 Hey friends! I’m so glad you’re here today—whether you’re in your kitchen with coffee, stuck in traffic (hands-free, I hope), or curled up with your phone and a fuzzy blanket. Let’s take a few minutes together to dive into a passage that’s all about something we all try to do—but often feel like we’re doing wrong: prayer.
Today we’re looking at Luke 11:1–13, where Jesus’ disciples come to Him and ask, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Honestly, isn’t that such a relief? Even the disciples—who had front-row seats to Jesus' miracles—still had to ask, “Hey… how do we even do this?” So if you’ve ever felt awkward in prayer, fallen asleep mid-prayer, or gotten distracted by your grocery list while praying—congratulations, you’re in good company. In this passage, Jesus gives us two key things: A Model (what we now call The Lord’s Prayer), A Mindset (boldness, persistence, and trust in God’s goodness). He doesn’t give us a perfect script to repeat mindlessly. Instead, He offers a framework—a way to talk to God that includes praise, provision, forgiveness, and guidance. Then, Jesus tells a story that’s honestly a little awkward and hilarious if you picture it. A man knocks on his friend’s door in the middle of the night because he needs bread. And the friend is like, “I’m in bed. The kids are asleep. Go away.” But Jesus says the man gets up—not necessarily because he’s feeling generous, but because of the other guy’s persistence. He keeps knocking. Jesus follows that story with these famous words: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” —Luke 11:9 (NRSV) God isn’t saying, “If you ask three times and push the right button, you’ll get what you want.” It’s more like Jesus saying, “Don’t be afraid to keep showing up. Keep talking. Keep knocking.” Because sometimes, let’s be honest—we think we’re bothering God. But that’s not how God works. Jesus reminds us that God is better than our best parent, better than our best friend, better than any neighbor we could knock on at midnight. God wants to be bothered. God invites it. So let’s get real for a second. If prayer feels stiff, confusing, or like it “doesn’t work,” maybe we’re expecting the wrong thing. Prayer isn’t a magic wand. It’s not about the right words. It’s a conversation. A connection. A holy hotline where sometimes you talk, sometimes you listen, and sometimes you sit in silence together—kind of like being with someone you trust deeply, without needing to fill every gap. Maybe today you need to be reminded that it’s okay to ask. To knock. To keep seeking. Even if you’re tired, even if the door feels closed, even if you're not sure what you’re even asking for anymore. God’s not annoyed by your prayers. God is ready to receive them—with love, with grace, and with a listening heart. So go ahead. Pray badly. Pray boldly. Pray honestly. But whatever you do—don’t stop knocking. There’s Someone on the other side who loves opening doors. Thank you for spending this special moment with me. See you next time. And don’t forget—you’re not alone. You are loved. And you can always, always knock.
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 Tucked away in the heart of Solon, Ohio, is a little gem that every carb-loving soul should know about—D & R Bagels. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t need flashy signs or trendy gimmicks to win you over. One bite of their perfectly chewy, just-the-right-amount-of-crust bagels, and you’ll be hooked.
