a normal heritage airline like BA would have cost the same, the timings are more convenient. Though this may change as I grow older, I normally don’t put a high premium on great comfort for short flights. I am - [Dear Journal:  This week’s amusements, embarrassments, adventures and discoveries. (From El Palmeral Retreat Centre, Costa Blanca, Spain)  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/04/dear-journal-weeks-amusements-embarrassments-adventures-discoveries-el-palmeral-retreat-centre-costa-blanca-spain/) - At El Palmeral Retreat Centre, Costa Blanca, Spain, we were invited to help ourselves to fruit from this tree, a cross between an apricot and kiwi fruit (in taste) Labyrinth, El Palmeral Retreat Centre, Costa Blanca, Spain Wednesday 30th April 1 Micha Boyett asks, "Do we really have something worthwhile to say every day?" Hmm. I believe God does - [The Full Measure of Joy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/14/the-full-measure-of-joy/) - "I want to say these things that they may have the full measure of my joy in them." John 17:13. Joy. Experiencing it: That is the way to live. Sometimes, all we need to do to experience joy is to slow down, remember the Father, ask for a filling of the Spirit, and pray. I am - [In which I am Learning to Master Anger](https://anitamathias.com/2013/05/03/in-which-i-am-learning-to-master-anger/) - (Reuters/Mike Stone) 14 years ago, I was furious with my husband Roy for some just-discovered crime or misdemeanour, and since he was teaching at the moment (in those pre-mobile phone days), and I couldn’t call him, I called our pastor. (No, I am not joking!) Had Roy been at the end of a phone, it - [Don't worry, just pray](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/14/dont-worry-just-pray/) - I am a writer. I am also an entrepreneur. I really enjoy starting small businesses. And I feel towards my newest one as a mother feel towards her newest baby--full of protectiveness and concern. And worry. Being slightly obsessive, I found myself thinking and worrying about my blog which I hope to turn into a - [An Oxford Conversation](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/14/an-oxford-conversation/) - I have dinner every second week with a diverse and fun group of people. One of them is Andrew, who read Classics at Oxford, and has edited the letter P for the Oxford English Dictionary. He is now working on proof reading Oxford's latest edition of Liddell and Scott's Greek Lexicon. "What are you working - [Barrow Boys and Aunt Sally: Life in England](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/14/barrow-boys-and-aunt-sally-life-in-england/) - Because the English have written so much about themselves, like a nation of compulsive memoirists or bloggers, everyone, everywhere feels they "know" them. I certainly do. Feel I know them I mean. But come one, I've only lived here for 13 years (with 17 years in the US in the middle of them), so it should - [Richard Rodriguez, Hunger of Memory--a classic description of writers' block.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/14/richard-rodriguez-hunger-of-memory-a-classic-description-of-writers-block/) - Writer's block develops through perfectionism, through not letting go of a piece of work when it is very good, rather than perfect, through viewing your work through the eyes of a imaginary critic. Rodriguez describes the sterility as he tried to finish his Ph.D. He wrote “sentences that were overly cautious, timid, strained, brittle - [Gothic cathedrals and Medieval Stained Glass: Radiant Windows: Sand transformed by Fire. ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/12/gothic-cathedrals/) - Interior of the Cathedral at Reims I researched medieval cathedrals today. They were constructed over generations through a collaborative effort of entire towns.In the 12th Century, in Chartres, women from all social classes carried construction materials and food for the Cathedral builders, and powerful men, proud of their birth and of their wealth, harnessed - [The Secret Spiritual Power of Helplessness: A Lesson from the Life of Gideon](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/30/gideon-and-the-power-of-helplessness/) - As part of my ongoing battle for physical fitness, I have been listening to a dramatized reading of the Bible as I walk, instead of reading the Bible while seated. There are gains and losses. One gain: I am certainly going to listen to the entire Bible this year. Another: I am gripped by the - [Praying in Churches, Mosques, Temples and Synagogues](https://anitamathias.com/2014/05/02/praying-churches-mosques-temples-synagogues/) - The Blue Mosque, Istanbul As a curious anthropologist, a photographer, and a discreet and respectful observer, I love visiting mosques, temples, synagogues, and churches, and often use the quietness and sacred space to pray. (And, as a schoolgirl, have not been above accepting the delicious sweets offered by the priests in Hindu temples and - [Dear Diary: What I've Thought, Read, Done, and Been Grateful for This Week](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/30/thankful-week/) - Grateful for Monday 1 Merry, my labradoodle's wagging tail and sweet nature. 2 Jake, my 11 year old Border Collie, tolerating Merry. 3 Blog stats picking up steadily. 4 Seeing a heron on my walk. 5 Three mile walk/run from Sandford on Thames to Iffley Lock and back, barely tired 7 Green and Black Butterscotch chocolate 8 My - [In Which Jesus Prays for Protection so All Christians May Be One](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/10/protection/) - Father, protect them by the power of your name, That they may be one As we are one. John 17:11 Protection is something I increasingly feel the need of. Partly it is because of living in the deepest country, where I do need the protection of angels in chariots of fire around our property. Partly - [Resolving to live more slowly!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/10/resolving-to-live-more-slowly/) - Neither Roy nor I, I in particular, do well with busyness. I simply wilt and find myself quite unable to go on if I have too many uncongenial things to do. So we have taken a dramatic and drastic decision to next month dramatically and drastically cut Roy's work hours. I.e., he is going to - [Fiddler on the Roof](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/10/fiddler-on-the-roof/) - It's fun to watch childhood favourites as an adult. I found Fiddler on the Roof unbearably painful as a teen especially the story of Motel, the earnest well-meaning tailor, who saves all his life for a sewing machine, only to--like the rest of the town's Jewish community--have his dreams, hopes, ambitions, and material possessions swept - [When, After a Long Drought, Words Come like a Sudden Flood: Lessons from Blake, Milton, Rilke, and Julia Ward Howe](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/27/words-comes-like-sudden-flood-lessons-blake-milton-rilke-julia-ward-howe/) - William Blake, Milton I love The Battle Hymn of the Republic by Julia Ward Howe. The rhythm, the evocative lyrics, the allusions, the beautiful language create a loveliness greater than the sum of its parts. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord: He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath - [The longing to travel](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/27/travel/) - I love to travel, and I love to travel to strange mysterious countries, with pristine, old misty towering forests; semi-abandoned wayside stone churches; remote, lonely. What country am I thinking of, Switzerland, Scotland, or somewhere I have never travelled? Albania? Slovakia? Slovenia? Russia? Denmark? Macedonia? Or the undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveller returns? The - ["Prophetic Decrees"](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/27/prophetic-decrees/) - I went to a conference in Oxford today taught by Patricia Bootsma and encountered the idea of Prophetic Decrees. She writes about this in her book, Convergence: Heaven’s Destiny Becoming Your Reality. She and her husband had received many prophecies about speaking, prophesying, pastoring, going to the nations, but he remained a bank manager in a tiny Canadian - ["What I do is me; For that I came": The Song of the Creative](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/08/what-i-do-is-me-for-that-i-came-2/) - What I do is me; For that I came. The wandering liquid notes Of cuckoo and mourning dove Float through our garden High and full of joy. They sing because they can, They sing because they must. On Milford Sound, I saw dolphins Leap through the fjord Like lambs at dusk in the - [Simon Ponsonby and His Butcher Sermon](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/09/simon-ponsonby-and-his-butcher-sermon/) - " Gustav Caillebotte Simon Ponsonby's Butcher Sermon Sunday 6th June. Here was the text, James 3. 1Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he - [On Learning Focus From My Mistakes](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/09/jesus-learned-obedience-from-what-he-suffered/) - Jesus learned obedience from what he suffered So it says in the Book of Hebrews. Most of us, learn from our mistakes. I wish there were a better way of learning. I get several requests these days from people I don't know, hardly know, and sometimes hardly knew 30 years ago--requests to pick my brain, - [India has come of age--Mukesh Ambani, India's richest man, exemplifies this](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/16/india-has-come-of-age-mukesh-ambani-indias-richest-man-exemplifies-this/) - When my parents visited the family of our Belgian parish priest in Belgium were first married, in the mid-fifties. The host's kids had to wash up after dinner. As they did so grumbling, they said, "I wish we were Indians. We could eat with our hands on leaves, and then throw it away." My parents smiled. - [Narendra Modi, Possible Indian Prime Minister? A Disaster for India's Religious Minorities  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/22/narendra-modi-possible-indian-prime-minister-premier-hostile-religious-minorities/) - Narendra Modi’s supporters, Image: The Guardian. He wakes at 5 a.m. and does yoga for ninety minutes. He is vegetarian. He lives a simple, almost ascetic life. He has vowed celibacy to concentrate his energies on making India great. In a country in which corruption is endemic in every area of life, Narendra Modi is - [How to Evade a Trap. A Short Guide to Wisdom  ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/21/evade-trap-short-guide-wisdom/) - Jesus was a truly extraordinary human being. I keep learning from him as I read through the Gospel of Matthew. Sometimes I am put on the spot, and asked a question, with hostile intent, by people who do not wish me well, and who, I sense, will use my words against me--people who are wolves - [C. S. Lewis on Whether the Christian Life if Hard or Easy. (I love this!) ](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/19/is-the-christian-life-hard-or-easy/) - I love this passage in Mere Christianity in which Lewis talks about whether the Christian life is hard or easy. It's both, Lewis says. It's hard as death in the beginning, and then as his life begins to worth within us and transform us, it is relatively easy, because he does the work of transforming - [Images of Istanbul](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/19/images-of-istanbul/) - (A guest post from my husband, Roy) A roundup of a few shorter visits -- The Topkapi Palace ( that was suddenly closed as we arrived because of a sudden dust storm, that also closed souvenir sellers), the Grand Bazaar, Church of SS Sergius and Bacchus (now a Mosque, and called Small Haghia Sophia), the - [Amo Ergo Sum](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/11/amo-ergo-sum-3/) - Amo Ergo Sum Because I love The sun pours out its rays of living gold Pours out its gold and silver on the sea. Because I love The earth upon her astral spindle winds Her ecstasy-producing dance. Because I love Clouds travel on the winds through wide skies, Skies wide and beautiful, blue and deep. - [Listening to your body and emotions as you discern wisdom--and God's will](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/14/listening-to-your-body-and-emotions-as-you-discern-wisdom-and-gods-will/) - Anne Lamott in Travelling Mercies recounts how, pregnant out of wedlock, she goes to her priest and asks if she should have yet another abortion. He says, “get quiet for a moment and then think about having an abortion; if you feel a deep and secret sense of relief, pay attention to that. But if - [A Dream-Crusher or Dream-Nurturer?](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/25/a-dream-crusher-or-dream-nurturer/) - Image Credit I used to write letters home in rhyming verse when I - [Meandering by Christ Church College and the River Cherwell](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/08/meandering-by-christ-church-college-and-the-river-cherwell/) - Roy and I went on a long walk yesterday by the Cherwell river and Christ Church meadows. Fantastic centuries-old massive, gnarled, contorted sycamore, beech, oak, maple, linden and chestnut trees. Cool to think of the Wesleys & Whitfield, students at Christ Church and Pembroke respectively doing the same walk. The Botanical Garden is in full - [Zoe and Irene, sweet sisters](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/08/zoe-and-irene-sweet-sisters-2/) - Overheard at our house. Irene, 11, to Zoe, 15. "I'm really worried." Zoe, sounding very concerned. "Why, what's happened?" Irene, "I never thought this day would come." Zoe, now anxious, "What's happened, Irene?" Irene, "Zoe, I am picking up all your habits. I am becoming YOU!" - [Today's adventures in Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/08/todays-adventures-in-prayer/) - Prayer truly is the most exciting thing there is. The most exciting thing! Okay, I volunteered to host a fund-raiser--a garden party--without praying it through thoroughly. Thinking it through, yes, but not praying it through. (A goal of mine is that thinking and praying should be the same thing, that I should filter thoughts through - [Grieve No More For All That’s Broken](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/31/grieve-thats-broken/) - Wheat must be crushed to become bread And bread broken to be eaten. The chrysalis crumble for the butterfly, The egg splinter for the chicken. And sheets of coloured glass Must be shattered To become stained glass Through which the love of God-- In rainbowed light-- Shines. * * * And I consider… - [The Valley of Humiliation--John Bunyan](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/07/the-valley-of-humiliation-john-bunyan/) - Here's a brilliant passage of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress. “But we will come again to this Valley of Humiliation. It is the best and most fruitful piece of ground in all these parts. It is fat ground, and consisteth much in meadows; and if a man was to come here in the summer-time as we - [ The One who Has no Agenda but to Love is Blessed](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/07/agape/) - Here's something I would love, love, love to get the hang of. The one who walks in love, who has no agenda but to love, is, in a sense, invulnerable. She has nothing to lose. She just loves and blesses, whatever happens. Change my heart, oh God!! "Anyone who claims to be in the light - [As Kingfishers Flash Fire--Gerard Manley Hopkins](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/07/as-kingfishers-flash-fire-gerard-manley-hopkins-2/) - As Kingfishers Flash Fire--Gerard Manley Hopkins A kingfisher. As kingfishers catch fire, dragonflies dráw fláme; As tumbled over rim in roundy wells Stones ring; like each tucked string tells, each hung bell’s Bow swung finds tongue to fling out broad its name; Each mortal thing does one thing and the same: Deals out that being - [How do you know if you should become a writer: Rainer Maria Rilke](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/07/do-you-have-to-become-a-writer-rainer-maria-rilke/) - In this famous passage, German poet, Rainer Maria Rilke, asks a young poet whether he has to write. “You ask whether your verses are any good. You ask me. You have asked others before this. You send them to magazines. You compare them with other poems, and you are upset when certain editors reject your - [Allegies and Hayfever](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/07/allegies-and-hayfever/) - Sadly, whatever it is I am allergic to, hits me quite late in the season. So every year, I hope this is going to be the year in which my immune system does not go under under the assaults of pollen, but late in the season, I am disappointed. My allergies (to pollen, my only - [“To have another language is to possess a second soul” Emperor Charlemagne](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/06/to-have-another-language-is-to-possess-a-second-soul-emperor-charlemagne/) - “To have another language is to possess a second soul” Emperor Charlemagne. It is indeed true. It is amazing, how one's personality, gesticulations, facial expressions, and ways of expressing oneself change when one speaks a new language. I learnt 2 before I was 10--English and Hindi; 2 in my teens--Sanskrit and Bengali 2 in my - [Lesotho and the Justice of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/06/lesotho-and-the-justice-of-god/) - "Lesotho, is the world's highest country – no part of it lies below 1,400m above sea level – and one of its most beautiful. Its mountains and valleys are peppered with horsemen wearing conical straw hats and traditional blankets fastened with giant safety pins. Rivers cross roads, rather than the other way round. But the - [So if I Stand Let Me Stand on the Promise, RICH MULLINS](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/06/so-if-i-stand-let-me-stand-on-the-promise-rich-mullins/) - Here's one of my very favourite Christian songs. I have listened to it, oh hundreds of times https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_K93ebKnmhs&feature=related "If I Stand" by Rich Mullins There's more that rises in the morning than the sun And more that shines in the night than just the moon There's more than just this fire here that keeps me - [My "wun"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/05/my-wun/) - Jake, beloved collie, goes crazy, once procrastinating me starts saying, "I really must walk." So, grandiloquently & euphemistically, I now call it a run (hey, I struggle to jog!). He's learnt "run." So Roy patronizingly calls it my "wun." My "wun" today was through the meadows round our home, covered with buttercups with happy cows. - [Is Time More Valuable Than Money?](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/05/time-versus-money-a-daily-choice/) - It's really one of the biggies, isn't it, and a choice which determines our days, and how they are spent. For instance, Roy's car needed fixing last week. He wanted me to follow him to the garage in my car, and then drive him back. I hate driving, especially down Cowley Road. I thought about - [A Symphony of Colour: The Glorious Mosaics of San Vitale, Ravenna](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/08/a-symphony-of-colour-the-glorious-mosaics-of-san-vitale-ravenna/) - A beardless Christ in the apse of San Vitale We have been in Ravenna, Italy this week. Dante who died in Ravenna describes it as a"a symphony of colour." Yeats hails the Byzantine mosaics here as "monuments of undying intellect." Ravenna is famous for its Byzantine mosaics, constructed over the the third and 6th century - [When God Validates a Man or Ministry--and He Can, He Does!](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/10/accredited-by-god/) - Edward Knippers So Good Friday, the travesty of justice, ends with the greatest act of validation I know of, the resurrection. Jesus, unjustly slandered and accused, is raised from the dead by God. “Jesus of - [The best way to deal with a cold](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/05/the-best-way-to-deal-with-a-cold/) - I stayed up working too late in our conservatory last night--until 1.30 (crazy!!, writing, blogging, thinking, reading French). It was 32 during the day, then precipitiously dropped. I got a terrible cold sitting in the suddenly chilly room working, and went to bed in a cloud and flurry of sneezes. Took Night Nurse and sudafed. - [In which God loves parties](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/05/god-loves-parties/) - We are having a big children's party next Saturday, and a family garden party on the 19th June. I always have a moment of panic before a party. What if....everyone forgets; no one comes; our cooking fails, there's not enough food. What if it's a garden party and it rains? But our parties generally work. - [Elijah: The training of a prophet](https://anitamathias.com/2012/02/19/elijah-the-training-of-a-prophet/) - Elijah Now Elijah the Tishbite, said to Ahab, "As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word." 1 Kings 17 The Lord exalts - [John Gardner in" The Art of Fiction" on one's innate ability to solve technical problems](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/04/john-gardner-in-the-art-of-fiction-on-ones-innate-ability-to-solve-technical-problems/) - Life by the inch is a cinch. Life by the yard is hard. John Gardner says, in The Art of Fiction that almost anyone, even a novice writer, can solve a small literary problem, for instance in presenting a character or scene. It's the entire novel which can daunt. So he advises novices to write their stories - [Introducing My First Children's Book, "Francesco, Artist of Florence: The Man Who Gave Too Much"](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/09/introducing-first-childrens-book-francesco-artist-florence-man-gave-much/) - Francesco, Artist of Florence:The Man Who Gave Too Much The child gazes at the jade parrot on my jewellery box, her eyes bright and fascinated. I come to look too. The perky parrot grasps a cherry. He is surrounded by carnations, cosmos and lupins. I love that little pietre dure jewellery box which I inlaid - [Lovely Day, i'nit?](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/03/lovely-day-innit/) - Whereas other cultures greet each other with the time of day, the amusing English greet each other with a comment on the State of the Day. It is a beautiful day today in Garsington, Oxfordshire--sunny, blue skies, but not hot, and, as I walked Jake, and tried bravely to jog, everyone, without fail, greeted me - [In which public policy can teach people to recycle](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/03/recycling-infinite-potential/) - I have long been a fan of Flylady, who recommends one does not get caught up in the guilt of recycling until one has one's act together, i.e. is flying. Well, the South Oxfordshire County Council was having none of this and limited us to one wheelie bin of trash every TWO weeks. So the non-recycling - [How Prayer and the Holy Spirit can Recreate us](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/03/re-creation/) - Amazing! I was getting rather tired & losing focus & running on empty by the last week of May. We attended a wonderful retreat lead by John Arnott of the Toronto Airport Fellowship for a whole week, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The meditation, prayer, and receiving prayer, esp. for the Holy Spirit, has left - [Jake, my Collie Dog](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/03/jake-my-collie-dog-2/) - Jake plunged me into despair by running away, and was away for hours. He came back lame, limping, with the pads of his feet worn off. Where did he go? Guilt. For not exercising our lovely working dog, a Collie, enough. I adore Jake, and just don't know how I would cope with not having - [How Nature Resets our Minds and Bodies](https://anitamathias.com/2013/04/05/how-nature-resets-our-minds-and-bodies/) - The bay where St. Paul was shipwrecked, Malta. From our Christmas holiday there. I am in Corfu on holiday, mainly walking on beaches and forests, and totally resetting my mind, body and most of all, spirit!! I have excerpted two articles I read recently on the healing, restorative powers of nature on both brain and - [William Stafford "There is no such thing as writer's block for writers whose standards are low enough."](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/03/william-stafford-there-is-no-such-thing-as-writers-block-for-writers-whose-standards-are-low-enough/) - American poet William Stafford offers this advice: "There is no such thing as writer's block for writers whose standards are low enough." Stafford says that