Tag Archives: spiritual formation

Lay Down… No, Seriously, LAY DOWN. (Retreat Session 1)

Posted on March 20, 2012 by Carl Simmons

The next four entries are for a self-directed retreat/interlude I’m creating for the midway point of Lay It Down, the Book. I’m trying to build it for both individuals and small groups; this is the individual version. Enjoy. (P.S. I’m … Continue reading →

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Going to God Like a Cigarette

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Carl Simmons

Our rather provocative titular reference above is nonetheless a good place for us to start, because this is a book about pursuing God with a single-minded passion. And you’ll have to discover the story that goes with it for yourself. … Continue reading →

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Learning to Live Out of Our Identity

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Carl Simmons

Basically, what we have here is a book about finding, and resting in, our identity in Christ,  and you can never have enough books like that out there. And for the record: We don’t. David M. Showers. Ten Steps to … Continue reading →

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Fill ‘Er Up!

Posted on December 19, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Even if there’s not one currently in your refrigerator for the holidays, it’s very likely that you’ve experienced the sheer joy of a roll of cookie dough. Some of you can’t even wait to cook the stuff, and just eat … Continue reading →

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Following Jesus Where You Already Are

Posted on July 13, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Find yourself a  “Help Wanted” section in your newspaper (or if you like, visit an online job site). Take a minute to to look through the listings. What are some of the more interesting jobs advertised? Which ones do you … Continue reading →

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Remaining As You Go

Posted on July 11, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Think about the last time you went crazy with an ice-cream sundae—or pizza, or for you more diet-conscious types let’s make it a salad. Why did you pick the toppings you did? How would other toppings have affected it differently? … Continue reading →

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We’re All on Mission

Posted on July 6, 2011 by Carl Simmons

It’s true. And I didn’t unintentionally leave out the “a” above. But don’t take my word for it…. “I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. He takes away  every branch that does not bear  fruit in … Continue reading →

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How good is your news?

Posted on June 29, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Go find an old newspaper—the older the better, but week-old is probably enough to make the point. Go ahead; take a few moments to look it over. Do you recall any of the stories you’re reading? Do any of them … Continue reading →

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What Are YOUR Re-Reads?

Posted on June 23, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Consider this one light and personal. Or a mandate to get into some heavy reading. Or an excuse to mutter, “He clearly has too much time on his hands.” Your call. Anyway, since it’s Thursday (i.e., Other Voices Day) I’m … Continue reading →

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The Battle of Your Life

Posted on June 22, 2011 by Carl Simmons

“My dear brothers, never forget, when you hear the progress of enlightenment vaunted, that the devil’s best trick is to persuade you that he doesn’t exist!”—Charles Baudelaire, “Le Joueur Généreux” This is a long one, but it needs to be, … Continue reading →

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