I went in for a quick breakfast bite and left with a small bagel haul (no regrets). Let’s talk about two flavors that completely stole the show:
There’s something special about a local bagel shop that keeps things simple and gets it right. The staff were friendly, the atmosphere was relaxed, and everything tasted freshly made. It’s the kind of spot you’ll find locals grabbing their usual and newcomers (like me) plotting their return before they’re even out the door. So, if you find yourself near Solon—or are just in need of a reason for a carb-themed road trip—add D & R Bagels to your list. Go for the cinnamon, stay for the blueberry, and maybe grab a dozen more for the road. You’ll thank yourself later. Have you tried D & R Bagels yet? What’s your go-to bagel flavor? Let me know in the comments or tag me in your foodie pics! Let me tell you about the day I became best friends with a dolphin, faced my fear of stingrays, and discovered that unlimited snacks are a form of ministry. Welcome to Discovery Cove—Florida’s hidden paradise where nature, adventure, and free food collide in the best possible way. First Impressions: Like Stepping Into a Tropical DaydreamFrom the moment we walked in, it felt like we had entered a luxury island resort—but without needing a passport. No crowds. No chaos. Just palm trees, gentle music, and staff who seem to have unlocked the secret to eternal happiness (maybe it’s the all-you-can-eat breakfast burritos?). It’s an all-inclusive day resort, and they mean it—from wetsuits to waffles, you’re covered. Pro tip: Get there early. You’ll want the full day to soak in every moment—and every snack station. Dolphin Kisses & Squeals of JoyLet’s be real—everyone comes to Discovery Cove for the dolphins. And YES, it’s just as magical as it sounds. We met our dolphin in a quiet cove, guided by expert trainers who made everything feel safe and personal. I got to pet her, hug her, and even give her a little kiss (don’t tell my husband). She squeaked, I squealed, and my inner 10-year-old did cartwheels. I never thought I’d fall in love with someone who eats raw fish for breakfast—but here we are. Snorkeling with Stingrays (the “Holy Cow” Moment)Now, about those stingrays. Giant. Graceful. Slightly intimidating. I hesitated at first—especially when one the size of a kitchen table glided past me like a gentle underwater spaceship. But then? Pure wonder. We floated over rainbow-colored fish and coral, but the real thrill was realizing you’re literally swimming next to creatures you usually only see in documentaries. It's like snorkeling in your own National Geographic episode. The All-Inclusive Food Game is StrongHere’s where Discovery Cove truly shines--free food. all. day. long. We’re talking breakfast sandwiches, grilled salmon, soft-serve ice cream, churros, and more. Every time I walked by a food cart, I had to investigate. For research, of course. Whether it was a plate of chicken tenders after snorkeling or a cold mango smoothie between adventures, the fuel (and joy) never ran out. Also, shoutout to the staff member who handed me a cookie and said, “You look like you need this.” Sir, you are seen. You are loved. Lazy Rivers, Aviaries, and the Art of Doing NothingIn between dolphin hugs and snorkeling, we floated down the lazy river, wandered through an aviary with birds that actually landed on us, and lounged in hammocks like we were in a shampoo commercial. It was the perfect blend of thrill and chill. Quick Tips to Make the Most of It:
I left sun-kissed, dolphin-hugged, and totally full—both in my belly and in my heart.  If you ever wanted to step into a different time preferably one with jousting, oversized turkey legs, and someone shouting “Huzzah!” every few minutes then the Great Lakes Medieval Faire is your place. Nestled in the woods of Ohio, this magical little village appears every summer like clockwork, ready to transport you into a world of knights, fairies, and mischief. And for me? It’s more than just a day of fun. It’s where my husband and I had our very first date over twenty years ago. Yep, long before jobs, and the art of tag-team grocery shopping, we wandered these very dirt paths hand-in-hand, both pretending we weren’t totally awkward. Spoiler: we were. Now, all these years later, we return like pilgrims to a sacred site with sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and a plan to eat everything in sight. Archery: My Medieval Love Language Let’s start with the obvious. If there’s archery, I’m in. The Faire has a little target range tucked between merchant tents and the smell of roasted meats. It’s nothing fancy, just some bows, straw targets, and the satisfaction of beating your spouse’s score with dramatic flair. I may or may not have channeled my inner elven warrior, whispering “For the realm!” before each shot. (Okay, definitely did.) Feasting Like Royalty... or Like a Peasant Who