a writer has to be willing to write the bad poems. By writing them and getting them out of the way, he clears the way for the good poems. Momentum, keep the flow, write - [ In which we are Protected by the Father's Roar](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/02/crowned-with-glory-and-honour/) - An image which stuck out from the John Arnott conference was little Simba, trying out his lion roar, to the amusement of the hyenas. Then, suddenly, his father appears behind him and roars. The hyenas scatter. We are princesses in God's kingdom, crowned with glory and honour. Behind us is Jesus, King of Kings and - [Traits of a good preacher: Self-examination, and repentance](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/02/some-ingredients-of-a-good-preacher-self-examination-and-repentance/) - We sat through one of the very worst sermons in 5.5 years last Sunday evening. Fortunately, it was not by the regular clergy, though I was a bit cross that with 3 preaching pastors, not to mention several others on staff, none of the full-time clergy could have stepped up to the plate. The person - [Rhododendron, Clematis and other garden news](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/02/rhododendron-clematis-and-other-garden-news/) - An images of established rhododendron from the internet. The rhododendron ponticum bush we bought last year is thriving. Beautiful deep purple flowers. Oddly for a plant of such beauty, it is considered an invasive pest in Britain, secreting toxin around its base so that no other plants can root there, hardier than native plants, toxic to grazers, - [Helen Keller on Perseverance](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/02/helen-keller-on-perseverance/) - Be of good cheer. Do not think of to-day's failures, but of the success that may come to-morrow. You have set yourselves a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere, and you will find a joy in overcoming obstacles--a delight in climbing rugged paths, which you would perhaps never know if you did - [ He Makes the Failures of Friday Beautiful in His Time ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/04/03/makes-failures-friday-beautiful-time/) - Ravaged by grief, she saw you standing right there, but did not recognize you. She was living in Friday, That traumatic Friday. But it’s Sunday now, And there you stand, In front of Mary. It’s a new day, The only day that really counts. Today. * * * Lord Jesus, I give - [How to return to writing after a break](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/01/blogging-and-slowing-down-and-observing/) - Journaling, slowing down, observing, and describing what you observe is one way to slow down and return to writing after a period of extroversion. Get words flowing within you once again. - [Virginia Woolf on writing](https://anitamathias.com/2010/06/01/virginia-woolf-on-writing/) - To write in the fewest possible words, as clearly as possible, exactly what one meant, that was his only lesson in the art of writing--Virginia Woolf on her father Leslie Stephen. Who said, "Learning to write is learning to think?" I would realize that time and again in my apprenticeship. You delete a tangled sentence, - [Sonship and the Fatherhood of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/31/sonship-and-the-fatherhood-of-god/) - The John Arnott conference last week spent a lot of time on the Fatherhood of God, something I believe cognitively rather more than emotionally. Yet, I know that it has an absolutely transformative effect on individuals who understand and believe it. They asked us to imagine a really beautiful baby in the arms of a - [Ravenna, Bologna, Verona](https://anitamathias.com/2011/04/03/ravenna-bologna-verona/) - Ravenna Mosaics, Ravenna Boris Johnson, in one of his sensible pronouncements, said it is cheaper to fly to Italy than to fill up your car with petrol. So indeed it is. We will be flying to Ravenna, Bologna and Verona next week. House and pet sitter all lined up, and he will be painting the - [Sanctioned Waste: The Sabbath. Love and Waste](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/31/sanctioned-waste-the-sabbath-love-and-waste/) - Sanctioned Waste: The Sabbath. Love and Waste Exodus 20:8-11. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, - [Sundays and the ideal work week](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/30/sundays-and-the-ideal-work-week/) - Isn't it amazing to have a whole day, one day out of 7 devoted to leisure? This is unique in the Judeo-Christian tradition, in fact among all "people of the book." The Roman merchants used to make fun of Jewish traders, who rested and so did not compete in the marketplace for one day out - ["If God doesn’t tell you to do anything, then why are you doing things? Why not just sit at his feet?” (Roy Godwin "Grace Outpouring")](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/02/thought-for-the-day-from-roy-godwins-grace-outpouring/) - Fflad-y-Brenin, the splendid retreat centre founded by Roy Godwin “The key is searching for God, learning to listen for his voice, burrowing into his heart, listening to what he says, and then doing it, however simple or complex it might be. If He says it, do it. If He doesn’t tell you to do anything, - [Writing and Blogging](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/28/writing-and-blogging-2/) - I was having lunch with my friend Liz a couple of weeks ago, and she asked me, as one does, what I was writing. I am on a second draft of my memoir, I said; I am writing poetry, I am writing on the Gospel of John, and I am blogging. "Blogging?" she said. "Oh - [Do not Grieve for All that’s Broken](https://anitamathias.com/2012/03/31/do-not-grieve-for-all-thats-broken/) - Bread must be broken to be eaten. The grain of wheat split to live The chrysalis crumble for the butterfly, The egg splinter for the chicken The snake moult to grow. And sheets of coloured glass Must be shattered To be refashioned Into stained glass Through which-- In shafts of radiance Like the love of - [Prophetic activation and fire tunnels with John Arnott of Catch the Fire](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/27/todays-adventures-prophetic-activation-and-fire-tunnels-with-john-arnott/) - My daughter Irene,11, was very excited when I told her I went through a two hour session on prophetic activation and fire tunnels today. It sounded like something out of Harry Potter or science fiction. It is, in fact, an invention/practice from the famous/notorious Toronto Airport Fellowship (now Catch the Fire), home of the Toronto - [Les Quatre Cents Coups by Francois Truffaut](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/27/les-quatre-cents-coups-by-francois-truffaut/) - A French idiom for raising hell. An exquisite film by Francois Truffaut. Jean-Pierre Leaud perfectly renders Antoine Doinel, the eternal scapegoat, caught in a heart-rending vicious circle in which the smallest offences call down disproportionate punishments, dealing with which catches Doinel in an eternal cycle of petty offence--unjust punishment--anger--offence. I think of "Kes," very similar - [We dream, but we must plan and focus, because we are not God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/26/focusing/) - "The heart of focusing is humility. In other words, we are limited people with limited resources, so what do we do with what God has given us? We dream big, but plan realistically. We dream because Scripture says, “nothing is impossible with God”, but we plan carefully because we are not God." Paul Miller - [Francois Truffaut and the romance of self-education](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/26/francois-truffaut-and-the-romance-of-self-education/) - I was reading about Francois Truffaut's determined attempt to self-educate himself after being failed by the French education system. He watch THREE movies a day (often sneaking in for free) and read three books a week. Which is as good as any education, though learning from others does gives you a framework to organize and - [The Secret of Enduring Creativity](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/26/the-secret-of-enduring-creativity/) - The Secret of Enduring Creativity. is essentially learning to hear God's voice, to tune into God. There were fish everywhere. When Peter heard Christ tell him where to cast his nets, he caught 153. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would - [Dorothy Sayers, Gaudy Night. A description of breaking out of writer's block](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/25/dorothy-sayers-gaudy-night-a-description-of-breaking-out-of-writers-block/) - Harriet Vane in the silence of Oxford. Something comes “back to her that had lain dumb and dead ever since the old, innocent undergraduate days. The singing voice, stifled long ago by the presence of the struggle for existence…began to stammer a few uncertain notes. Great golden phrases, like the great carp from the depths - [Worship](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/25/worship/) - Worship is one of the best things in life--turning your eyes upon Jesus, looking full in his wonderful face. Seeing the Lord high and lifted up, with the train of his robe filling the temple with glory. Forgetting yourself in focusing on him. - [Star-breather. God breathes Stars. Psalm 33:7](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/24/star-breather-god-breathes-stars-psalm-337/) - Star breather. God breathes stars. "By the word of the LORD were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth." NIV Psalm 33:6. "The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed, and all the stars were born." New Living Translation. Fabulous! - [Can people shift on the Extroversion/ Introversion scale](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/24/extroversion-and-introversion/) - I wonder if people's personalities change through the decades. I was definitely an extrovert when I was younger, but after two decades of marriage to an introvert find I am changing. Though I enjoy people, getting to know people, talking to people, I also find a lot of energy, and happiness, even bliss from being - [Characterization which somehow gets the essence of a person.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/24/characterization-which-somehow-gets-the-essence-of-a-person/) - Look at this passage from A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving "There was undeniably a feline quality to my mother--never in the sly or stealthy sense of the word, but in the word’s other catlike qualities:a clean, sleek, self-possessed, strokable quality. In quite a different way from Owen Meany, my mother looked touchable; - [A new favourite form of relaxation](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/24/a-new-favourite-form-of-relaxation/) - I am generally someone who finds doing something relaxing, and "relaxing" by doing nothing stressful. However, as the busyness of my life increases in lock-step with my age, I keep discovering new ways to thoroughly relax. Here's one: Come in from a busy day, have a nap while thinking myself to sleep, wake up thoroughly - [A Day in Cambodian Villages with Tearfund: Thoughts on Poverty, Shalom and Self-Sufficiency](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/20/day-cambodian-villages-tearfund-thoughts-poverty-shalom-self-sufficiency/) - The spiritual value which runs though Scripture is not prosperity (though, in the Old Testament, those blessed by God are generally prosperous). It is shalom. Strong’s Concordance translates it as “wholeness, health, peace, welfare, safety, soundness, tranquility, prosperity, perfectness, fullness, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord.” What a lovely concept. It is not - [Spiritual lessons from gardening](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/23/spiritual-lessons-from-gardening-2/) - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. NIV So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. NLT Galatians 6:9 - [Spring and the English](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/23/spring-and-the-english/) - I enjoyed my intensive French course this weekend. We were asked what our favourite season was. Interestingly, all the English people (and I) chose spring. All the foreigners (from Columbia, Spain, Japan, South Africa) chose summer. The English grumble as much about summer as about winter. Extremes don't suit them. Spring is a very English, very Anglican season - [“Prosperity Theology” as a Hook for the Gospel: Hanging out with Christians in Cambodia ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/26/prosperity-theology-hook-gospel-hanging-christians-cambodia/) - Rick Warren, of the wildly successful Saddleback Church, was influenced by Donald McGavran, maverick church planter, who suggested church planters use the kind of music people already listened to. The familiar music provides a hook for the Gospel. Some of the fastest-growing churches today use music as a hook; I think of the - [On Pol Pot, Cambodia's Killing Fields, and the Power of an Idea to Transform--or Destroy. (In Cambodia with Tearfund)](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/21/pol-pot-cambodias-killing-fields-power-idea-transform-destroy-cambodia-tearfund/) - Stupa in the Killing Fields, commemorating the victims of the Khymer Rouge We wandered around the “Killing Fields” today, where thousands of the 3 million Cambodians who perished (out of a population of 8 million) were clubbed, hacked, or axed to death by the minions of Pol Pot, leader of the murderous Khmer Rouge Pol - [Growth Happens Outside the Comfort Zone. (And hello from Pnomh-Penh, Cambodia](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/18/growth-happens-outside-comfort-zone-hello-pnomh-penh-cambodia/) - One of my favourite Oxford walks is by the Thames from Iffley Lock to Folly Bridge. As it gets warmer, the river is crowded with school and college rowers. And, on the banks, an obnoxious man with a bullhorn cycles beside the perspiring rowers, shouting tips on posture and alignment and synchronization. Our family loves - [Loveliest of Trees, the Cherry Now, A.E. Housman](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/24/loveliest-of-trees-the-cherry-now-a-e-housman/) - Loveliest of trees, the cherry now, Is hung with bloom along the bough, And stands above the woodland ride Wearing white for Eastertide. Now, of my threescore years and ten, Twenty will not come again, And take from seventy springs a score, It only leaves me fifty more. And since to look at things in - [William Carey--"I can plod. To this I owe everything.” ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/22/william-carey-proceeding-single-mindedly-in-the-direction-of-his-dreams-2/) - William Carey is often attributed the title ‘Father of Modern Missions’. He was born into a desperately poor family, and consequently obtained a poor education. He was apprenticed as shoemaker, but simply did not make the grade. He tried his hand at starting and running a school, but it functioned badly. His marriage was - [When your cup overflows!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/22/and-my-cup-overflows/) - A table thou hast set for me In the presence of my foes My head thou dost with oil anoint And my cup overflows. Sometimes, a lot of things one has wanted for a long time come together to you at once. God has four answers to prayer, No, slow, grow, and GO. Prayers have - [The glories of a complex sentence, Janet Frame, To the Is-land](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/22/the-glories-of-a-complex-sentence-janet-frame-to-the-is-land/) - I LOVE this sentence from Janet Frame, so rich in ideas and experience. There are 23 clauses, 23 little details in this single sentence. Of course, no one is going to read it carefully, take in all she is telling us, and I suspect she was writing for herself, saving her precious memories, but yes, - [Thomas Merton on Work from "Seeds of Contemplation"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/22/thomas-merton-on-work-from-seeds-of-contemplation/) - From Thomas Merton’s Seeds of Contemplation: The requirements of a work to be done can be understood as the will of God. If I am supposed to hoe a garden or make a table, then I will be obeying God if I am true to the task I am performing. To do the work carefully and - [Writing and Prayer ( Originally Published in the Christian Century, 2000)](https://anitamathias.com/2012/08/20/writing-and-prayer/) - A few words Jesus wrote Writing and Prayer. We read about them, write about them, talk about them, agonize about them, resolve to do them, wish we’d done them, more than we actually do them. In this they resemble other pursuits that people overestimate the intensity, frequency, and duration of--reading, and sex. Both - [Mid life Transformations. By renewal of the mind.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/21/mid-life-transformations-by-renewal-of-the-mind/) - I am doing an intensive French conversational weekend tomorrow and on Sunday, 9-4 each day. And doing a 9-6 conference at church with Roy next week, Monday to Friday, lead by John and Carol Arnott of the Toronto Airport Fellowship (Toronto Blessing). I am really, really looking forward to both, esp. the latter, but will - [The bush of Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/21/the-bush-of-garsington/) - I had a sweet Kenyan lady come & catch me up with housework & house chores today. She worked for 5 hours, left everything gleaming, & adamantly refused a lift to Oxford from our village, insisting she'd walk. I pointed out a lovely quiet country path with flowering hedges outside our house, a short cut. - ["More Beautiful than the Honey Locust Tree Are the Words of the Lord" by Mary Oliver](https://anitamathias.com/2013/10/02/beautiful-honey-locust-tree-words-lord-mary-oliver/) - 1 In the household of God, I have stumbled in recitation, and in my mind I have wandered. I have interrupted worship with discussion. Once I extinguished the Gospel candle after all the others. But never held the cup to my mouth lagging in gratitude. 2. The Lord forgives many things, so I have heard.. - [A sure comfort in times of depression, stress, or confusion: "Do the Next Thing," ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/20/do-the-next-thing-elisabeth-elliot/) - From an old English parsonage, down by the sea There came in the twilight a message to me; Its quaint Saxon legend, deeply engraven, Hath, as it seems to me, teaching from Heaven. And on through the hours the quiet words ring Like a low inspiration--"DO THE NEXT THING." Many a question, many of - [Miracles in the Tsunami: a remarkable story from CNN. ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/20/heres-a-remarkable-story-from-cnn-on-miracles/) - When I was clearing out old bookmarks, I came across a remarkable story from CNN, 2004. Read it. ANDERSON COOPER 360 DEGREES A Look at Tsunami Disaster; Year in Review Aired December 31, 2004 - 19:00 ET COOPER: It bears repeating that each night, we've been moved by the stories of people, people who - [The Gift of Listening](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/20/listening/) - "Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.” David Augsburger Yes, listening, really listening to people, without waiting to interject your two-pence is among the greatest gift we can offer people - [Native English badgers to be culled. Oh no, I love them!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/20/native-english-badgers-to-be-culled-oh-no-i-love-them/) - I am sad about the proposed badger cull. As we were driving home late last weekend from a delicious African dinner in Stanton-St. John (chicken in peanut sauce with basil) we saw a badger run across the road in front of our car. I love these unexpected encounters. Wild-life continues to startle us with its - ["Whoever will rise early shall be holy, healthy, and happy" Dame Julianna Berners,](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/19/whoever-will-rise-early-shall-holy-healthy-and-happy-dame-julianna-berners/) - "Whoever will rise early shall holy, healthy, and happy." Treatise on Fishing with an Angle, Dame Julianna Berners. Born in 1388, Prioress of Sopwell nunnery, near St. Alban's. Author of the first book on fishing by a woman - [ In which the Lord Jesus Himself in the Treasure in the Field](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/19/treasure-in-a-field/) - The Lord Jesus has a wonderful parable about the Kingdom of Heaven being like a man who finds a treasure in a field, and in his joy he sells everything he has to buy it. Any high achievement is like the treasure in the field. You "sell" and sacrifice a whole lot to get it. But - [Irene's back from PGL](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/19/39543/) - Irene got home yesterday from an amazing PGL weekend in Wales of canoeing, trapezing, archery, hiking... She snuggled up to me, and said, "I missed you." "Oh, did you think of home and wish you were with us?" I asked, always one for specificity. "Oh no!" she said in horror (Irene loves outdoorsy things!). - [C.S. Lewis on "The Inner Ring"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/19/c-s-lewis-on-the-inner-ring/) - This is a brilliant and ultimately heart-breaking essay, which is worth reading in full, reproduced below. I have put the most striking paragraphs in bold. C. S. Lewis "The Inner Ring" May I read you a few lines from Tolstoi’s War and Peace? When Boris entered the room, Prince Andrey was listening to an old - [Business and Busyness ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/19/business-busyness-and-the-blessed-lack-of-the-latter/) - Jung said somewhere that busyness is not just from the Devil; it is the Devil. And the biggest downside of owning a business is the inevitable busyness. The upside is the creativity it calls forth; the buzz when one's hunches work; and the pleasure of being able to realize dreams, in my case-- travel, learning - [Gardening and Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/18/gardening/) - Grant me the ability to be alone. May it be my custom to go outdoors each day among the trees and grasses, among all growing things...and there may I be alone and enter into prayer to talk with the One that I belong to. Rabbi Nachman. - [The inspiring life of Ken Taylor, author of the best-selling Living Bible](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/18/the-inspiring-life-of-ken-taylor-author-of-the-best-selling-living-bible/) - I really enjoyed My Life: A Guided Tour, autobiography of Ken Taylor, author of The Living Bible, which he self-published because he could not find anyone else to take it. This led to the founding of Tyndale House, the successful Bible publishers.The best ideas whether in writing, art, or business do not originate with the desire - [In Which God Spoke to Me in my Dream](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/18/god-speaks-to-us-through-dreams/) - How does God speak to us? Scripture, providential circumstances, through wise Christian friends, in prayer. And one of the ways God speaks to us is through our minds and imaginations, consciousness and sub-consciousness. In dreams. One of my desires is to be a clear channel for God's spirit, to let nothing hold me back. So - [Saul Bellow's autobiographical account of breaking through writers' block](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/18/saul-bellows-autobiographical-account-of-breaking-through-writers-block/) - Saul Bellow's autobiographical account of breaking through writers' block with the creation of Augie March. My first thought was that I must get rid of the hospital novel—it was poisoning my life. And next I recognized that this was not what being a novelist was supposed to have meant. This bitterness of mine was intolerable, it - [Alain de Botton and the creation of new genres](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/alain-de-botton-and-the-creation-of-new-genres-2/) - I love Alain de Boton's books, especially his ones on Proust, Philosophy, and Travel and here's a cogent statement of what his literary goals are in an excerpt from an interview. Cool, I love these new genres. Essayellas!! Writerspace: How would you like us to remember Alain de Botton and what message or advice would - [Helen Roseveare's Great Questions--Is it worth it? Is Jesus Christ worth it?](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/helen-roseveare-is-it-worth-it/) - I love this story I quote verbatim: "Her name is Helen Roseveare. Helen Roseveare grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Helen Roseveare became a skilled surgeon. All her life, both before and after she came to Christ, and she came to Christ during her university days, Helen Roseveare had a motto. And her - ["Let me Get Home Before Dark," by J. Robertson McQuilkin: A Prayer to Finish Well](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/let-me-get-home-before-dark-by-j-robertson-mcquilkin/) - LET ME GET HOME BEFORE DARK by J. Robertson McQuilkin It's sundown, Lord. The shadows of my life stretch back into the dimness of the years long spent. I fear not death, for that grim foe betrays himself at last, thrusting me forever into life: Life with you, unsoiled and free. But I do - [Composting--Garden magic.