In an essay he wrote in 1930, John Maynard Keynes predicted a 15-hour workweek by 2030, when we’d all have time to enjoy “the hour and the day virtuously and well.” During the 1950s during the post-WWII boom in productivity, along with rising incomes and standards of living, led economists and politicians to predict that … More The Busyness Trap: Sabbath Practice Part 1
When my husband Daryl and I first started dating, one of our pastors asked us to be his newborn daughter’s godparents. We were honored, but also a bit miffed. “We’re not…married,” I said to Pastor K. “I’m aware,” he said. “Then how can we…?” asked Daryl. “You’re both wonderful people,” K said, “and even if you … More Appearance and Truth
We’re in the last days of only child-dom here at the Ellis house. Our little preschooler is about to have his world rocked. We’ve had some really sweet moments of playing and reading and snuggles. I’ve cherished his smile and being able to give him every last ounce of my attention during the days we … More The Last Days of the Only Child
Oh, it’s a comedy. I spoke at a MOPS [Mothers of Preschoolers] gathering down near San Diego Thursday. I love, love, love speaking, and add an extra “love” to that list when it’s speaking to moms. There’s something really special about groups gathered to support women doing one of the hardest, most exhausting, most rewarding … More Public Speaking While Nine Months Pregnant
One of the best-kept secrets in ministry is how much pastors love their congregations. The best pastors always get a bit personally attached, no matter how good their boundaries are, because ministry is an all-in endeavor. When you’re sharing meals and life, praying at hospital bedsides, baptizing babies, officiating at weddings, crying at funerals, working alongside … More I Hold You in My Heart
Most of us gravitate to people who are a lot like us. It’s easy. It’s natural. To a point, it’s even super helpful. Honestly, I don’t know what I would do without my cadre of mommy friends. To have people to talk to about night feedings and preschool and baby carriers, all while being free … More The Middle Way of Friendship
Courtney Ellis 