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/composting-garden-magic/) - Boys and their toys! Roy has been so happy and content working in the garden of late, because he bought himself a whole lot of fancy toys. A strimmer, which cut our straggly bushes in no time at all, and a shredder to reduce all those branches to shreds for our compost heap. Composting: turning - ["What you can do, or dream you can do, begin it now! Boldness has genius, power and magic in it" Goethe](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/what-you-can-do-or-dream-you-can-do-begin-it-now-boldness-has-genius-power-and-magic-in-it/) - W. H. Murray in The Scottish Himalaya Expedition, 1951. 'But when I said that nothing had been done, I erred in one important matter. We had definitely committed ourselves and were halfway out of our ruts. We had put down our passage money--booked a sailing to Bombay. This may sound too simple, but is great in - [The Joy of Entrepreneurism](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/serial-entrepreneurs-and-the-life-cycle-of-businesses/) - About 4 years ago, I stumbled upon something I really liked which I was good at--starting and running businesses, and getting them from a gleam in the eye and a buzz in the brain to profitable concerns. And each business has had moments in which one thinks it is not going to work: one should - [On Training to be a Vicar in the Church of England (A Guest Post by Jules Middleton) ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/03/01/training-vicar-church-england-guest-post-jules-middleton/) - I am excited to host this guest post by my friend, Jules Middleton, an ordinand in the Church of England. Anita has asked me to write about my experiences at Vicar School. I am an Ordinand (ie: hoping to end up as a Vicar in the CofE), studying a 3 year part-time Foundation Degree in - [A gorgeous passage of restoration. Micah 7.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/a-gorgeous-passage-of-restoration-micah-7/) - Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light. 9 Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the LORD's wrath, until he pleads my case and establishes my right. He will bring me out into the - [Garden news--Queen Anne's Lace and buttercups. Flowering Judas tree](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/garden-news-queen-annes-lace-and-buttercups-flowering-judas-tree/) - May 17th, 2010 I went for my daily run in our paddock today. The rain overnight had made the tall, flowering Queen Anne's Lace bunch together so that it was like a sea of white. I couldn't bear to run through it and trample it. The buttercups are emerging. It will soon be a sea - [Great satisfaction in simple things. Organization in the age of Affluenza](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/17/great-satisfaction-in-simple-things-organization-in-the-age-of-affluenza/) - It's odd how much satisfaction one can derive from simple things. My clothes were all higgledy-piggledy in my dresser, and I took them out, folded them neatly to find more space, and gritted my teeth and got rid of things which were faded, or looked lovely when I was thinner. But not now. What satisfaction - [In which the Best Known Literary Passages are, in fact, from the Bible!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/the-best-christian-literature-of-all-time/) - What are the best known pieces of writing of all time? The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk - [The Transforming Mystical Experience of Frank Laubach](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/the-transforming-mystical-experience-of-frank-laubach/) - One of my favourite Christians is Frank Laubach, whose literacy program "Each One Teach One" taught 60 million people to read. I cannot speak too highly of his little book, "Prayer, the Mightiest Force in the World." Here is his account of his transforming mystical experience--and its aftermath. Note how God blesses him all at - [John Donne "The Holy Ghost," a powerful poem](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/john-donne-on-the-holy-ghost/) - The Holy Ghost O Holy Ghost, whose temple I Am, but of mud walls and condensed dust, And being sacrilegiously Half wasted with youth’s fires, of pride and lust Must with new storms be weather-beat; Double in my heart Thy flame, Which let devout sad tears intend; and let (Though this glass lanthorn, flesh, do suffer - [In praise, once again, of country living](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/a-city-mouse-in-the-country/) - We had dinner last night at Stanton St. John, a pretty village about 5 miles from Oxford. I enjoyed driving there. Everything was pretty, picturesque. Wide open spaces for the spirit to unfurl. Leaving Oxford to my village, Garsington, is a very similar experiences. You drive past open fields, and get into a relaxed, country - [Forced recycling in South Oxfordshire](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/forced-recycling-in-south-oxfordshire/) - I am a a fan of Flylady, the Domestic Organization goddess, who suggests that one should not get caught up in guilt about recycling until one gets one's act together--domestically. And so I did not. I was an extremely sporadic recyler. Then my county, South Oxfordshire, decided it did not want to be fined for - [God gives each of us the perfect IQ for the work he intends us to do](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/god-determined-the-exact-places-we-should-live-acts-1726/) - God determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' Paul to the Athenians, - [St. Patrick's Breastplate](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/st-patricks-breastplate/) - Oh how I LOVE this prayer. Christ be beside me, Christ be before me, Christ be behind me, King of my heart, Christ be within me, Christ be below me, Christ be above me, never to part. Christ on my right hand, Christ on my left hand, Christ all around me, shield in the strife. - [The Holy Spirit Defends and Comfort; Satan Accuses and Attacks](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/the-counselor-the-spirit-of-truth-the-advocate-the-comforter-the-helper/) - "When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me." Whereas the etymological meaning of Satan, Diabolus, is the Accuser, the Slanderer, that of Paraclete, is the Advocate, the Counselor, the Helper. That underscores what I have - [In Praise of Manual Work](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/15/in-praise-of-manual-work/) - Roy and I are, and always have been, people who've earned our living, such as it is, at our computers. None the less, whenever I embark on manual work, okay, not heavy duty manual work-- just painting, cleaning, re-organizing, gardening--I am charmed by it. By how manual work literally helps one work off one's bad - [How Forgiveness Unlocks the Goodness of Life: A Guest Post by Carmel Thomason](https://anitamathias.com/2014/02/16/seeing-goodness-life/) - As a journalist I meet all kinds of people. I usually want to make people look their best. Sometimes it's harder, because some people don't help themselves. They've already decided all journalists are sour people who want to focus on the worst aspects of life. There are people who make it clear that they don't - ["Preaching the Gospel to yourself" by Rose Marie Miller](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/preaching-the-gospel-to-yourself-by-rose-marie-miller/) - I received this email today from wonderful Rose Marie Miller. How important it is for those in ministry, those who constantly endeavour to refresh other people's souls, not to forget to preach the Gospel to themselves, and nourish their own souls! "I have gone through a long time of spiritual dryness. But then something strange - [Connections in High Places](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/connections-in-high-places/) - Can miracles happen today? Breakthroughs in creativity? In writing? In publishing? Financial miracles? Breakthroughs in health? Well, people always say, "It's not what you know, but who you know." Well, I retain my faith in miracles, because you see, I am incredibly well-connected. I know a guy who can change 5 loaves to 5000; - [Second Acts in the Christian Life](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/second-acts-in-the-christian-life/) - "There are no second acts in American life" F. Scott Fitzgerald. That was among the stupider things said by a smart person. (One of the downsides of perfecting the art of writing, is that one can hone quotable sentences from dumb thoughts that otherwise wouldn't bear repetition.). Fitzgerald destroyed himself through drink, intensity, an unwise - [Why I want to go to Tonle Batie, Cambodia with Tearfund ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/05/want-go-tonle-batie-cambodia-tearfund/) - I am applying to travel with Tearfund to Cambodia, to the village of Tonle Batie, near Pnomh Penh. Cambodia endured extreme economic and social devastation during the years of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, which has left a legacy of widows and orphans; of people who find it difficult to trust each other enough - [In which I will be Visiting Cambodia with Tearfund in March 2014](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/17/video/) - I am excited to announce that I will be going to Cambodia with Tearfund in March. Here is my post about why I would like to visit Tonle Batie, Cambodia with Tearfund. And here is Tearfund’s video announcement http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLSm7DmfIZw&feature=youtu.be Read Tearfund’s Press Release. ‘Bloggers can change the world, or at the least they can change the way - [Flylady.net on Domestic Routines](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/flylady-net-on-setting-up-domestic-routines/) - Flylady.net on the importance of setting up domestic routines “As you establish the basic habits, you are going to begin to feel your light shining brightly! With your habits established you are free to follow your dreams and use your creativity in ways that bless you instead of ways that sidetrack you. You can't skip - [Learning French ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/learning-french-at-alliance-francaise/) - When I was younger, I used to read about all the things one should do to prevent a middle-aged brain degenerating into an old and useless brain. Learning languages was on every list. That's always been a passion of mine. So, one day, you wake up, and discover: YOU are middle-aged. Time to learn those - [Flylady and Hospitality: An Idiosyncratic Approach!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/14/flylady-and-hospitality-an-idiosyncratic-approach/) - Flylady, the spunky North Carolinian housekeeping guru has this amusing advice--if your house gets messy invite someone to visit to motivate you to clean it up. If it gets really messy, really desperate, invite someone to stay. Last Sunday, we hosted a tea party today for 14 adults & 17 children, all of whom got on - [Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/13/hudson-taylors-spiritual-secret-2/) - Hudson Taylor, exhausted, learned this spiritual secret which was the turning point of his spiritual life. We grow spiritually, "not by striving to have faith, but by resting on the faithful one." From the letter Taylor wrote after this transforming spiritual experience. "How then to have our faith increased? Only by thinking of all that - [To find God you need Silence](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/13/to-find-god-you-need-silence/) - "He did not think that there was enough quiet in the world. To realise God you need silence. He loved spaces for silence, and places of silence. He encouraged the practice of retreats. He was an inspiring conductor of retreats. He thought of the religious communities as little havens of quiet scattered across society ..." - [A camel through the eye of a needle/ Rich men in the Kingdom](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/13/a-camel-through-the-eye-of-a-needle-rich-men-in-the-kingdom/) - 23Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.24Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." 25When the disciples - [My Needs are many, but my Supplies are Infinite--Thought for the Day](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/11/my-needs-are-many-but-my-supplies-are-infinite-thought-for-the-day/) - Irene in New ZealandA salutory reminder of the streams of living water. My needs are many, but my supplies are infinite Jesus is the Fountain of grace and mercy. He alone can give to his people the assurance of hope, because none but He is infinite in power, and infinite in grace. Hear his - [Absolute Surrender, and the Christian Life](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/12/absolute-surrender-and-the-christian-life/) - I am not athletic. At all! During a family trip to the Dunes du Pyla near Bordeaux, the largest sand dune in Europe, I sat on the sand, watching my family climb it, and enjoy the views up the sand-mountain.I have stood at edge of rinks, and watched Roy ice-skate; sat at the edge - [Traditional English Edible hedges--Cottage Garden Style](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/traditional-english-edible-hedges-cottage-garden-style/) - I tried to build an edible hedge when we lived in Williamsburg, Virginia, without success. I'm now reading about traditional English hedges, and would love to build one. Traditional English hedges around cottage gardens had a dual purpose--to keep sheep out, and chickens in. The hedge was inter-planted with fruit and roses, so the precious - [Garden news--Queen Anne's Lace](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/garden-news-queen-annes-lace/) - One of the wonderful things about my garden is how suddenly things happen. I haven't walked in my paddock for a few days, and when I go there now, it is a riot of Queen Anne's Lace. Very beautiful! “To own a bit of ground, to scratch it with a hoe, to plant seeds, and - [The First Thing in the Morning!](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/09/the-first-thing-in-the-morning/) - My preferred First Thing in the Morning activity I wrote this years ago, when we lived in America and Zoe was a baby. It was published in The Washington Post in 1997! I thought you might enjoy it. The First Thing in the Morning Exercise first thing in the morning, my - [Christian Fiction and "Shadowmancer" by G. P. Taylor](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/christian-fiction-and-shadowmancer-3/) - Christian Literature, writing which compromises neither its literary quality nor its ability to point us Christwards—is a holy grail for those of us who are both Christians and writers. Lewis created it, and Tolkein, and Bunyan. I read Shadowmancer by G.P. Taylor to Irene, then 8 and she was gripped by it. I heard him Taylor at - ["Anima Naturaliter Christiana": A Naturally Christian Soul](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/anima-naturaliter-christiana-a-naturally-christian-soul/) - "Anima naturaliter Christiana" A naturally Christian soul. A phrase used to describe Virgil. You sometimes meet these sort of decent, wonderful people--of every race, culture, religious persuasion--or lack of any faith at all. And all you can do is cheer. And you sometimes meet these naturally Christian souls in the animal kingdom. My sweet first - ["Free writing"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/free-writing-2/) - "For freedom Christ has set us free." And that is the way to write--rapidly, without too much of worry, looking over one's shoulder, worrying what people think, or trying too hard for perfection, which is not perfectly attainable on this earth. And just the act of writing, even writing badly, after a writers' block provides - [A Love Song for Poetry](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/writing-poetry/) - Zoe asked me where I had got the title of my first book, "Wandering between Two Worlds" from. I told her it from from a Matthew Arnold poem, "Stanzas from the Grande Chartreuse" which I had read when I was 16. I recited bits of it to her "Wandering between two worlds, one dead, The - [Your Trajectory is What Matters, Not Where you Currently Are](https://anitamathias.com/2012/06/17/your-trajectory-is-far-more-important-than-where-you-currently-are/) - I love King David. Who doesn’t? I spoke about Saul and David to my small group, five years ago, and loved preparing the talk from Samuel and Kings. One of the things which struck me was that your trajectory is far more important than where you currently are. * * * Saul, to all appearances, was - [Returning to Writing after a Break](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/returning-to-writing-after-a-break-2/) - Oh, the agony of returning to writing after a break. One has a monkey mind, leaping and skipping all over the place. So one just has to steadily plug on, until monkey mind calms down and settles down. Reading poetry helps. Poetry is truly one of the most beautiful things men and women have ever created. - [Saul Bellow and Breaking through Writer's Block. ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/saul-bellow-and-breaking-through-a-writers-block-i-love-this-story-2/) - How Saul Bellow Broke Through a Crippling Writer's Block In 1949, Saul Bellow, thirty-three years old, with two books under his belt (Dangling Man and The Victim), was living in Paris on a Guggenheim fellowship, feeling pressured to produce a third book in line with the modernist minimalism that had ensured the critical success of the first - [I am the gate; whoever enters through me will come in and go out, and find pasture. John 10:9](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/12/i-am-the-gate-whoever-enters-through-me-will-come-in-and-go-out-and-find-pasture-john-109/) - I AM THE GATE. I love that image. Jesus as a wide open door, through whom we step into abundant life. We are never in prison, never entirely the victim of our circumstances. We can always open the door of Jesus, follow the leading of Jesus, into the life we crave. And when human doors - [Talking of the Waterfall, Walking to the Waterfall](https://anitamathias.com/2012/02/04/talking-of-the-waterfall-walking-to-the-waterfall/) - Image Credit So you are setting out to meet the lion at the head of the waterfall. The waterfall of joy, which satisfies the heart’s desires. The waterfall of delight. The waterfall of refreshment. * * * But the way is long and sweaty, and there are temptations everywhere. You look down and see gold–fool’s - ["Why are you talking about having no bread?" Mark 8](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/why-are-you-talking-about-having-no-bread-mark-8/) - (This takes place after Jesus has fed 5000 from 5 loaves.) Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: "Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don't you remember? 19When I - [Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God, Not Food](https://anitamathias.com/2011/02/02/made-to-crave-satisfying-your-deepest-desire-with-god-not-food/) - I came across this idea on Ann Voskamp's blog, Holy Experience. I don't think I will buy the book because my stack of unread books is looking dangerous, but I like the idea. I have used chocolate and crisps and fudge to deal with stress for years. Though it is a short-term solution which creates - [The Christianization of Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2012/02/01/the-christianization-of-irene/) - Irene, as a four year old, praying impromptu in Switzerland, thanking God for the Rhine Falls. So Irene, 12, walks into Zoe’s room, asking for help with homework. Zoe, 17, doing her AS’s says, “No, go away.” Then Irene realizes Zoe is sucking one of the three treasured candy canes she had squirreled away from - [The Process of Sanctification: A Guest Post by Kris Camealy](https://anitamathias.com/2013/02/01/holy-wholly-holy-a-guest-post-by-kris-camealy/) - I am honoured to host this excerpt from my blogging friend Kris Camealy's first book, Holey, Wholly, Holy. The best title of the year, isn't it? “We are brought down to the dust; our bodies cling to the ground. Rise up and help us; redeem us because of your unfailing love” (Psalm 44:25-26). We begin - ["A blog for those who don't like reading or writing"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/a-blog-for-those-who-dont-like-reading-or-writing/) - Roy, watching me tear the shrink-wrap off a packet of crackers with my teeth is now threatening to have a video-blog for those who don't like reading or writing. He's only to follow me through my day, recording my eccentricities, he threatens. Roy and writing--cognitive dissonance. However, he claims he wants to have a blog - [In Which Jesus Says That, For Our Sakes, He's Glad About the Grief Which Deepens Our Faith](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/15/choosing-the-pearl/) - “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake, I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe.” John 11 What? So you considered it worth it? That grief so shattering that we wished we too could just die. That emptiness, life robbed of its point, You were glad all that happened Just so we could believe? - ["Wandering between Two Worlds" chosen by book group](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/wandering-between-two-worlds-chosen-by-book-group/) - I discussed my first book, Wandering Between Two Worlds, at the Anchor Book Group from 7.30 p.m. to 9.45 p.m. yesterday. Exhausting. I was half-dead when I left, but happy that people had read it, and apparently, read it carefully. When I dragged myself to our car, Roy asked, "So are you going to go - [A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world's light.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/a-man-who-walks-by-day-will-not-stumble-for-he-sees-by-this-worlds-light/) - "Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world's light. It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light!" John 11:9 I certainly don't want to extrapolate more from Jesus's words than he himself meant. On the - [ The Blessings of Those who are Rich in Time](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/time-versus-money/) - A friend of mine, whom Roy calls a wisenheimer--someone with opinions on everything--says that a basic principle when faced with ordinary, every day choices is that of time versus money. If your time is in shorter supply than money, solve problems by throwing money at them; outsource all the work you can; do nothing which can - [How to Reverse a Downward Spiral](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/11/reversing-a-downward-spiral/) - A way to reverse the direction of a downward spiral, a vicious circle, a slump, is to start doing just one right thing. *Exercise is one of those things with enormous leverage--affecting mood, sleep, self-esteem, and one's sense of well-being. * Any addition of physical work--gardening, for example. * Waking earlier also helps, if one - [ Let Nothing Disturb Thee: St. Teresa of Avila's beautiful poem](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/a-lovely-poem-from-st-teresa-of-avila/) - I first read this when I was 18, wrote it into the flyleaf of my Bible, memorised it, and often say it to myself when I am stressed. Teresa of Avila (1515-1582) Lines Written in Her Breviary Let nothing disturb thee, Nothing affright thee All things are passing; God never - [My heavenly daughter, Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/my-heavenly-daughter-2/) - I generally sort out logistical challenges, like how to provide lunch for 15 people in the context of prayer. I was puzzling this out, while Irene kept coming up with every more time-intensive and impractical menu suggestions. "Hush, Irene," I said, "I am trying to discuss this problem with my Heavenly Father." I said. "Well," - [Garden news](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/garden-news/) - Apple tree in the garden covered with dazzling white blossoms, soon to be replaced by bright red apples. And the mourning doves, with their ironic name, sing loudly and crazily of joy!! - [In Praise of Naps](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/in-praise-of-naps/) - I am doing quite well with waking up a little earlier every day because I do have a perfect, and perfectly restful nap later on, if I need to. One of my favourite descriptions of a nap is Iris Murdoch's "Two days for the price of one," in "The Good Apprentice." I also love Thomas - [Never Believe the Pronouncements of Theologians if They Conflict with Your Intuitive Moral Sense](https://anitamathias.com/2012/04/25/never-believe-pronouncements-of-theologians-if-they-conflict-with-your-own-moral-sense-needed-a-healthy-dose-of-scepticism/) - Never believe pronouncements of theologians if they conflict with your own moral sense. I am re-reading John Piper’s extraordinary, honest and remarkably self-analytical account of his racist past. Jesse Jackson grew up 3 miles across the town from Piper, in Greenville, South Carolina. Piper writes: Our worlds were so close and yet so far apart. His - [ In Which Zoe Believes Money-Dollars Grows on Trees](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/money-dollars-2/) - Our toddler Zoe occasionally heard us talk about money when we lived in America. She would prick up her ears, and say, "Money? Money-dollars? You want money? Here take!" and give us a handful of imaginary dollar bills. We'd laugh. But there was a truth to it. It would be just as easy for God - [Peace like a River by Leif Enger](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/peace-like-a-river-by-leif-enger/) - I am reading this, in a manner of speaking, listening to on tape, while I do the dishes, more precisely. Though I have a hard copy with me, as I like to do when I listen to books on tape, to revel in the loveliest passages, or to find out what's going to happen when - [Originality](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/originality/) - Even in literature and art, no man who bothers about originality will ever be original: whereas if you simply try to tell the truth (without caring tuppence how often it has been told before) you will, nine times out of ten, become original without ever having noticed it. C. S. Lewis - [The Similarity Between Blogging and Writing Poetry](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/10/blogging-and-poetry-2/) - Blogging and Poetry Blogging and writing poetry require a faith in your own thoughts, faith and hope that they may be interesting, and the acquired habit of capturing your thoughts in words. They both require compression. And the more you write, the more you see things to write about. - [How to Write Really Well](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/the-best-way-to-begin-writing-really-well/) - I think there is a lot of wisdom in that old chestnut--that the best way to get really good at writing is to write a lot! And read a lot. And if one has neither time or energy to do either? Then, trust God from whom all creativity flows! - [Getting into the Writing Mood](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/getting-into-the-writing-mood/) - When I don't have much time, I just plunge into writing when free slots slow up. When I have lots of time, I slowly "got into the mood" by a slow process of arousal, by reading poetry, or reading prose until the rhythms build up inside me, started thudding in my veins, and I felt - [In which Sarah Bessey Writes a Guest Post: The Genesis of a Jesus Feminist](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/21/sarah-bessey-writes-guest-post-genesis-jesus-feminist/) - Jesus Feminist grew organically out of my life in Christ. As a writer and blogger, I love to write through my life to figure out what I think and believe and dream about God, as well as the Church, marriage, motherhood, community, global issues, all of it. So as I was writing through these intersections - [In Which Zoe Says Her Favourite Place in the Whole World is Her Own Home](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/mon-maison/) - Zoe and I go to conversation classes at the Alliance Francaise once a week. We were asked to describe our favourite place in the world. Everyone else said places like Switzerland, New Zealand, Venice, Costa Rica. Zoe said, "Mon Maison. I love my house. I love my new conservatory. I love my garden. I love - [In which Roy cruelly nixes my lavender kitchen](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/a-lavender-kitchen/) - I now have a freshly painted kitchen, painted by Roy. I so wanted to paint it lavender, like the kitchens I saw in Provence (yellow, bright blue...) but Roy said if it was lavender, I would have to do all the cooking as he wouldn't step into it. "Haven't you heard of feminism?" I asked - [When Dreams Come True: Or Martin Luther King’s Dream Was Not Wild Enough](https://anitamathias.com/2012/11/11/when-dreams-come-true-or-martin-luther-kings-dream-was-not-wild-enough/) - As a teenager, the American Jesuits at Xavier Labour Relations Institute, Jamshedpur, where my father taught, lent me an anthology of Great American Speeches to prepare for elocution competions. And so I memorized Frederick Douglass’ brilliant, “What to the slave is the Fourth of July,” (1854) and Martin Luther King’s equally brilliant, “I have a - [In which Jake the Collie Thinks He's Zoe](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/jake-and-zoe/) - Jake the Collie now thinks he's Zoe. We are going through our list of house and garden chores with frequent summons to strong, practical helpful Zoe when the going gets tough. She, working on her Othello essay, has developed selective hearing. But Jake appears each time, happily wagging his tail! - [ In Which Irene Analysed British Political Speech](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/08/irene-and-her-ipod-touch/) - I no longer repent that I bought Irene her Ipod touch on impulse. She listened to all three leader's debates on her Ipod this morning, and was hugely amused at the Oxford Union style of debating. Nick Clegg interrupting to ask, "Yes or no, yes or no?" Come on, Nick, life isn't that simple. Her - [Can a Middle-Aged Person change their character and life for the better?](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/07/the-questions-of-middle-age/) - One of the great questions of middle age: Can change, real deep substantive change in one's character, habits and thinking, happen in middle age? Only 13% of people over 50 keep their New Year's resolutions, but 39% of people in their twenties. Of course, we can change, or why go on living? One can change as - ["You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good, for the saving of many lives"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/07/you-meant-it-for-evil-but-god-meant-it-for-good-for-the-saving-of-many-lives/) - So Joseph tells his brothers who betrayed him, tried to kill him, sold him into slavery. He let it go, left vengeance with God. Forgiveness is easier when you can see how God truly made it work out for good. In a situation, in which I was greatly wronged, 2 years ago, I have seen, - [In which Prayer is like Air Support](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/07/air-support/) - I love the brilliant John Piper metaphor for prayer. An embattled foot soldier, surrounded by his enemies calls on his walkie-talkie for aerial support. Which flies in. That's what I sometimes feel like. In dire need of aerial support. Which does come at my time of need. At a prayer. - [In which Zoe gives Irene a shirt declaring "I am always right," and Irene almost believes it](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/07/i-am-always-right/) - Irene uses her beloved Ipod touch to email people, listen to countless books on tape, play scrabble and boggle, and get a word a day sent to her, which she memorizes. She announced today that she is now officially cleverer than me because I didn't know 5 of these obscure words! And because her birthday - [Why I Run: A Guest Post by Jennifer Luitwieler](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/15/run-guest-post-jennifer-luitwieler/) - Read on and be inspired by this guest post from Jennifer Luitwieler, pictured here running in the Pittsburgh Marathon If it is true that every act is sacred, then running is my most perfect sacred act. Sometimes, running is my sacrifice, where I haul all my insecurities, inhibitions, pains and frustrations to the altar and - [New Year’s Resolutions, 2014 : A Long Obedience in the Same Direction ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/14/new-years-resolutions-2014-long-obedience-direction/) - “The essential thing "in heaven and in earth" is that there should be long OBEDIENCE in the same direction, there thereby results, and has always resulted in the long run, something which has made life worth living; for instance, virtue, art, music, dancing, reason, spirituality-- anything whatever that is transfiguring, refined, foolish, or divine.” Nietzsche, - ["The Lord gives you the power to produce wealth" Deut. 8:18](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/06/the-lord-gives-you-the-power-to-produce-wealth-deut-818/) - Roy has a very important deal to negotiate today. I am not particularly good at negotiation. I either pay or agree to the price asked, or suggest another (which, to my astonishment, is often accepted.) Yet, somehow, I am usually offered good prices/deals. I used to get stressed when I was younger, and heard people - [God will silence your enemies--C.H. Spurgeon. Thought for the Day.](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/14/god-will-silence-your-enemies-c-h-spurgeon-thought-for-the-day/) - "Sometimes God pleads the cause of his people by silencing their enemies. What a remarkable instance you have of this in the case of Jacob! His sons had most cruelly and basely killed the Shechemites. Having betrayed them by false promises, they then slew them in cold blood. Jacob said, “Ye have troubled me to - [In which I discover that if you hire your spouse, you cannot so easily fire them.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/roy-and-i/) - Hot tip to all small business owners. DO NOT hire your spouse. Roy just made a really stupid, and somewhat costly, mistake, and when I told him off in no uncertain terms, just stood there, grinning happily from ear to ear, as if he had done the greatest thing in the world. " Well then, - [Nothing nicer than a spirit-filled church](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/a-spirit-filled-church/) - I have always thought that phrase was somewhat conceited. My church is by no means perfect, & neither am I, but it is, to use a glib, over-used phrase, definitely "spirit-filled." I.e. one goes there, often empty, distracted, secular in one's thinking, and yet slowly, mysteriously, one does encounter God there; get filled again with his - [When my Family say, "Mum, say Business," when they want to smile for the Camera](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/business/) - Somewhat to my surprise, I have discovered that I thoroughly enjoy running our business, a publishing company. When our family wanted me to smile for pictures, they used to say "say cheese" (and once as she became daring a girl said, "Say Sex," which requires the same smiley position of the lips). Now they say, - [ In which Family Life Makes us Laugh](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/family-life/) - Whenever the girls did anything amazing, I would observe proudly, "Isn't she good? See how well I have brought her up?" The other day, Roy was very noble, and I observed proudly, "Isn't he nice? See how well I brought..." Irene said, "YOU brought him up?" Roars of laughter! - [In which I study Jake, my Border Collie](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/jake-my-collie-dog-3/) - Whenever we said the word, "Walk," Jake would jump up in unbearable excitement, wagging his tail. Now however, I have taken up jogging (I call it running though!) Fortunately, he does not know the word "run," so remains passively ensconced at the foot of my bed, as I go through the repeated cycle of observing - ["I will restore to you the years the locusts have eaten," Joel 2:25](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/i-will-restore-to-you-the-years-the-locusts-have-eaten-joel-225/) - "I will restore to you the years the locusts have eaten," Joel 2:25 It is easy for me to see how that can be true with money--God turning on the tap, blessing the work of your hands, and money exponentially flowing. It was not that clear to me how this applied to time. But I - [Why, when you learn to trust God, you smile!](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/14/why-when-you-learn-to-trust-god-you-smile/) - Irene at 4 I have heard Jack Miller of World Harvest Mission tell this story, and Max Lucado too. Tom walks down the street and meets Dick, who is grinning from ear to ear. Tom, "What are you so happy about?" Dick, "Well, I've met a man who promised to do all my worrying for me - [Irene: The Laughing Philosopher](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/the-laughing-philosopher/) - Irene floating on her back in the ocean declares happily, "I am the laughing philosopher. I have discovered that most things don't really matter." A huge wave burst over her, getting into her hair, eyes and nose. The laughing philosopher now says wryly, "Waves matter!" - [Deliver us from Evil](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/deliver-us-from-evil/) - One sometimes has a sense of oppression, of the world being against one. Though the years, I have begun to realize it is in fact, the presence of evil that I am sensing. But God is the strongest power and force in the world. As Jesus said, His father could even now send twelve legions - [Like is like Chess. As long as you have your King, you haven't yet lost. ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/05/quote-from-zoe/) - It’s like Chess. If you lose everything and have your King, you haven’t lost. But if you have everything, but lose your King, you have lost. Zoe Mathias, aged 8 - [Marlowe's Doctor Faustus](https://anitamathias.com/2011/03/10/marlowes-doctor-faustus/) - Christopher Marlowe We saw the Creation Theatre’s production of Marlowe’s Dr. Faustus at Blackwell’s on Friday. Amazing to watch it surrounded by books in the Norrington Room. I was amazed to realize how much of that sheer poetry I remembered from my undergraduate days–I have only seen Faust once since then. Mephistopheles was a - [The Bird I would most like to See: A Puffin](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/07/the-bird-i-would-most-like-to-see-a-puffin/) - Atlantic Puffin A Puffin. That's the wild bird I most want to see. Last year, I saw a penguins in the wild, in New Zealand, which I never expected to--indigo penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, and crested penguins. I also saw an albatross, which I never expected to. Next on my hit-list is a puffin. Where should - [Changing the Story: Seeing the Pain of Life Through a Filter of Thanksgiving](https://anitamathias.com/2012/01/08/changing-the-story-seeing-the-pain-of-life-through-a-filter-of-thanksgiving/) - Image Credit I was suddenly reminded today of a painful episode of my life, and shed a few tearsAnd then I thought of something else, and felt overwhelmingly grateful. * * * When I was a young girl and then a young woman, I had an older mentor who invested a lot in me—telling - [Poems on Marriage from Wendell Berry and R. S. Thomas](https://anitamathias.com/2011/01/09/poems-on-marriage-from-wendell-berry-and-r-s-thomas/) - R.S. Thomas AnniversaryNineteen - [In Which Zoe Defines a Visionary](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/04/a-visionary/) - A friend called me "a visionary." I was rather pleased. Zoe, "But Jesus wasn't a visionary." Me, "He was all that is good." Zoe, "No, he wasn't a visionary. He just figured out what God wanted and did it. He let God be the visionary." And stormed off to bed before I could come up - [Becoming a person full of joy, overflowing with thankfulness is a matter of practice!](https://anitamathias.com/2012/03/03/full-of-joy-overflowing-with-thankfulness/) - Irene, delighted with and thankful for the sash of her new dress! About 15 years ago, I was on a women’s retreat at which we were asked to write down what we wanted our lives to look like in 5 years. Along with ambitious, pipe-dream goals which have not come to pass, I included - [My One Word for 2014: Alignment ](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/08/one-word-2014-alignment/) - This the first year that I have chosen One Word for the year. “One word that sums up who you want to be or how you want to live. One word that you can focus on every day, all year long. Your one word will shape not only your year, but also you. It will become - [10 Lessons from Heartbreak Time and Death and Resurrection in Writing my Memoir (Part I) ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/04/29/10-lessons-from-heartbreak-time-and-death-and-resurrection-in-writing-my-memoir-part-i/) - So, around 1987, when I was reading English at Somerville College, Oxford, Salman Rushdie read from Midnight’s Children at the Oxford University Majlis, the Indian society. And I stay up all night reading Midnight’s Children, transfixed. At least 95% of the novels, plays, poetry I had read until then had been written by British, American - ["Manon of the Spring" by Marcel Pagnol and the Justice of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/04/manon-of-the-spring-marcel-pagnol-claude-berri/) - I had first watched 4 Pagnol movies with Roy about 20 years ago. We watched them all this year this equal delight, My Father's Glory, My Mother's Castle, Jean de Florette and Manon of the Spring. We watched Manon yesterday. It is gorgeous visually, of course, but on one level appears to be about mankind's - [Zoe's very long walk!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/zoes-very-long-walk/) - A very tired and bedraggled Zoe has returned from a 48 km. hike with her friends in the Forest of Dean. Well, it was meant to 48 km, but longer as they got lost. The Duke of Edinburgh expedition! At times, all 7 of them, 15 year old girls, sat in a circle and cried - [Trials and Temptations, James 1](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/blogging-the-st-aldates-evening-service-james-1/) - Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one - [The "I Don't Do" List Makes Possible the "I Do" List. You Must Revise Your Life](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/06/dont-list-makes-possible-list-must-revise-life/) - Have you ever thought of creating “I Don’t Do” lists instead of being “crazy-busy?” Check out Shauna Niequist’s or Mary DeMuth’s or Ann Lamott’s. These lists have humility at their heart. You realize that if your goals differ from every other mum’s in church or at the school gate you cannot do what every other mum at church - [2013 Hopes, Goals and Dreams ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/01/01/2013-hopes-goals-and-dreams/) - I. WRITING 1. Complete “I Lift up my Eyes to the Hills,” a memoir of an Indian Childhood Strategy—Start with 30 minutes on Jan 1st, increase time by 5 minutes a day until I am writing 1000 good words a day. (Should take 2-4 hours a day). Work six days a week. 2. Blog Though the Bible - [In Which God sends Ravens and Meat in the Wilderness](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/ravens-in-the-wilderness/) - Sermon on Elijah at St. Aldate's (1 Kings 17) A mixture of the sermon notes and my thoughts Elijah Fed by Ravens 1Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbea in Gilead, said to Ahab, “As the LORD, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at - [Why I Believe in the Resurrection](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/04/believe-resurrection/) - As I was drifting off to sleep last night, I murmured, “I believe in the resurrection.” Roy, woken up, said, amused, “I am glad to hear it!” * * * I was thinking of this passage I had recently read in Diarmaid MacCulloch’s magisterial, A History of Christianity. Christianity is, at root, a personality cult. Its - [In which I Remember that God Loves Me](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/27/remember-god-loves/) - Nowadays, when I look around my house and see mess, or when my eyes fall on expensive books I have bought but haven’t read, or I remember a project I started enthusiastically but haven’t completed, I tell myself the same thing: “God loves me.” When my blog is not growing; or I have been snubbed; - [The Sweet Coming of the Holy Spirit--"When the Spirit Comes"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/the-sweet-coming-of-the-holy-spirit-when-the-spirit-comes/) - “Which of you fathers, if your son asks forf a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to - [Hiding yourself in God, Psalm 57](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/hiding-yourself-in-god-psalm-57/) - Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the danger has passed. Psalm 57. I love how the Psalms tune and sensitise my spirit, make me aware of thoughts and emotions I am barely conscious - ["More things are wrought by prayer," Tennyson, Morte D'Arthur](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/03/more-things-are-wrought-by-prayer-tennyson-morte-darthur/) - I love this passage from Tennyson's Morte D'Arthur And slowly answer'd Arthur from the barge: "The old order changeth, yielding place to new, And God fulfils Himself in many ways, Lest one good custom should corrupt the world. Comfort thyself: what comfort is in me? I have lived my life, and that which I have - [How I am Navigating Facebook](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/02/on-facebook/) - I started using Facebook last year, in 2009, when it was 4 years old. It's an amazing success story, and I do love it for how it connects me to people from my past, from various phases and stages of my life. It's amazing--an amazing way to tap the zeitgeist, to find out what your - [God Comes to Those Who Dare to be Different: Do Not Be Afraid](https://anitamathias.com/2014/01/01/god-comes-dare-different-afraid/) - And when God chose to become flesh and dwell among us, the angel wisely prefaces his glorious announcement, “You have found favour with God,” with “Do not be afraid.” You, a “virgin,” will bear a child. Do not be afraid. Oh, the looming scandal, what would people say? Many might have politely rejected this “blessing,” but Mary - [The Martyr's Memorial to Latimer, Ridley and Cranmer, St. Giles, Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2011/09/09/the-martyrs-memorial-to-latimer-ridley-and-cranmer-st-giles-oxford/) - This beautiful building celebrates the 16th century Oxford Martyrs, Cranmer, Ridley and Latimer. The Victorian Gothic building resembles the spire of a sunken cathedral, doesn’t it? At this spot, the English Reformers, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, the great preacher and theologian of the English Reformation were burnt at the stake in the middle of cobble - ["All may; none must; some should:" The Anglican Mantra](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/02/all-may-none-must-some-should/) - As I was reading about the life of Cranmer, celebrated in the Martyr's Memorial in Oxford, I came across this splendid Anglican aphorism for the practice of Confession. "All may; none must; some should". Despite its sad and bloody beginnings, Anglicanism has, in fact, distinguished itself by its peaceful spirit of compromise. There is something very - [Sundays, Poustinia, and Rest](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/02/sundays-poustinia-and-rest/) - Several, several years ago, Roy and I went on a retreat in a "poustinia," a concept popularized by Catherine Doherty. We were given a cabin in the snowy woods in Minnesota, and meals were brought to us in a basket. The center was called "Pacem in Terris." Peace on Earth. Indeed! One of the things - [Most Read Posts on Dreaming Beneath the Spires in 2013](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/31/read-posts-dreaming-beneath-spires-2013/) - I moved to the Genesis framework on Wordpress in Sept. 2013, which obliging wiped out all my previous stats!! So I only have stats since September 15th, 2013. Since then, there are the most read posts on Dreaming Beneath the Spires. 1 The Cwmbran Outpouring: The 2013 Welsh Revival, A Personal Report 2 When Christian - ["I Said to the Man who Stood at the Gate of the Year" (From "The King's Speech")](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/30/i-said-to-the-man-who-stood-at-the-gate-of-the-year/) - Image credit I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year 'Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.' And he replied, 'Go into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God That shall be to you better than light and safer than a - [Marc Chagall--Master of Colour!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/02/marc-chagall-the-master-of-colour/) - I loved the huge stained glass windows created by Marc Chagall in the Cathedral of Reims. Something about his whimsical flying figures appeals to me, feels to me like a metaphor for how my soul and spirit long to be. I love the brilliance of the colour Chagall uses. When Matisse dies", Picasso remarked, "Chagall will - [The Most Intolerable Mother in the World](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/28/the-most-intolerable-mother-in-the-world/) - Whenever I show off about my children, even privately, Roy tells me, "Well, don't worry, you're not yet the most intolerable mother in the world." He is now illustrating a cartoon series on the most intolerable mothers of the world. - [God as Gardener](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/god-as-gardener/) - John 15:1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener." God as gardener. That's a lovely metaphor of Jesus's. - [Evangelism should begin with Jesus, and with the Gospel as He presented it](https://anitamathias.com/2012/06/25/evangelism-should-begin-with-jesus-and-with-the-gospel-as-he-presented-it/) - Evangelism should begin not with abstract theory, but with Jesus, and the the Gospel as he presented it. “The Gospel according to Jesus” Here is a summary of the Bible in 221 words according to DA Carson. God is the sovereign, transcendent and personal God who has made the universe, including us, his image-bearers. Our - [Opening a New Chapter, a New Year, Under the Eternal Eyes of the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End ](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/30/opening-a-new-chapter-a-new-year-under-the-eternal-eyes-of-the-alpha-and-the-omega-the-beginning-and-the-end/) - I listened to the entire Bible on my iPhone this year—the NIV’s dramatized edition-- as I walked the country trails around Garsington, Oxfordshire. And the year dies spectacularly as one walks listening to Revelation—chilling, majestic, dramatic. His eyes were like blazing fire, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. And coming out of - [Choristers on May Morning, William Holman Hunt](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/choristers-on-may-morning-william-holman-hunt/) - Choristers at dawn on Magdalen Tower on May Morning--a tradition which still continues today! - [The Wisdom of Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/the-wisdom-of-irene-3/) - Irene, crooning to me, "Mummy, you're a mummy, and you'll always be a mummy, but I am an Irene, and one day I will be a mummy." Me, "Well, I'm not just a mummy." She, soothingly, "I know. You are a writer, a Mummy, and a chatterbox." - [The Wisdom of Roy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/the-wisdom-of-roy/) - Bailey's Irish Cream Haagen -Dazs Icecream for dessert today. Irene, "Why don't we have this more often? Can we not afford it?" Roy, " We can afford to buy it. We just can't afford to eat it." - [Our Family Dinner was Punctuated by These Cries](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/30/my-daughters/) - Somewhat like their mother, my girls use any new word or scrap of information in their conversation or writing within 24 hours (this is Roy's observation!). Dinner yesterday was punctuated by calls, "Mum and Dad, chastise Zoe!" "Mum and Dad, chastise Irene!" (Zoe adds that they said "chastise" because if they ask Roy to - [Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God, or First Things First](https://anitamathias.com/2010/05/01/seek-ye-first-the-kingdom-of-god-or-first-things-first/) - Roy & I talked last night about Jesus' exciting statement, "Seek FIRST the Kingdom of God and its righteousness, and all the rest will be added unto you." Like the rest of Jesus' sayings, one can only verify the truth of this by empirical evidence, by trying it. C.S. Lewis in a more contemporary - [ Hiding the Evidence of a Crime!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/30/the-wisdom-of-roy-2/) - I finally got fed up of waiting for Roy to do it and painted two rooms myself, in an amateurish way, staining my clothes, spilling paint, very uneven! But it was so satisfying. I was insufferably pleased with myself. Roy said, "Well, if THAT'S painting, why do people charge so much for it?" But there's no one - [In Which Teenager's Rooms are Like Rooms of Requirement](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/30/irenes-room/) - Zoe says Irene's room is like the Room of Requirement in Harry Potter. Whatever we needed and missed is to be found there--under her bed!! It can be like the Chamber of Horrors in Harry Potter, I say. And since we have a three day Bank Holiday weekend, guess what we are going to do! - [Jake, my Collie Dog](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/30/jake-my-collie-dog-4/) - Lovely run today with my collie Jake bounding beside me, his tail wagging with joy. We have much to learn from dogs: joy, love, forgiveness, living in the present, revelling in movement. I love seeing dogs leap & fly over the fields near our house, just delighted to be alive. C.S. Lewis amusingly declared - [Life is short & we have never too much time for gladdening the hearts of those we love](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/30/henri-frederic-amiel/) - "Oh, do not let us wait to be just or pitiful or demonstrative toward those we love until they or we are struck down by illness or threatened with death! Life is short and we have never too much time for gladdening the hearts of those who are traveling the dark journey with us. Oh, - [I didn't marry you for cleverer or stupider.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/29/the-wisdom-of-irene-4/) - I (successfully) tried to get the lean, muscular Roy to go to the gym with me. Exasperated, he said, "Anita, I married you for better or for worse, richer or poorer. I did not say "for stupider or cleverer." Irene listened with furrowed brows, then whispered, "Mummy, what does he mean? Who is getting - [Anita's Christmas Letter](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/24/anitas-christmas-letter-2014/) - The mosaic of Christ Pantocrator which we saw last week (Monreale Duomo, Sicily) Merry Christmas, dear readers, and here’s my short and sweet Christmas letter. 2013 was a full year, and a good one. We put 2012 to bed in Malta, which we loved. Neolithic temples, Crusader towns, and fabulous beaches. January Zoe was accepted - [Plucked, dazzling, from the eternal heavens into time... Luci Shaw, "One"](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/25/peace-to-men-and-women-of-good-will/) - http://www.abrahampiper.com/ One by Luci Shaw Winter, and very cold, and the night at its deepest. The politicians, as usual, double-tongued. The town chaotic, teeming with strangers. And tonight, as often in winter, in Bethlehem, snow is falling.I always love how each flake, torn from the sky, arrives separately, without sound, almost unnoticed in a flurry - [Prayer Revises the Plot](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/29/prayer-rewrites-the-plot/) - Revising the plot! When our lives seems to have run into the desert sands of barrenness, and we wonder if we've lost our way, constant prayer can bring a surprising plot reversal--beauty from ashes, streams in the desert--rescuing one from inexorable cause and effect; sin/weakness and its consequences. It can rewrite the direction and - [Irene's antics](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/29/irenes-antics/) - That hilarious little Irene sometimes follows Roy and me around with her laptop, recording our conversations, then playing them back to us. "Could some gift the giftie give us/ To hear ourselves as others hear us!" - [Magical beauty from a few seeds!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/29/magical-beauty-from-a-few-seeds/) - Last summer, the little patch of nasturtiums and sunflowers that Irene planted on a whim on Easter Sunday around our purple buddleia became the brightest spot in the garden. The sunflowers were huge and glorious. It's amazing how much beauty one can create with a few seeds! - [The Wisdom of Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/28/the-wisdom-of-irene-5/) - A relative gave us a surprise, a generous cash gift. I was very pleased, but once we safely invested it, I observed to Irene, "See, I told you money does not make one happy. We now have XX pounds, and are no happier than we were before." Irene, 10, "That's because you have not spent - [It was like God (Mary of Nazareth, by Clive Sansom)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/08/it-was-like-god-mary-of-nazareth-by-clive-sansom/) - Mary of Nazareth by Clive Sansom It was like music: Hovering and floating there With the sound of lutes and timbrels In the night air. It was like waves, Beating upon the shore: Insistent with a rhythm, a pulsing Unfelt before. It was like wind: Blowing from off the seas Of other, far other Lands - ["The Nativity" by C.S. Lewis](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/26/the-nativity-by-c-s-lewis/) - The Nativity by C.S. LewisAmong the oxen (like an ox I'm slow) I see a glory in the stable grow Which, with the ox's dullness might at length Give me an ox's strength. Among the asses (stubborn I as they) I see my Savior where I looked for hay; So may my beast like - [How Francois Mauriac mentored Elie Wiesel for the Love of Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/2011/06/17/how-francois-mauriac-mentored-elie-wiesel-for-the-love-of-jesus/) - Francois Mauriac Philip Yancey in What is so Amazing about Grace? recounts a lovely story about a meeting between Mauriac and Elie Wiesel. Mauriac was at that time France's most famous writer, and the greatest Roman Catholic writer of his century. Wiesel is networking. Using the old man for his connection, to inveigle an interview - [Irene and salad](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/27/irene-and-salad/) - Tried a salad recipe from a book I am reading with much interest and enjoyment--Helen Nearing's "Simple Food for the Good Life." It was lettuce and fresh dandelion leaves salad. Irene said, "MUM, I am so HUMILIATED! I am not a RABBIT. - [The Stunning Mosaics at Monreale Cathedral, Palermo, Sicily](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/23/monreale-duome-benedictine-cloister-near-palermo-sicily/) - A guest post written by my husband, Roy We had a peaceful afternoon exploring Monreale Cathedral and the adjacent 12th century Benedictine Cloister with its 200 twin columns each with intriguing individually carved capitols. Monreale Duomo is a 12th Century cathedral with some of the world's best mosaics. The mosaics are far more extensive than those - [Scripture--The Psalms as therapy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/scripture-the-psalms-as-therapy/) - A day of minor distraction, and perhaps a faint sense of not all being right with the world, and, of course, it isn't! Sometimes, I feel very aware of the presence of evil. Felt jangled and distracted inside. So, instead of writing, I settled down with the Psalms in my lovely new Bible, the ESV, - [In which Insults Turn to Praise](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/adopting-insults/) - I was watching Diarmaid Maccullough's Christian History documentary, in which he said that early Methodists had a very methodical way of going about their salvation--prayer, Bible reading, fasting, spiritual reading, and reading Scripture in the original languages--and so were called Methodists in mockery, a name which stuck. I thought of other insults, which through the - [Baisakhi in Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/baisakhi-in-oxford/) - As we were eating in window seats of the First Floor Restaurant in Oxford yesterday, we saw a very colourful Sikh procession pass. Irene was beside herself as she saw all the things she had learnt about in her unit on Sikhism. Men holding dashing kirpans (swords). Women with brilliant sarees and shalwars and long - [A Great Intelligence Runs Through Nature](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/nature-in-the-garden/) - Each gardening session leaves me amazed at nature's checks and balances. For instance, innocuous dead nettles look so much like the real thing, even with unpleasant prickles on their stems. And so are avoided by our pet bunnies. Yet they are harmless. A great intelligence appears to run through nature. - [The Mental Habit That’s Worth a Trillion Dollars ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/21/mental-habit-thats-worth-trillion-dollars/) - Grace and Forgiveness I heard Carol Arnott say that her book Grace and Forgiveness is worth a trillion dollars. Hyperbole, of course, but (Jesus, forgive this crassness!!) if I were to monetize it, learning and practising forgiveness would easily be worth well over £100,000, perhaps £500,000 in a lifetime. No, more! Speculative, of course, but that’s - [Images of the Magical Azure Window in Gozo, Malta. And I learn about God's Infinity Game](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/22/images-of-the-magical-azure-window-in-gozo-malta-and-i-learn-about-gods-infinity-game/) - And so I walk by the beach, which for me is holy ground near Malta's stupendous Azure Window. And I say, “Oh Lord, you speak to me so clearly by the ocean. You give me such good ideas. You pour insight and revelation into me. You have already done so this holiday. I can’t expect - [Family Life--The Mathiases Play Balderdash](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/family-life-balderdash/) - We played a family game of Balderdash yesterday. A bit like pictionary, pick a word, everyone gives a feigned definition while the picker gives a real one. 3 points for a correct guess, 1 if someone else guesses yours. After a slow start, Irene, 10, got the hang of dictionary sounding definitions. Scrivello, A antique - [Depression and exercise](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/depression-and-exercise/) - I remember a nice phrase in Andrew Solomon's book on depression, "The Noon Day Demon," which I first read in the New Yorker. That "exercise exorcised the depression from his body". That's exactly how it is with me. In a typical depressive pattern, I often wake up sluggish and with low mood, and gain in - [When Forgiveness Unleashes the River of Creativity](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/25/the-prophetic-at-st-aldates-oxford/) - About four years ago, I attended a prophetic training day at a large Anglican Charismatic Church in Oxford. I was taken aback when Rachel, the self-described “prophetess” leading it, asked us to give the person next to us “a word from God.” I do hear from God, all the time, in images and directives, but - [Writing by Relying on the Lord](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/writing-by-relying-on-the-lord/) - "Moses, "O Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." The LORD said to him, "Who gave man his mouth? Who makes him deaf or mute? Who gives him sight or makes him blind? Is it not I, - [This world's economic system, and the protection of being in Christ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/26/this-worlds-economic-system-and-the-protection-of-being-in-christ/) - I woke up thinking of a friend who was discouraged working hard to sell a hard-to-sell hugely over-priced product. A way out is moving from sales to management, but that might mean pressuring others to meet targets to sell the same product. Hard, this world's system. It suck you dry, as we used to suck - [A Walk Through University Parks, Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/25/university-parks-oxford-mesopotamia/) - Lovely family walk yesterday. (Okay, lovely after dragging out daughters who would rather read, do homework, or commune with their computers). We walked through the University Parks from Magdalen College to Norham Gardens where I used to live as a student at Oxford. It was a Bridehead Revisted set, complete with amusing poseurs with - [In Which I Decide to Forgive a Frenemy; For Nothing is as it Seems](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/16/nothing-is-as-it-seems-and-we-too-shall-be-changed/) - The snow fell over our Oxford garden and transformed it. I sometimes look at my garden, and think it’s getting rather scruffy, and resolve to get out with shears and secateurs come spring. But then snow falls, and the garden, a little bit overgrown, much in need of a prune, is transformed. White, magical, still - [George Macdonald, The Prayer of an Old Writer](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/24/george-macdonald-diary-of-an-old-soul/) - LORD, what I once had done with youthful might, Had I been from the first true to the truth, Grant me, now old, to do--with better sight, And humbler heart, if not the brain of youth; So wilt thou, in thy gentleness and ruth, Lead back thy old soul, by the path of pain, Round - [Wandering through a Deserted Garden in Sicily, I Pray to Build Things Which Last](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/18/bagheria/) - I like wandering around the deserted gardens which sometimes surround palaces and stately homes. I wandered through the Baroque Villa Palagonia in Bagheria Sicily yesterday, whose grounds host massive grotesque gnomes, giants, gargoyles, mutants, and anthropomorphized monsters. The villa was the home of Ferdinand, Prince of Palagonia, a hunchback, who took revenge on his wife’s - [In which Fritallaria Meleagris, or Snake's Head Fritillary tell me something of the goodness of God](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/24/fritallaria-meleagris-guinea-hen-flowers-snakes-head-fritillary/) - Spring in the garden. A rhapsody indeed. White Cherry blossoms. Daffodils! Cowslips. Flowering Judas tree. Forget-me-nots. Bright red tulips in my garden! And fritallaria. These were never easy for us to establish in Virginia, so it a joy to see how easily they spread here. We found a few wild ones in our paddock the - [God is love, one of deep affection and grace and forgiveness and inspiration](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/24/god-is-love-one-of-deep-affection-and-grace-and-forgiveness-and-inspiration/) - Reading an interview with Young, author of the self-published best-seller "The Shack," which I own, but have not read. "I really do believe that God is love, one of deep affection and grace and forgiveness and inspiration." A God of deep affection. Somehow that speaks to me more than a God of love, which - [In which Irene Comforts Me](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/24/irene-2/) - Irene, crooning to me, "Mummy, you're a mummy, and you'll always be a mummy, but I am an Irene, and one day I will be a mummy." Me, "Well, I'm not just a mummy." She, soothingly, "I know. You are a writer, a Mummy, and a chatterbox." - [In Malta, in the Bay where St. Paul was Shipwrecked](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/16/in-malta-in-the-bay-where-st-paul-was-shipwrecked/) - I am in Malta for a week. I walked by the bay where St Paul was shipwrecked and watched the enormous sky turn pink-streaked, red-puffed, crimson, colouring the waters of the bay which had been a glorious aquamarine a bright pink. The sky, the sea, they changed their aspects every minute. Surely the heavenly painter - [The Wit and Wisdom of Roy](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/24/the-wisdom-of-roy-3/) - I was reading an article by a younger friend, and was cross to come across a word I didn't know. (I am a vocabulary freak, who don't often come across words whose meanings i don't know, and when I do, I look them up immediately). Roy: "Don't worry. When people show off, there is one - [Flylady, Domesticity and Housework.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/23/flylady-domesticity-and-housework/) - Our cleaning lady from Zimbabwe is singing in rich, high voice as she cleans. She is singing worship songs; I believe I have heard the melodies before. She reminds me of Lena, our previous Brazilian cleaner who also sung as she worked. I love the sound of their singing. It has such a happy - [God's blessing: Good ideas](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/23/gods-blessing-good-ideas/) - An underrated aspect of God's blessing is that it often come through the mind, in the form of good ideas. And a form of prayer we often neglect is asking God for good ideas "inspiration" whether on how to tidy a house, write a book, or run a business. - [Sleep, Chronotherapy, Light Boxes, and Waking Early.](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/23/sleep-chronotherapy-light-boxes-and-waking-early/) - Hmm, interesting article from New York Times. I used to use lightboxes 13 years ago, and it worked. Then I forget to do it, then forgot how to do it. As happens with many things. (Faith, for instance, or prayer.) After reading this, I dug out my old lightboxes, started using them the moment I - [Living with Margins](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/22/living-with-margins/) - Around the time, we turned 40, we met our pastor for counselling, who told us that he had experienced a definite slow-down around the time, he turned 40, and had begun to build in margins. For instance, we took time off before and after every trip. We had never lived with margins. Crazy about - [In Which We Do not Hear the Cheers of our Invisible Audience ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/04/hear-cheers-invisible-audience/) - Image by Lize Rixt via stock.xchng When Beethoven’s Ode to Joy was first performed at the Theater am Karntnertor in Vienna in 1824, Beethoven conducting for tempo, had his back turned to the audience. There was a standing ovation, the audience tossed their hats into the air; the applause was thunderous, and the aging exhausted - [Prescription for Peace](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/22/prescription-for-peace/) - Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your - [Poetry: A Love Affair](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/poetry-a-love-affair/) - I loved poetry as a little girl and in school, adored it as a student in Oxford, and read dozens, perhaps hundreds, of volumes of poetry in graduate school, and for the two years after that. Then I started writing prose, and, as happens in many lives, stopped reading poetry, though I never encountered a - [We are changed as we think with gratitude, giving up unforgiveness and judgment](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/we-shall-be-changed/) - People can be changed so thoroughly that what you now are bares no resemblance to what you were. I have experienced this myself and seen it happen in others. There is a call in Romans to "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Renew, to make new, a new, young mind. Hey, who wouldn't - [Rhapsody on Learning](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/21/rhapsody-on-learning/) - I have a new hobby, something I really enjoy doing, which makes me feel fully alive, and that is learning. I love learning new things. I really feel I am springing to happy life during our Christian history course, for instance. When we travel, I love learning the history of the countries and cities we - [In Which I Learn to Return to the Quiet Land of Prayer when I am Stressed](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/08/at-the-still-point-of-the-turning-world-the-land-of-prayer/) - In 2003, Hurricane Isabel passed over Williamsburg, Virginia where I lived for 12 years. Kingsmill, our neighbourhood, was particularly badly hit—we had, well, hurricane force winds buffet us for nearly 12 hours. The lights went out. Trees crashed on the roof, and broke the girls’ newly built tree house and playhouse. The laptops failed; there - [ Walking around Oxford on a Dreamy Sunday Evening](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/oxford/) - Zoe and I enjoyed a walk around Oxford at dusk on Sunday. It's a funny place, all the colleges with their wooden doors, with an inset door half-open, offering a view of arches, doorways, secrets. It's a place that both beckons, entices, and shuts out. The ultimate of snobbiness in many ways. I noticed again - [How to be Blessed](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/sowing-blessings-to-receive-blessings/) - The Humming Bird in Nicaragua is an emblem of blessing. Blessing is what we all want, God's incredible multiplying, exponential blessing on our lives. And one way we get it is through the principles outlined in Scripture: give and you shall receive, sow and you shall reap. Being a blessing wherever we can be. - ["I will give you my joy, and no one will take it from you"](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/i-will-give-you-my-joy-and-no-one-will-take-it-from-you/) - Jesus's lovely promise in John. It is totally spectacular. On a grey, gloomy day as it is today in Oxford, England, we can remember that Jesus gives us his joy, and that nothing and no one--no circumstances can take it from us. By learning to forgive too, we can avail ourselves of some of this - [In which I Confront the Accuser of the Brethren, Or Divine Prozac for “Bad” Mummies ](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/07/in-which-i-repudiate-the-accuser-of-the-brethren-or-divine-prozac-for-bad-mummies/) - If the accuser of the brethren Has a favourite weapon, it is this: “Bad mummy.” Yeah, he's always coming up against me “You should have nursed longer, Eaten better when you were pregnant, Given them less sugar when they were little, Read more to them, and for longer, Kept their rooms tidier, Been - [John and Carol Arnott of "The Toronto Blessing," come to Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/20/john-and-carol-arnott-of-the-toronto-blessing-come-to-oxford/) - Zoe and Irene have had a three word theme song all their young lives, "I'M SO EXCITED!" Though generally excited by life myself, I find there are fewer and fewer things I am REALLY, really looking forward to. Here is a link to a week Roy and I are really, really looking forward to. International - [Images from our Trip to Pisa: The Leaning Tower, Duomo and Baptistery](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/08/pisa-leaning-tower-duomo-baptistery/) - The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page, Saint Augustine. A guest post from my husband Roy who loves the camera as much as I love words. (Though he's done the words too, in this case:-) The Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the symbols of Italy, and a - [On Travel and Copenhagen](https://anitamathias.com/2012/07/31/on-travel-and-copenagen/) - The Carlsberg Glyptotek (Art Museum) Saint Augustine. The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colours. And the people there see you - [Mary Shelley and Frankenstein](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/19/mary-shelley-and-frankenstein/) - Our family listened to Frankenstein on CD during our last week in France. Coincidentally, given the imminent explosion of the Eyjafjallajokull Volcano, Frankenstein was written during the "volcanic winter," of 1816, also known as The Poverty Year, or The Year There was no Summer. This year-round volcanic winter, caused by a reduction in temperature caused by - [Poem written by Percy Shelley to his wife, Mary Shelley, who was deeply depressed](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/19/poem-written-by-percy-shelley-to-mary-shelley-who-was-deeply-depressed/) - My dearest Mary, wherefore hast thou gone, And left me in this dreary world alone? Thy form is here indeed—a lovely one— But thou art fled, gone down a dreary road That leads to Sorrow’s most obscure abode. For thine own sake I cannot follow thee Do thou return for mine.From Shelley's Notebooks - [In which I am Surprised by the Revelation of Divine Love](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/06/anyway/) - When I look around my room, And my eye lights on mess, And my actual word count And writing goals Bear no resemblance, And my day is slipping away And I am barely writing You know what I think most often? He loves me anyway. * * * It’s been a long - [How to Get into the Zone of Writing or Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/05/getting-into-the-zone-of-writing-or-prayer/) - Mixed Flock of birds flying in a V Formation- Put together- ©Creative Commons I love writing and blogging: watching something shapely, and sometimes beautiful, emerge from a jumble of thoughts. But there are many times when I just don't feel like writing. My brain and spirit and fingers feel wooden. It is what Steven - [Faith like Stained Glass Windows](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/19/faith-like-stained-glass-windows-2/) - I visited the 13th century Gothic Cathedral of Reims, where Joan of Arc got the Dauphin crowned on the first day of our Easter holidays. The massive stained glass windows were dark and dusty from the outside, hardly seemed worth exploring with one of our children cathedral-resistant in a town of patisseries. But we stepped inside. - [Generalife in the Alhambra and Granada](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/05/generalife-in-the-alhambra-and-granada/) - A guest post by my husband, Roy Mathias Palacio de Generalife was the Nasrid rulers' summer palace. When asking for directions, do remember that the "G" is pronounced as an "H". Generalife is literally, "Architect's Garden". Approaching the palace, one passes through extensive formal gardens. As it was winter, we say only the evergreen hedges - [ Sanctification, Or The Weight of Glory ](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/05/sanctification-or-the-weight-of-glory/) - Image Credit Relentless pressure Turns mud, clay, coal, rock, And the bones of dead creatures Into diamonds and rubies, Jewels of this earth. Ah, and when we invite him in, The inexorable one, The tireless pursuer, There is the steady pressure, Of the weight of his glory Bearing down on our laziness, - [I am ultimately on the same side as all Christians](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/05/i-am-ultimately-on-the-same-side-as-all-christians/) - I generally try to avoid controversy, for two reasons. a) I got involved in a heated church controversy in my early days as a blogger, and the hatred and vituperation which came my way affected my sleep and my emotional health. It convinced me that I do not have the stomach for controversy. b) and - [Dreaming of Iceland](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/18/dreaming-of-iceland/) - I love the unearthly beauty of Iceland, its lunar landscapes. We had pretty much decided to go there last summer, then decided that Norway was higher up on our hit-list. Ireland is now top of the list (the kids' lobby, we've been there), then Denmark, then perhaps, Iceland! It would have been amazing to - [In Praise of Sundays](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/18/sundays/) - Having a Sunday of deep rest, with everyone peacefully doing their own things. Having a Sunday which is completely restful, does sharpen one's appetite for the work week, just as returns from travel makes one's home and home-life so much sweeter! - [There will be the Essence of Dogness in Heaven--C.S. Lewis](https://anitamathias.com/2010/12/04/the-essence-of-dogness-c-s-lewis/) - Jake, my collie, in a buttercup meadow. I would have immensely enjoyed hearing the feisty C.S. Lewis preach or lecture. He was a slave to the dog of Mrs. Moore (the mother of the soldier-friend who died in the First World War, whom he moved in with to “look after” as per his pact - [Redigging Ancient Wells](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/02/what-i-am-reading-now-and-redigging-ancient-wells/) - An artesian well The main thing that Isaac, whose name means laughter, did was re-dig the wells that his father, Abraham, had dug, and which his enemies had blocked out of envy, spite, insecurity, and orneriness. And once the wells were unblocked, he could settle down, and there was prosperity. I have blocked wells in - [Christ is a Miracle Himself (Philip Schaff, The Person of Christ)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/04/christ-from-philip-schaff-the-person-of-christ/) - From Philip Schaff, The Person of Christ "No biographer, moralist, or artist can be satisfied with any attempt of his to set forth the beauty of holiness which shines from the face of Jesus of Nazareth. It is felt to be infinitely greater than any conception or representation of it by the mind, the tongue, or - [Checks and balances in nature](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/18/checks-and-balances-in-nature/) - I love gardening partly because it plunges me into the world of nature, its checks and balances. I have been feeding our pet rabbits all sorts of things from our garden--weeds, shoots, leaves, apple branches, raspberry twigs, strawberry leaves and dandelions. Guess what they eat first. Yes, dandelions. That's good too as it prevents our - [Love Affair: My techie daughter, Irene!](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/18/love-affair-my-techie-daughter/) - An intense love affair has been unravelling in our household and before our eyes over the last few months. This is not Irene's first love affair--that was probably chess, or Microsoft Publisher, or Adobe Photoshop or Power Point--but it is an intense one. This affair is with her Ipod Touch. After months of resistance--could I - [When the Bible Makes You Want to Run Away... A Guest Post by Heather Caliri](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/03/bible-makes-want-run-away/) - This was going to be a pretty post about God singing back to us. Zephaniah 3:17 says: The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing. I - [Handel's Vision of Heaven and the Composition of the Messiah](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/03/handels-vision-of-heaven-and-the-composition-of-the-messiah/) - My father had trained and worked as a Chartered Accountant in England in the forties and early fifties. When he returned to India, he brought with him some precious possessions—among them LPs of Beethoven, Mozart….and Handel’s Messiah, conducted by Malcolm Sargent. He used to sit, rapt, listening to Mozart’s Fortieth Symphony or Beethoven’s Fifth. I - ["I will restore to you the years the locusts have eaten," Joel 2:25](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/17/i-will-restore-to-you-the-years-the-locusts-have-eaten-joel-225-2/) - I read, years ago, in a book on gardening about planting a herby lawn, a lawn with herbs interplanted with grass, so that as you walk they release their sweet fragrance. We did not succeed in establishing herbs in our lawn in Virginia, as our gardening skills were unequal to their scorching summers and freezing - [C.S. Lewis's Five Commonsensical Rules of Good Writing](https://anitamathias.com/2011/12/01/some-good-writing-tips-from-c-s-lewis/) - What really matters is:– 1. Always try to use the language so as to make quite clear what you mean and make sure your sentence couldn't mean anything else. 2. Always prefer the plain direct word to the long, vague one. Don'timplement promises, but keep them. 3. Never use abstract nouns when concrete ones will do. If you - [In which I Succumb to Family Games](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/17/family-games/) - We've used the last week of the Easter holidays to play lots of Family Games --Whist, Rummy, Go Fish and Cheat. Articulate and Taboo . Roy and I were together for the former and steam-rollered the children. To our astonishment, they won at Taboo. As I overheard Zoe tell Irene beforehand, "It will be okay, - [In which I Resolve to Wake Early](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/16/waking-early/) - I remember a talk by Jack Miller of World Harvest Mission which made fun of Samuel Johnson (Dr. Johnson's) resolutions to wake earlier. "I am resolved to wake at noon tomorrow. Though it be late, it is still earlier than the time I work today--which was noon" And so it goes, through the decades, going - [Being in the Wrong Place at the Right Time](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/16/being-in-the-wrong-place-at-the-right-time/) - Have you ever been in the wrong place at the right time? A place of loneliness with few real friends? A place of barrenness without energy to express the thoughts welling up within you? A place of sterility which yielded no inspiration or support for your creativity? A place of tears and stress when living - [Thoughts on the Puzzling Parable of the Ten Minas ](https://anitamathias.com/2012/12/01/thoughts-on-the-parable-of-the-ten-minas/) - Luke 19 11-271 God gives us almost infinite freedom. The master says, “Put this money to work until I come back.” How should the servants do that? They are not told. God leaves us free to choose how we use our gifts, like loving parents leave their children free to follow their own bliss and passions. It’s - [Listening to Isabel Allum in London. Chasing the Wild Goose of the Holy Spirit. Part II](https://anitamathias.com/2012/05/18/listening-to-isabel-allum-in-london-chasing-the-wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit-part-ii/) - Listening to a famous Charismatic "prophetess" in London - [In Which All Our Faith is Patchy, But Even That is Potent ](https://anitamathias.com/2013/12/01/faith-patchy-even-potent/) - Why are some people's prayers (for healing, for instance) answered, and not others? Is it to do with their faith? - [In which I Got the Precise House I Prayed for, and when I see better, I will remain content ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/16/being-content/) - When we were house-hunting in 2005, I made a list of 10 things I wanted in a house. Some of them were fantasies, pipedreams, improbabilities. A detached study, ponds, at least an acre of garden, and since we were in England, stone walls, rambling roses. A stream around the property. And being a Christian, I - [Garden of delight, April 16th](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/16/garden-of-delight/) - Well, we've been away for two weeks, and on our return did big household project, bookshelves, unpacking, decluttering. So I just enjoyed the paddock today during my run. The changes in the garden in the last three weeks are amazing. Queen Anne's Lace along the garden paths, cowslips, lots of daffodils, arum italicum, hellebores. Nature - [Family Dinner, Chez Mathias](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/15/family-cooking/) - We made a duck roast. Even as Roy was carving it, we were picking up delectable tidbits. Irene, "Don't gallop the roast." I," Do you mean gobble?" Irene, "No, I mean gallop". Zoe, who's doing GCSE history coursework says, "In Germany, at the time of Hitler, if you didn't like what was happening, you didn't - [Dick Woodward's Four Spiritual Secrets](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/15/dick-woodwards-four-spiritual-secrets/) - Our last day in Norway was blessed, and on a spiritual high. All of us listened to Dick Woodward's God-story, "The Four Spiritual Secrets" kindly given me by his daughter Virginia. Highly recommended and totally gripping. Dick has an engaging speaking style, just perfect for an audiobook. Dick is now a quadriplegic, paralyzed from - [Writing in the Cold by Ted Solotaroff, a Brilliant Essay on the Psychology of Writing](https://anitamathias.com/2013/11/28/writing-cold/) - “Writing in the Cold,” by Ted Solotaroff from The Pushcart Prize is absolutely the very best and most inspiring essay for late bloomer writers. It’s also the most insightful on the emotional and psychological struggles that are part of becoming a writer. I met Ted at the Squaw Valley Writers Conference in 1993, and he - [Prague: A magical city, ](https://anitamathias.com/2010/11/30/prague-a-magical-city-and-the-chance-for-250-off-the-park-inn-prague/) - Prague – a magical city – Guest post by Roy Mathias When we told our friends we were going to Prague they assured us that it would be amazing, fantastic, wonderful… and we were not disappointed. Here are a few of the highlights from this atmospheric compact city we enjoyed exploring on foot. The - [What Do You Really Want? (John 1:37)](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/28/what-do-you-want/) - Image Credit What do you want? John 1:37 And no-nonsense, getting down to business, the first thing you ask us, in this most beautiful of books. is a question. What do you want? I am today ashamed of the smallness of my desire. But I must be honest about it. Here it is. I - [A Famine of the Word of God](https://anitamathias.com/2011/11/28/a-famine-of-the-word-of-god/) - Sweeter than honey; stronger than a lion (Image credit) 11 “The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign LORD, “when I will send a famine through the land— not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD. 12 People will stagger from sea to sea and wander - [In which Irene Invents GarlicBreadMen](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/14/how-inventions-happen/) - Irene made the most beautifully shaped gingerbread men. Funny thing though, they smelled and tasted of GARLIC. “Irene, did you not wash the spoons and chopping board before using them?” “I did.” Dreadful thought. “Show me the puree you used.” “Dad squeezed it for me.” Fatal words. I looked at the tube. Intense garlic puree! - [Family Life/ Parenting Irene](https://anitamathias.com/2010/04/13/family-lifeirene/) - Irene, “ Mum, did you know that I stayed up till 4 a.m. yesterday, reading all the library books we borrowed.” Me, “Yes.” She, “HOW did you know?” “Because I stayed up, doing the same thing.” Though undoubtedly, my reading, an A.S. Byatt novel, and a book on business was less compelling than hers. - [The Clothes Pin by Jane Kenyon](https://anitamathias.com/2010/02/15/the-clothes-pin-by-jane-kenyon/) - The Clothes Pin How much better it is to carry wood to the fire than to moan about your life. How much better to throw the garbage onto the compost, or to pin the clean sheet on the line, With a gray-brown wooden clothes pin ## Pages - [About Me](https://anitamathias.com/about-me/) - Hi there, I’m Anita Mathias. I currently live in beautiful Oxford, England, my favourite place in the world, though I have lived, for a roughly equal amount of time, in three countries–India, the United States, and England. I’ve written four books! My most recent is a memoir, Rosaries, Reading, Secrets ( Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk) of which I - [Books](https://anitamathias.com/books/) - My Books Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India (on Amazon.com, on Amazon.co.uk) Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India is a lyrical account of Anita Mathias’s turbulent Roman Catholic childhood in India. Mathias grew up in Jamshedpur, “The Steel City,” a company town benevolently run by the Zoroastrians of Tata Steel. The Catholic church, - [Meditations](https://anitamathias.com/meditations/) - Christian Meditation with Anita Mathias If you’d like to read my previous recorded meditations, here they are 19 The Silver Coin in the Mouth of a Fish. Never Underestimate God! 18 Following Jesus is Costly and the Very Best Thing We Can Do 17 Persistent Prayer Turns Christ’s Silence, His “No,” and “Absolutely Not” to - [Cookie Policy](https://anitamathias.com/cookie-policy-uk/) - Use of Cookies Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer by websites that you visit. To learn more about cookies, you can visit www.allaboutcookies.org. You will also find details on how to block and delete cookies from your computer as well as more general information about cookies. For information on how - [The Holy Ground of Kalighat](https://anitamathias.com/the-holy-ground-of-kalighat/) - The Holy Ground of Kalighat by Anita Mathias Kalighat, the Home of the Dying Destitute, was the toughest assignment in the Missionaries of Charity convent, reputedly reserved for the mature. But I was greedy for challenge and kept asking for it until I got it. The place glowed in the light of literature, the - [White Elephants](https://anitamathias.com/white-elephants/) - (by Anita Mathias.) In Bombay, goondas speed up to auto-rickshaws, then lean over to yank dangling earrings. If the ear rips, it rips. Never wear jewelry in Bombay: This Sindhi, in the latest Blitz, laid her arm, glittering with gold bangles, on the open window of her car. Men with machetes drove beside her on a dark road, then sped - [The First Thing in the Morning](https://anitamathias.com/first-thing-morning/) - (By Anita Mathias. This was published in The Style Page, The Washington Post, 16th September, 1997. © Anita Mathias) Exercise first thing in the morning, my fitness instructor says. The discipline will spill over to the rest of the day. It jump-starts your metabolism, so that you burn more calories, whether you read or cook or nap. - [Learning to Pray](https://anitamathias.com/learning-pray/) - Prayer, we read, write, talk and agonize about it, resolve to do it, wish we’d done it more than we actually do it. In this it resembles other pursuits of which people overestimate the intensity, frequency and duration -- such as reading, writing and sex. Prayer is archaic, anachronistic, against the grain of modern life, - [I Was a Teen-age Atheist ](https://anitamathias.com/teen-age-atheist/) - (Commonweal, Oct 8, 1999 by Anita Mathias) Flames leaped into the horizon. My parents, my sister, Shalini, and I abandoned our dinner to race up to the terrace and watch the blaze. It was Holi, the Hindu spring festival, an explosion of mischief celebrating the god Krishna's shenanigans with the cowgirls. Flung water balloons gushed vermilion; - [“Aliens and Strangers”](https://anitamathias.com/aliens-strangers/) - I have an idea that some men are born out of their due place. Accident has cast them amid strangers in their birthplace, and the leafy lanes they may have known from childhood remain but a place of passage. They may spend their whole lives aliens among their kindred and remain aloof among the only - [GDPR - Data Privacy](https://anitamathias.com/privacy/) - Briefly The only personal data we hold is your email and your name/screen name (as supplied by you if choose to subscribe/comment). Your email never displayed on our website. We use this only to send you email updates if you have subscribed. You may unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at - [Contact](https://anitamathias.com/contact-2/) - To get in touch, you can: Email me at anita@anitamathias.com On Twitter, I'm @AnitaMathias1. On Facebook, visit my Dreaming Beneath The Spires Facebook Page. - [Advertise on Dreaming Beneath The Spires](https://anitamathias.com/advertise/) - I am opening up my blog to advertising to help defray some of the expenses of running this site. As of January 2014, my blog, Dreaming Beneath the Spires, received 9726 unique monthly visitors, and 18572 page views (according to Google Analytics). It attracts an audience of committed Christians, who love to read, think and - [The Christian Books Which Have Most Influenced Me](https://anitamathias.com/favourite-books-2/) - Christian Books Which Have Most Influenced Me (with links to the book on Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk) General The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. (Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk) Something More, by Catherine Marshall. (Amazon.com , Amazon.co.uk) Beyond Ourselves, by Catherine Marshall. (Amazon.com , Amazon.co.uk ) The Cross and the Switchblade, by David Wilkerson. (Amazon.com , Amazon.co.uk ) I Will Lift up Mine Eyes, by Glenn Clark. (Amazon.com , Amazon.co.uk ) Celebration - [Essays](https://anitamathias.com/essays/) - Some published essays: The First Thing in the Morning (Published in the Style page of The Washington Post.) Holy Ground (Notre Dame Magazine, reprinted in The Best Spiritual Writing, 1999, HarperSanFrancisco, Faith.com, and ChristianGateway.com.) I was a Teenage Atheist (Commonweal, October 8, 1999, reprinted in The Best Spiritual Writing, 2000, HarperSanFrancisco) Aliens and Strangers (Southwest Review, - [The Holy Ground of Kalighat](https://anitamathias.com/holy-ground-kalighat/) - Kalighat, the Home of the Dying Destitute, was the toughest assignment in the Missionaries of Charity convent, reputedly reserved for the mature. But I was greedy for challenge and kept asking for it until I got it. The place glowed in the light of literature, the poetic accounts of Malcolm Muggeridge, Desmond Doig, and Edward - [My Memoir](https://anitamathias.com/my-memoir/) - I am writing a memoir and posting it on my blog. Here are the posts in the order written. Enjoy! My Grandmother, Small Nana, Molly Coelho My Uncle Eustace: The Maharaja My Uncle Mervyn My Grandfather who lived by the Sea and Taught me to Love Poetry My Maiden Aunt, Joyce Youpee, or UP: My - [Blogger](https://anitamathias.com/blogger/) ## Categories - [random](https://anitamathias.com/category/anitas-essays/) - [Genesis](https://anitamathias.com/category/genesis/) - [In which I bow my knee in praise and worship](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-bow-my-knee-in-praise-and-worship/) - [In which I celebrate discipline](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-discipline/) - [In which I celebrate friendship and relationships](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-friendship-and-relationships/) - [In which I decide to follow Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-decide-to-follow-jesus/) - [In which I dream in my garden](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-dream-in-my-garden/) - [In which I explore Living as a Christian](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-living-as-a-christian/) - [In which I explore Productivity and Time Management and Life Management](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-productivity-and-time-management-and-life-management/) - [In which I pursue happiness and the bluebird of joy](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/) - [Mark](https://anitamathias.com/category/mark/) - [Matthew](https://anitamathias.com/category/matthew/) - [Old Testament Prophets](https://anitamathias.com/category/old-testament-prophets/) - [Psalms](https://anitamathias.com/category/psalms/) - [Writing and Blogging](https://anitamathias.com/category/writing-and-blogging/) - [In Which I am again Amazed by Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-am-again-amazed-by-jesus/) - [In which I am Amazed by Grace](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-am-amazed-by-grace/) - [In which I Spot God in Nature](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-am-amazed-by-the-glory-of-god-esp-in-nature/) - [In which I am amazed by the love of the Father](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-am-amazed-by-the-love-of-the-father/) - [In which I celebrate books and film and art](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-books-and-film/) - [In which I chase the wild goose of the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-chase-the-wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit/) - [In Which I Count my Blessings](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-count-my-blessings/) - [In which I explore Spiritual Disciplines](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-spiritual-disciplines/) - [In which I explore the Spiritual Life](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-the-spiritual-life/) - [In which I explore this world called Church](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-this-world-called-church/) - [In which I explore writing and blogging and creativity](https://anitamathias.com/category/writing-and-blogging/in-which-i-explore-writing-and-blogging-and-creativity/) - [In which I forgive Aught against Any (Sigh)](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-forgive-aught-against-any-sigh/) - [In which I get serious about health and diet and fitness and exercise (really)](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-get-serious-about-health-and-diet-and-fitness-and-exercise-really/) - [In which I play in the fields of poetry](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-play-in-the-fields-of-poetry/) - [In which I play in the fields of Scripture](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-play-in-the-fields-of-scripture/) - [In which I play in the fields of Theology](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-play-in-the-fields-of-theology/) - [In which I proudly introduce my guest posters](https://anitamathias.com/category/writing-and-blogging/in-which-i-proudly-introduce-my-guest-posters/) - [In which I Pursue Personal Transformation or Sanctification](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-personal-transformation-or-sanctification/) - [In which I resolve to live by faith](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-resolve-to-live-by-faith/) - [In which I resolve to live my life slowly](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/in-which-i-resolve-to-live-my-life-slowly/) - [In which I shyly share my essays and poetry](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-shyly-share-my-essays-and-poetry/) - [In which I Travel and Dream](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-travel-and-dream/) - [In which I stroll through the Liturgical Year](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-troll-through-the-liturgical-year/) - [In which I try to discern the Voice and Will of God](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-try-to-discern-the-voice-and-will-of-god/) - [In which I'm amazed by the goodness of God](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-im-amazed-by-the-goodness-of-god/) - [Praise the Lord, Anyway](https://anitamathias.com/category/ptla/) - [The peace that transcends understanding](https://anitamathias.com/category/the-peace-that-transcends-understanding/) - [Field notes from the Land of Suffering](https://anitamathias.com/category/field-notes-from-the-land-of-suffering/) - [In Which I celebrate Church History and Great Christians](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-church-history-and-great-christians/) - [In which I Dream Beneath the Spires of Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-dream-beneath-the-spires-of-oxford/) - [In which I just keep Trusting the Lord](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-resolve-to-live-by-faith/in-which-i-just-keep-trusting-the-lord/) - [In which I play in the fields of prayer](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-play-in-the-fields-of-prayer/) - [In Which my Blog Morphs into Memoir and Gets Personal](https://anitamathias.com/category/writing-and-blogging/in-which-my-blog-morphs-into-memoir-and-gets-personal/) - [In which I surrender all](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-the-spiritual-life/in-which-i-surrender-all/) - [Finding God in Domesticity](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/finding-god-in-domesticity/) - [Marriage and parenting](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-friendship-and-relationships/marriage-and-parenting/) - [John](https://anitamathias.com/category/john/) - [Family Life](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-friendship-and-relationships/family-life/) - [In which I celebrate rest](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/in-which-i-celebrate-rest/) - [Blessing](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-the-spiritual-life/blessing-in-which-i-explore-the-spiritual-life/) - [simple pleasures](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-pursue-happiness-and-the-bluebird-of-joy/simple-pleasures/) - [The Power of Gratitude](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-explore-the-spiritual-life/the-power-of-gratitude/) - [In which I dabble in prophecy and the prophetic](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-chase-the-wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit/in-which-i-dabble-in-prophecy-and-the-prophetic/) - [Social media](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-celebrate-friendship-and-relationships/social-media/) - [In which the Gospel is Good News](https://anitamathias.com/category/in-which-i-play-in-the-fields-of-theology/in-which-the-gospel-is-good-news/) - 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Lewis](https://anitamathias.com/tag/c-s-lewis/) - [Campus Crusade for Christ](https://anitamathias.com/tag/campus-crusade-for-christ/) - [Carol Arnott](https://anitamathias.com/tag/carol-arnott/) - [change](https://anitamathias.com/tag/change-2/) - [Charismatics](https://anitamathias.com/tag/charismatics/) - [Charles Lamb](https://anitamathias.com/tag/charles-lamb/) - [choosing books](https://anitamathias.com/tag/choosing-books/) - [choosing our destiny](https://anitamathias.com/tag/choosing-our-destiny/) - [Christ walking beside us](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christ-walking-beside-us/) - [Christian blogging](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-blogging/) - [church](https://anitamathias.com/tag/church-2/) - [church attendance](https://anitamathias.com/tag/church-attendance/) - [Civil Rights](https://anitamathias.com/tag/civil-rights/) - [Classical Music](https://anitamathias.com/tag/classical-music/) - [comfort in afflictions](https://anitamathias.com/tag/comfort-in-afflictions/) - 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[deliverance](https://anitamathias.com/tag/deliverance/) - [Denmark](https://anitamathias.com/tag/denmark/) - [desmond tutu](https://anitamathias.com/tag/desmond-tutu/) - [Diana Trautwein](https://anitamathias.com/tag/diana-trautwein/) - [diet](https://anitamathias.com/tag/diet/) - [discernment](https://anitamathias.com/tag/discernment/) - [discipleship](https://anitamathias.com/tag/discipleship/) - [discipline](https://anitamathias.com/tag/discipline/) - [Dishonest Steward](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dishonest-steward/) - [divine justice](https://anitamathias.com/tag/divine-justice/) - [Do not be afraid](https://anitamathias.com/tag/do-not-be-afraid/) - [Do not judge](https://anitamathias.com/tag/do-not-judge/) - [domesticity](https://anitamathias.com/tag/domesticity-2/) - [Donald MIller](https://anitamathias.com/tag/donald-miller/) - [Dostoevsky](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dostoevsky/) - [doubt](https://anitamathias.com/tag/doubt/) - [DRC](https://anitamathias.com/tag/drc/) - [Dreaming Beneath the Spires](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dreaming-beneath-the-spires/) - 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Eliot](https://anitamathias.com/tag/t-s-eliot/) - [taking Jesus at his word](https://anitamathias.com/tag/taking-jesus-at-his-word/) - [Tearfund](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tearfund/) - [Terrence Malick](https://anitamathias.com/tag/terrence-malick/) - [thankfulness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/thankfulness/) - [the angel of writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-angel-of-writing/) - [The Apostle Paul](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-apostle-paul/) - [the best that has been thought and said](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-best-that-has-been-thought-and-said/) - [The Cross](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-cross/) - [the fatherhood of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-fatherhood-of-god/) - [the friend of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-friend-of-god/) - [the goodness of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-goodness-of-god/) - [the grace of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-grace-of-god/) - [The Hobbit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-hobbit/) - [the justice of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-justice-of-god/) - [The King's Speech](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-kings-speech/) - [The Lord's Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-lords-prayer/) - [The love of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-love-of-god-2/) - [the meek shall inherit the earth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-meek-shall-inherit-the-earth/) - [The Moor](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-moor/) - [The past](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-past/) - [the pearl of great price](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-pearl-of-great-price/) - [The power of praise](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-power-of-praise/) - [the power of prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-power-of-prayer/) - [The prayer of brokenness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-prayer-of-brokenness/) - [the revelation of divine love](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-revelation-of-divine-love/) - [the Samaritan woman](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-samaritan-woman/) - [the secret of living](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-secret-of-living/) - [The secret rhoda byrne](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-secret-rhoda-byrne/) - [the tower of Babel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-tower-of-babel/) - [The Tree of Life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-tree-of-life/) - [the voice of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-voice-of-god/) - [The War of Art](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-war-of-art/) - [The Way of the Pilgrim](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-way-of-the-pilgrim/) - [the word of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-word-of-god/) - [Theoldicy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/theoldicy/) - [theologians](https://anitamathias.com/tag/theologians/) - [theology](https://anitamathias.com/tag/theology-2/) - [Theophany](https://anitamathias.com/tag/theophany/) - [THERE IS ALWAYS ENOUGH](https://anitamathias.com/tag/there-is-always-enough/) - [Thin Places](https://anitamathias.com/tag/thin-places/) - [TIme Management](https://anitamathias.com/tag/time-management/) - [tithe](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tithe/) - [Tolkein](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tolkein/) - [Toronto Blessing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/toronto-blessing/) - [transformation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/transformation/) - [trolls](https://anitamathias.com/tag/trolls/) - [trusting](https://anitamathias.com/tag/trusting/) - [trusting God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/trusting-god/) - [tuscany](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tuscany/) - [Twitter](https://anitamathias.com/tag/twitter/) - [university parks](https://anitamathias.com/tag/university-parks/) - [vaughan Roberts](https://anitamathias.com/tag/vaughan-roberts/) - [Veganism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/veganism/) - [venting](https://anitamathias.com/tag/venting/) - [virginia woolf](https://anitamathias.com/tag/virginia-woolf/) - [VISION](https://anitamathias.com/tag/vision/) - [Visionaries](https://anitamathias.com/tag/visionaries/) - [visualization](https://anitamathias.com/tag/visualization/) - [vocation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/vocation/) - [waking early](https://anitamathias.com/tag/waking-early/) - [walkiing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walkiing/) - [walking](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walking/) - [walking in the light](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walking-in-the-light/) - [Walter Brueggemann](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walter-brueggemann/) - [water](https://anitamathias.com/tag/water/) - [Wayne and Irene Negrini](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wayne-and-irene-negrini/) - [weight loss](https://anitamathias.com/tag/weight-loss-2/) - [weight of glory](https://anitamathias.com/tag/weight-of-glory/) - [welsh revival](https://anitamathias.com/tag/welsh-revival/) - [welsh revival 2013](https://anitamathias.com/tag/welsh-revival-2013/) - [white dog and black dog](https://anitamathias.com/tag/white-dog-and-black-dog/) - [wild goose](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wild-goose/) - [Wild Goose of the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit/) - [William Faulkner](https://anitamathias.com/tag/william-faulkner/) - [William Stafford](https://anitamathias.com/tag/william-stafford/) - [Williamsburg Virginia](https://anitamathias.com/tag/williamsburg-virginia/) - [wisdom](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wisdom/) - [wisley](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wisley/) - [words as pearls](https://anitamathias.com/tag/words-as-pearls/) - [worship](https://anitamathias.com/tag/worship-2/) - [writers' block](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writers-block-2/) - [writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writing-2/) - [yeast](https://anitamathias.com/tag/yeast/) - [Lucca](https://anitamathias.com/tag/lucca/) - [Pilgrimages](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pilgrimages/) - [Walks](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walks/) - [time](https://anitamathias.com/tag/time-2/) - [spending](https://anitamathias.com/tag/spending/) - [wasting](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wasting/) - [losing your life to find it](https://anitamathias.com/tag/losing-your-life-to-find-it/) - [Meditations on failure](https://anitamathias.com/tag/meditations-on-failure/) - [Peter](https://anitamathias.com/tag/peter/) - [vessels of clay](https://anitamathias.com/tag/vessels-of-clay/) - [Angels unawares](https://anitamathias.com/tag/angels-unawares/) - [protection from enemies](https://anitamathias.com/tag/protection-from-enemies/) - [blessing of Abraham](https://anitamathias.com/tag/blessing-of-abraham/) - [protection](https://anitamathias.com/tag/protection/) - [Laban](https://anitamathias.com/tag/laban/) - [Elisha](https://anitamathias.com/tag/elisha/) - [Humility](https://anitamathias.com/tag/humility/) - [kindness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/kindness/) - [intelligence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/intelligence/) - [Prayer circles](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prayer-circles/) - [Mark Batterson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/mark-batterson/) - [God's love](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gods-love/) - [Christian Writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-writing/) - [Ole Hallesby](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ole-hallesby/) - [Frederick Buechner](https://anitamathias.com/tag/frederick-buechner/) - [Christian business](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-business/) - [Meek](https://anitamathias.com/tag/meek/) - [Meekness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/meekness/) - [gentleness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gentleness/) - [vicious circles](https://anitamathias.com/tag/vicious-circles/) - [virtuous circles](https://anitamathias.com/tag/virtuous-circles/) - [order and tidying](https://anitamathias.com/tag/order-and-tidying/) - [circle maker](https://anitamathias.com/tag/circle-maker/) - [charles duehigg](https://anitamathias.com/tag/charles-duehigg/) - [the power of habit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-power-of-habit/) - [changing habits](https://anitamathias.com/tag/changing-habits/) - [tranformation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tranformation/) - [Jacob wrestling with angel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jacob-wrestling-with-angel/) - [The Father's Voice](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-fathers-voice/) - [Rachel Allord](https://anitamathias.com/tag/rachel-allord/) - [publication](https://anitamathias.com/tag/publication/) - [the writer's life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-writers-life/) - [adoption](https://anitamathias.com/tag/adoption/) - [legalism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/legalism/) - [Sabbath](https://anitamathias.com/tag/sabbath/) - [Living intentionally](https://anitamathias.com/tag/living-intentionally/) - [TV](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tv/) - [reality shows](https://anitamathias.com/tag/reality-shows/) - [Intimacy with God. mercy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/intimacy-with-god-mercy/) - [Creativity and God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/creativity-and-god/) - [family and friends](https://anitamathias.com/tag/family-and-friends/) - [mental wealth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/mental-wealth/) - [organization and tidiness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/organization-and-tidiness/) - [long walks](https://anitamathias.com/tag/long-walks/) - [habits](https://anitamathias.com/tag/habits/) - [Roy Godwin](https://anitamathias.com/tag/roy-godwin/) - [Grace Outpouring](https://anitamathias.com/tag/grace-outpouring/) - [The will of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-will-of-god-2/) - [Joseph](https://anitamathias.com/tag/joseph/) - [gender roles](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gender-roles/) - [John Eldredge](https://anitamathias.com/tag/john-eldredge/) - [Christ on gender roles](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christ-on-gender-roles/) - [relationship with God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/relationship-with-god/) - [San Gimignano](https://anitamathias.com/tag/san-gimignano/) - [Italy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/italy/) - [Finances](https://anitamathias.com/tag/finances/) - [Haruki Murakami](https://anitamathias.com/tag/haruki-murakami/) - [What I talk about when I talk about running](https://anitamathias.com/tag/what-i-talk-about-when-i-talk-about-running/) - [The Picture of Dorian Gray](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-picture-of-dorian-gray/) - [physiognomy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/physiognomy/) - [Thinking young and flexibly](https://anitamathias.com/tag/thinking-young-and-flexibly/) - [Jan Hus](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jan-hus/) - [Czech Reformer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/czech-reformer/) - [The Poisonwood Bible](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-poisonwood-bible/) - [Benedictine Ora et Labora](https://anitamathias.com/tag/benedictine-ora-et-labora/) - [manual work](https://anitamathias.com/tag/manual-work/) - [balance](https://anitamathias.com/tag/balance/) - [Spark](https://anitamathias.com/tag/spark/) - [holley gerth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/holley-gerth/) - [Carolyn Weber](https://anitamathias.com/tag/carolyn-weber/) - [Holy is the Day](https://anitamathias.com/tag/holy-is-the-day/) - [Surprised by Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/tag/surprised-by-oxford/) - [The Gospel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-gospel/) - [Don Camillo](https://anitamathias.com/tag/don-camillo/) - [Giovanni Guareschi](https://anitamathias.com/tag/giovanni-guareschi/) - [Guest Post](https://anitamathias.com/tag/guest-post/) - [Old Testament](https://anitamathias.com/tag/old-testament/) - [Treasure](https://anitamathias.com/tag/treasure/) - [Milton](https://anitamathias.com/tag/milton/) - [Viktor Frankl](https://anitamathias.com/tag/viktor-frankl/) - [Parenting](https://anitamathias.com/tag/parenting/) - [pruning](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pruning/) - [the work God has given us to do](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-work-god-has-given-us-to-do/) - [Gospel of John](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gospel-of-john/) - [Pisa](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pisa/) - [Baptistery](https://anitamathias.com/tag/baptistery/) - [Duomo](https://anitamathias.com/tag/duomo/) - [Adam Grant](https://anitamathias.com/tag/adam-grant/) - [Give and Take](https://anitamathias.com/tag/give-and-take/) - [Ideas as Cats](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ideas-as-cats/) - [Ray Bradbury](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ray-bradbury/) - [Zen in the Art of Writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/zen-in-the-art-of-writing/) - [Downward mobility](https://anitamathias.com/tag/downward-mobility/) - [Life in the slow lane](https://anitamathias.com/tag/life-in-the-slow-lane/) - [Little Women](https://anitamathias.com/tag/little-women/) - [What Katy Did](https://anitamathias.com/tag/what-katy-did/) - [Five Little Peppers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/five-little-peppers/) - [Pilgrim's Progress](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pilgrims-progress/) - [The Gospel of John](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-gospel-of-john/) - ["A Way of Writing"](https://anitamathias.com/tag/a-way-of-writing/) - [C. S. Lewis. Following Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/tag/c-s-lewis-following-jesus/) - [Secrecy in the spiritual life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/secrecy-in-the-spiritual-life/) - [Christian celebrity](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-celebrity/) - [Producivity](https://anitamathias.com/tag/producivity/) - [Exodus](https://anitamathias.com/tag/exodus/) - [Moses](https://anitamathias.com/tag/moses/) - [Promised Land](https://anitamathias.com/tag/promised-land/) - [Marriage and Family Life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/marriage-and-family-life/) - [housekeeping](https://anitamathias.com/tag/housekeeping/) - [US Politics](https://anitamathias.com/tag/us-politics/) - [Church History](https://anitamathias.com/tag/church-history/) - [Hudson Taylor](https://anitamathias.com/tag/hudson-taylor/) - [Secrets](https://anitamathias.com/tag/secrets/) - [Te Deum](https://anitamathias.com/tag/te-deum/) - [St John Lateran](https://anitamathias.com/tag/st-john-lateran/) - [Rome](https://anitamathias.com/tag/rome/) - [Psalm 23](https://anitamathias.com/tag/psalm-23/) - [Surrendering in the areas of our competence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/surrendering-in-the-areas-of-our-competence/) - [How to be a public figure](https://anitamathias.com/tag/how-to-be-a-public-figure/) - [Physical Fitness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/physical-fitness/) - [the importance of being stretched](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-importance-of-being-stretched/) - [the multiplication anointing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-multiplication-anointing/) - [love looks like something](https://anitamathias.com/tag/love-looks-like-something/) - [faith and joy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/faith-and-joy/) - [Dick Woodward](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dick-woodward/) - [Four Spiritual Secrets](https://anitamathias.com/tag/four-spiritual-secrets/) - [The Power of Helplessness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-power-of-helplessness/) - [Baudelaire on living with gusto](https://anitamathias.com/tag/baudelaire-on-living-with-gusto/) - [annunciation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/annunciation/) - [The Mother of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-mother-of-god/) - [Yeat](https://anitamathias.com/tag/yeat/) - [Thanksgiving](https://anitamathias.com/tag/thanksgiving/) - [Reznikoff](https://anitamathias.com/tag/reznikoff/) - [Writing in the Cold](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writing-in-the-cold/) - [Ted Solotaroff](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ted-solotaroff/) - [late bloomer writers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/late-bloomer-writers/) - [Zoe](https://anitamathias.com/tag/zoe/) - [Ambition and Following Christ](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ambition-and-following-christ/) - [Isabel Allum](https://anitamathias.com/tag/isabel-allum/) - [John Arnott](https://anitamathias.com/tag/john-arnott/) - [Bill Johnson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/bill-johnson/) - [Catch the Fire Toronto](https://anitamathias.com/tag/catch-the-fire-toronto/) - [School of Ministry](https://anitamathias.com/tag/school-of-ministry/) - [the Prophetic](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-prophetic/) - [the Kingdom](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-kingdom/) - [prayer in tongues](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prayer-in-tongues/) - [Steve Pavlina](https://anitamathias.com/tag/steve-pavlina/) - [Family Games](https://anitamathias.com/tag/family-games/) - [Advent Calendar by Rowan Williams](https://anitamathias.com/tag/advent-calendar-by-rowan-williams/) - [C. S. Lewis rules of good writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/c-s-lewis-rules-of-good-writing/) - [Heather Caliri](https://anitamathias.com/tag/heather-caliri/) - [Zephaniah](https://anitamathias.com/tag/zephaniah/) - [darkness in the Bible](https://anitamathias.com/tag/darkness-in-the-bible/) - [God sings over us](https://anitamathias.com/tag/god-sings-over-us/) - [the law of multiplication](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-law-of-multiplication/) - [Amazing Grace](https://anitamathias.com/tag/amazing-grace/) - [Messiah](https://anitamathias.com/tag/messiah/) - [Handel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/handel/) - [art proceeding from vision](https://anitamathias.com/tag/art-proceeding-from-vision/) - [Love your reader](https://anitamathias.com/tag/love-your-reader/) - [grace and law](https://anitamathias.com/tag/grace-and-law/) - [writing advice](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writing-advice/) - [Ipod touch](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ipod-touch/) - [pet rabbits](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pet-rabbits/) - [checks and balances in nature](https://anitamathias.com/tag/checks-and-balances-in-nature/) - [Jesus Christ](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jesus-christ/) - [Philip Schaff The Person of Jesus](https://anitamathias.com/tag/philip-schaff-the-person-of-jesus/) - [redigging old wells](https://anitamathias.com/tag/redigging-old-wells/) - [restoring ancient enthusiasms](https://anitamathias.com/tag/restoring-ancient-enthusiasms/) - [Beethoven](https://anitamathias.com/tag/beethoven/) - [Ode to Joy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ode-to-joy/) - [Our invisible audience](https://anitamathias.com/tag/our-invisible-audience/) - [audience of one](https://anitamathias.com/tag/audience-of-one/) - [Wordsworth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wordsworth/) - [Pets in Heaven](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pets-in-heaven/) - [The essence of dogness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-essence-of-dogness/) - [Iceland](https://anitamathias.com/tag/iceland/) - [Granada Spain](https://anitamathias.com/tag/granada-spain/) - [Generalife](https://anitamathias.com/tag/generalife/) - [Alhambra](https://anitamathias.com/tag/alhambra/) - [Dunes du Pyla](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dunes-du-pyla/) - [Bordeaux](https://anitamathias.com/tag/bordeaux/) - [Reims](https://anitamathias.com/tag/reims/) - [art springs from love](https://anitamathias.com/tag/art-springs-from-love/) - [Joan of Arc](https://anitamathias.com/tag/joan-of-arc/) - [eucharisteo](https://anitamathias.com/tag/eucharisteo/) - [Depression](https://anitamathias.com/tag/depression/) - [Percy Shelly](https://anitamathias.com/tag/percy-shelly/) - [Mary Shelley](https://anitamathias.com/tag/mary-shelley/) - [Frankenstein](https://anitamathias.com/tag/frankenstein/) - [Being blessed](https://anitamathias.com/tag/being-blessed/) - [Boundaries](https://anitamathias.com/tag/boundaries/) - [The Parable of the Bridge. Judgment](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-parable-of-the-bridge-judgment/) - [The pleasures of learning](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-pleasures-of-learning/) - [Chekhov](https://anitamathias.com/tag/chekhov/) - [Seagull](https://anitamathias.com/tag/seagull/) - [Psalm 91](https://anitamathias.com/tag/psalm-91/) - [The Still Point of the Turning World](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-still-point-of-the-turning-world/) - [The Quiet Land of Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-quiet-land-of-prayer/) - [Philippians](https://anitamathias.com/tag/philippians/) - [Esther Emery](https://anitamathias.com/tag/esther-emery/) - [Carla Emery](https://anitamathias.com/tag/carla-emery/) - [Wilderness](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wilderness/) - [Self-sufficiency](https://anitamathias.com/tag/self-sufficiency/) - [Living with Margins](https://anitamathias.com/tag/living-with-margins/) - [Lightboxes](https://anitamathias.com/tag/lightboxes/) - [sleep](https://anitamathias.com/tag/sleep/) - [God's blessing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gods-blessing/) - [good ideas](https://anitamathias.com/tag/good-ideas/) - [The wisdom and wit of Roy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-wisdom-and-wit-of-roy/) - [WP Young](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wp-young/) - [The Shack](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-shack/) - [the goodness and abundance of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-goodness-and-abundance-of-god/) - [Sicily](https://anitamathias.com/tag/sicily/) - [Bagheria](https://anitamathias.com/tag/bagheria/) - [building to last](https://anitamathias.com/tag/building-to-last/) - [George MacDonald](https://anitamathias.com/tag/george-macdonald/) - [Diary of an Old Soul](https://anitamathias.com/tag/diary-of-an-old-soul/) - [Economics](https://anitamathias.com/tag/economics/) - [Advent](https://anitamathias.com/tag/advent/) - [the birth of Christ](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-birth-of-christ/) - [yoga](https://anitamathias.com/tag/yoga/) - [Forgiveness and Creativity](https://anitamathias.com/tag/forgiveness-and-creativity/) - [intelligent design](https://anitamathias.com/tag/intelligent-design/) - [Baisakhi in Oxford](https://anitamathias.com/tag/baisakhi-in-oxford/) - [Pre-Raphaelites](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pre-raphaelites/) - [Impressionists](https://anitamathias.com/tag/impressionists/) - [Methodists](https://anitamathias.com/tag/methodists/) - [Quakers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/quakers/) - [Shakers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/shakers/) - [Stalingrad Madonna](https://anitamathias.com/tag/stalingrad-madonna/) - [Kurt Reuber](https://anitamathias.com/tag/kurt-reuber/) - [Violence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/violence/) - [Not resisting evil](https://anitamathias.com/tag/not-resisting-evil/) - [wanderlust](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wanderlust/) - [salad](https://anitamathias.com/tag/salad/) - [dandelion salad](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dandelion-salad/) - [Francois Mauriac](https://anitamathias.com/tag/francois-mauriac/) - [Elie Weisel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/elie-weisel/) - [Christmas letter](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christmas-letter/) - [gardening magic](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gardening-magic/) - [Prayer reverses the plot](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prayer-reverses-the-plot/) - [Roy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/roy/) - [John Frederic Amiel](https://anitamathias.com/tag/john-frederic-amiel/) - [Jake my Collie](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jake-my-collie/) - [Dogs](https://anitamathias.com/tag/dogs/) - [Zoe and Irene](https://anitamathias.com/tag/zoe-and-irene/) - [Revelation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/revelation/) - [New Year](https://anitamathias.com/tag/new-year/) - [Zigzags](https://anitamathias.com/tag/zigzags/) - [my conversion narrative](https://anitamathias.com/tag/my-conversion-narrative/) - [Anita's Essays](https://anitamathias.com/tag/anitas-essays-2/) - [Marc Chagall](https://anitamathias.com/tag/marc-chagall/) - [Artists](https://anitamathias.com/tag/artists/) - [Most Read Posts of 2013](https://anitamathias.com/tag/most-read-posts-of-2013/) - [Sabbaths and rest](https://anitamathias.com/tag/sabbaths-and-rest/) - [Anglicanism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/anglicanism/) - [God writes straight in crooked lines](https://anitamathias.com/tag/god-writes-straight-in-crooked-lines/) - [Jesus in Egypt](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jesus-in-egypt/) - [Herod](https://anitamathias.com/tag/herod/) - [Tennyson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tennyson/) - [Morte D'Arthur on prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/morte-darthur-on-prayer/) - [The Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-holy-spirit/) - [The Baptism in the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-baptism-in-the-holy-spirit/) - [Resurrection](https://anitamathias.com/tag/resurrection/) - [Easter](https://anitamathias.com/tag/easter/) - [Pascal](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pascal/) - [Elijah](https://anitamathias.com/tag/elijah/) - [Prophetic](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prophetic/) - [Tonle Batie](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tonle-batie/) - [Cambodia](https://anitamathias.com/tag/cambodia/) - [Entrepreneurship](https://anitamathias.com/tag/entrepreneurship/) - [Difference between trials and tempations](https://anitamathias.com/tag/difference-between-trials-and-tempations/) - [The I Don't List](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-i-dont-list/) - [Priorities and pruning](https://anitamathias.com/tag/priorities-and-pruning/) - [Manon of the Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/manon-of-the-spirit/) - [Marcel Pagnol](https://anitamathias.com/tag/marcel-pagnol/) - [Justice and mercy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/justice-and-mercy/) - [One Word 2014](https://anitamathias.com/tag/one-word-2014/) - [Alignment](https://anitamathias.com/tag/alignment/) - [Wendell Berry](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wendell-berry/) - [mentors and tormentors](https://anitamathias.com/tag/mentors-and-tormentors/) - [Chess](https://anitamathias.com/tag/chess/) - [Protection from evil](https://anitamathias.com/tag/protection-from-evil/) - [The right to choose one's own attitude](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-right-to-choose-ones-own-attitude/) - [Jake the Border Collie](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jake-the-border-collie/) - [James](https://anitamathias.com/tag/james/) - [Blogging and the liturgical year](https://anitamathias.com/tag/blogging-and-the-liturgical-year/) - [imitation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/imitation/) - [Thomas Merton](https://anitamathias.com/tag/thomas-merton/) - [Emerson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/emerson/) - [quick success](https://anitamathias.com/tag/quick-success/) - [being yourself](https://anitamathias.com/tag/being-yourself/) - [Business](https://anitamathias.com/tag/business/) - [A spirit-filled church](https://anitamathias.com/tag/a-spirit-filled-church/) - [God's protection against our enemies](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gods-protection-against-our-enemies/) - [2014](https://anitamathias.com/tag/2014/) - [Sunrise](https://anitamathias.com/tag/sunrise/) - [The Lord gives power to produce wealth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-lord-gives-power-to-produce-wealth/) - [Jennifer Luitwieler](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jennifer-luitwieler/) - [air support](https://anitamathias.com/tag/air-support/) - [multiplication](https://anitamathias.com/tag/multiplication/) - [anointing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/anointing/) - [Holy Spirit as Wild Goose](https://anitamathias.com/tag/holy-spirit-as-wild-goose/) - [Huizenga](https://anitamathias.com/tag/huizenga/) - [Will of God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/will-of-god/) - [destiny](https://anitamathias.com/tag/destiny/) - [Pets](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pets-2/) - [Racism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/racism/) - [Jesse Jackson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jesse-jackson/) - [Misuse of Scripture](https://anitamathias.com/tag/misuse-of-scripture/) - [Provence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/provence/) - [French](https://anitamathias.com/tag/french/) - [Jesus Feminist](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jesus-feminist/) - [Christian feminism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-feminism/) - [Blogging and poetry](https://anitamathias.com/tag/blogging-and-poetry/) - [Leif Enger](https://anitamathias.com/tag/leif-enger/) - [Peace Like a River](https://anitamathias.com/tag/peace-like-a-river/) - [Naps](https://anitamathias.com/tag/naps/) - [Garden news](https://anitamathias.com/tag/garden-news/) - [Roman Catholicism](https://anitamathias.com/tag/roman-catholicism/) - [Why I am no longer a Catholic](https://anitamathias.com/tag/why-i-am-no-longer-a-catholic/) - [St. Teresa of Avila](https://anitamathias.com/tag/st-teresa-of-avila/) - [Jealousy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jealousy/) - [Reversing a downward spiral](https://anitamathias.com/tag/reversing-a-downward-spiral/) - [Time vs. Money](https://anitamathias.com/tag/time-vs-money/) - [relying on the Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/relying-on-the-spirit/) - [Samuel Johnson](https://anitamathias.com/tag/samuel-johnson/) - [Lent](https://anitamathias.com/tag/lent/) - [Jesus the Door](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jesus-the-door/) - [Saul Bellow](https://anitamathias.com/tag/saul-bellow/) - [David](https://anitamathias.com/tag/david/) - [Saul](https://anitamathias.com/tag/saul/) - [Trajectories](https://anitamathias.com/tag/trajectories/) - [Victor Hugo](https://anitamathias.com/tag/victor-hugo/) - [Matthew Arnold](https://anitamathias.com/tag/matthew-arnold/) - [John and Carol Arnott](https://anitamathias.com/tag/john-and-carol-arnott/) - [Nelson Mandela](https://anitamathias.com/tag/nelson-mandela/) - [Free writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/free-writing/) - [writing rapidly](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writing-rapidly/) - ["Anima Naturaliter Christiana": A Naturally Christian Soul](https://anitamathias.com/tag/anima-naturaliter-christiana-a-naturally-christian-soul/) - [Duncan Smith Consumed by Love](https://anitamathias.com/tag/duncan-smith-consumed-by-love/) - [Double Portion of Anointing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/double-portion-of-anointing/) - [Elijah and Elisha](https://anitamathias.com/tag/elijah-and-elisha/) - [Secret History with God](https://anitamathias.com/tag/secret-history-with-god/) - [Christian fiction](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christian-fiction/) - [Shadowmancer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/shadowmancer/) - [G. P. Taylor](https://anitamathias.com/tag/g-p-taylor/) - [Christ in us](https://anitamathias.com/tag/christ-in-us/) - [the Hope of Glory](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-hope-of-glory/) - [Duncan Smith](https://anitamathias.com/tag/duncan-smith/) - [Consumed by Love](https://anitamathias.com/tag/consumed-by-love/) - [How people change](https://anitamathias.com/tag/how-people-change/) - [garden](https://anitamathias.com/tag/garden/) - [Wealth and the Kingdom](https://anitamathias.com/tag/wealth-and-the-kingdom/) - [silence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/silence/) - [quiet](https://anitamathias.com/tag/quiet/) - [Hudson Taylor 's Spiritual Secret](https://anitamathias.com/tag/hudson-taylor-s-spiritual-secret/) - [#TFBloggers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/tfbloggers/) - [Hope](https://anitamathias.com/tag/hope/) - [Domestic routines](https://anitamathias.com/tag/domestic-routines/) - [consistency](https://anitamathias.com/tag/consistency/) - [Second Acts in the Christian Life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/second-acts-in-the-christian-life/) - [Feeding the Five Thousand](https://anitamathias.com/tag/feeding-the-five-thousand/) - [Carmel Thomason](https://anitamathias.com/tag/carmel-thomason/) - [Ray Rossiter](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ray-rossiter/) - [Healings](https://anitamathias.com/tag/healings/) - [Job](https://anitamathias.com/tag/job/) - [Country living](https://anitamathias.com/tag/country-living/) - [Frank Laubach](https://anitamathias.com/tag/frank-laubach/) - [Jules Middleton](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jules-middleton/) - [Ordinand](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ordinand/) - [SEITE](https://anitamathias.com/tag/seite/) - [Training to be a Vicar in the Church of England](https://anitamathias.com/tag/training-to-be-a-vicar-in-the-church-of-england/) - [Micah](https://anitamathias.com/tag/micah/) - [Goethe](https://anitamathias.com/tag/goethe/) - [W. H. Murray in The Scottish Himalaya Expedition](https://anitamathias.com/tag/w-h-murray-in-the-scottish-himalaya-expedition/) - [Let me get home before dark](https://anitamathias.com/tag/let-me-get-home-before-dark/) - [Aging Well](https://anitamathias.com/tag/aging-well/) - [Robertson McQuilkin](https://anitamathias.com/tag/robertson-mcquilkin/) - [Finishing Well](https://anitamathias.com/tag/finishing-well/) - [walking on water](https://anitamathias.com/tag/walking-on-water/) - [Breaking writers' block](https://anitamathias.com/tag/breaking-writers-block/) - [In which God speaks in dreams](https://anitamathias.com/tag/in-which-god-speaks-in-dreams/) - [Gardening and Prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gardening-and-prayer/) - [The Inner Ring](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-inner-ring/) - [soaking prayer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/soaking-prayer/) - [Ephesians](https://anitamathias.com/tag/ephesians/) - [On Self-Acceptance](https://anitamathias.com/tag/on-self-acceptance/) - [Do the next thing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/do-the-next-thing/) - [William Carey](https://anitamathias.com/tag/william-carey/) - [Pol Pot](https://anitamathias.com/tag/pol-pot/) - [Killing Fields](https://anitamathias.com/tag/killing-fields/) - [Prophetic Activation](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prophetic-activation/) - [Fire Tunnels](https://anitamathias.com/tag/fire-tunnels/) - [The love of the Father](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-love-of-the-father/) - [Melanchthon](https://anitamathias.com/tag/melanchthon/) - [therapeutic](https://anitamathias.com/tag/therapeutic/) - [restorative effects of nature](https://anitamathias.com/tag/restorative-effects-of-nature/) - [Jake](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jake/) - [my Border Collie](https://anitamathias.com/tag/my-border-collie/) - [God breathes stars](https://anitamathias.com/tag/god-breathes-stars/) - [honour](https://anitamathias.com/tag/honour/) - [Francesco](https://anitamathias.com/tag/francesco/) - [Artist of Florence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/artist-of-florence/) - [the Man Who Gave Too Much](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-man-who-gave-too-much/) - [Parties](https://anitamathias.com/tag/parties/) - [Envy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/envy/) - [the good life](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-good-life/) - [Blenheim Palace](https://anitamathias.com/tag/blenheim-palace/) - [lesotho](https://anitamathias.com/tag/lesotho/) - [Rainer Maria Rilke](https://anitamathias.com/tag/rainer-maria-rilke/) - [Becoming a writer](https://anitamathias.com/tag/becoming-a-writer/) - [the Messy Beautiful](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-messy-beautiful/) - [is the Christian Life Hard or Easy](https://anitamathias.com/tag/is-the-christian-life-hard-or-easy/) - [evading a trap](https://anitamathias.com/tag/evading-a-trap/) - [Praise the Lord Anyway](https://anitamathias.com/tag/praise-the-lord-anyway/) - [Carotthers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/carotthers/) - [Corrie Ten Boom](https://anitamathias.com/tag/corrie-ten-boom/) - [Fleas](https://anitamathias.com/tag/fleas/) - [Simon Ponsonby](https://anitamathias.com/tag/simon-ponsonby/) - [Rilke](https://anitamathias.com/tag/rilke/) - [Julia Ward Howe](https://anitamathias.com/tag/julia-ward-howe/) - [career](https://anitamathias.com/tag/career/) - [Fiddler on the Roof: Movie](https://anitamathias.com/tag/fiddler-on-the-roof-movie/) - [El Palmeral Retreat Centre](https://anitamathias.com/tag/el-palmeral-retreat-centre/) - [Spain](https://anitamathias.com/tag/spain/) - [socrates](https://anitamathias.com/tag/socrates/) - [writing process](https://anitamathias.com/tag/writing-process/) - [Blogging and book-writing](https://anitamathias.com/tag/blogging-and-book-writing/) - [The wild goose of the Holy Spirit](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-wild-goose-of-the-holy-spirit/) - [His Place Saarland](https://anitamathias.com/tag/his-place-saarland/) - [the potter's hands](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-potters-hands/) - [Amy Boucher Pye](https://anitamathias.com/tag/amy-boucher-pye/) - [Monday Blog Hop](https://anitamathias.com/tag/monday-blog-hop/) - [1 Corinthians 13](https://anitamathias.com/tag/1-corinthians-13/) - [honesty](https://anitamathias.com/tag/honesty/) - [grace and truth](https://anitamathias.com/tag/grace-and-truth/) - [Enquiring of the Lord](https://anitamathias.com/tag/enquiring-of-the-lord/) - [God's guidance](https://anitamathias.com/tag/gods-guidance/) - [Jeremiah](https://anitamathias.com/tag/jeremiah/) - [forgiving](https://anitamathias.com/tag/forgiving/) - [caution](https://anitamathias.com/tag/caution/) - [prudence](https://anitamathias.com/tag/prudence/) - [Joseph and his brothers](https://anitamathias.com/tag/joseph-and-his-brothers/) - [the crying game](https://anitamathias.com/tag/the-crying-game/)