Hasn’t Eaten in Days The food? Oh, friends. You don’t just eat at the Faire. You commit. Giant smoked turkey legs that could double as medieval weapons? Check. Fried pickles on a stick? Yes. Cinnamon almonds that make your whole bag smell like Christmas? Always. And if you haven’t tried the mead slushie yet, treat yourself. It's like someone looked at a wine cooler and said, “Let’s give this a noble makeover.” Delicious and just dangerous enough if you forget to hydrate. Laughter Is Thy Best Medicine We made sure to catch the comedy shows, and let me tell you—they’re not your average dad jokes (though my husband may have taken notes). The bawdy humor, improv antics, and quick-witted performers had the whole crowd howling. We caught the Washing Well Wenches (still hysterical after all these years) and the Mud Show, which somehow gets funnier the dirtier it gets. Don’t sit in the splash zone unless you really want to be part of the action. A Bit of Magic (and Nostalgia) Somewhere between the axe-throwing booth and the fairy-winged toddlers dancing in bubbles, I looked over at my husband and smiled. This place—chaotic, dusty, loud, and weirdly wonderful—was where it all began. Just two young nerds in love, pretending we knew what we were doing. Now, it’s part tradition, part time capsule, part annual excuse to wear flower crowns and eat funnel cake before noon. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way. Tips for Your Quest:
Until next time, may your aim be true and your turkey leg never dry.  There’s nothing quite like stepping into Hollywood Studios. The moment you walk through those gates, it’s as if the golden age of cinema wraps you in a big, nostalgic hug, except with way more churros and roller coasters. Our latest visit was a whirlwind of adventure, laughs, and just a touch of dramatic flair (this is Hollywood after all!).
The Epic Stunt Spectacular: Indiana Jones Still Has It We couldn’t not wait to go see the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, it’s basically a rite of passage. And let me tell you, Indy still has it. The explosions! The jumps! The classic boulder scene! I cheered like it was 1981 again. It’s one of those shows that never gets old, part nostalgia, part adrenaline, and all-around incredible stunt work. I was on the edge of my seat… while also trying to explain to my kid that no, they cannot become a stunt double today. Glamour and Cake at the Brown Derby After all that action, it was time for something classic and for us, that always means a reservation at The Hollywood Brown Derby. There’s something about that old-Hollywood charm that makes you sit a little straighter and feel just a little more glamorous (even in Mickey ears). The Salad was perfection, the cake was, as always, divine. A Perfect Blend of Action and Elegance The day was the perfect mix of thrills and chill—Indiana Jones gave us the action, and the Brown Derby gave us the elegance. Add a little people-watching, a few character sightings, and some very enthusiastic gift shop browsing, and you’ve got yourself a red carpet-worthy Disney day. Your Turn! Have you braved the boulder with Indy? Or have a favorite dish at the Derby? Tell me what your Hollywood Studios must-do is!  Let's be honest. There are two types of people in this world: the ones who go to Disney for the rides... and the ones who go to Epcot to eat snacks from 11 different countries without shame. I, proudly, am the latter. Epcot 2025? ICONIC. Where else can you start your day in Canada, have lunch in Japan, dessert in France, and be home in time for fireworks that make you cry like you're in a Hallmark movie? Epcot is essentially the International Food and Wine Festival I never knew I needed.
First of all, walking around the World Showcase feels like you've unlocked a cheat code for international travel. No passports. No airport security. No one is asking why you packed seven pairs of shoes for a weekend. Just vibes. There was live music, street performers, and cast members from each country who somehow made me feel like I was actually abroad. Then came the grand finale: the fireworks. Listen. If you've never ended your day in Disney, standing by the lagoon, holding the hand of someone you love, and watching the sky explode in color and magic… You haven't lived. Epcot's "Luminous: The Symphony of Us" lit up the night with music, lights, lasers, and enough feels to make even the grumpiest dad tear up a little. When it was over? I waddled my way out of the park, full of joy, memories, and possibly an alarming amount of pretzel. Epcot, you beautiful, futuristic world-traveling dreamboat, you did not disappoint. You gave me laughter, flavor, and a little bit of sore feet. Worth it? Absolutely. Would I do it again? Tomorrow. In a heartbeat. If you're planning your own visit, I have one piece of advice: wear comfy shoes, pace your snacks, and never skip the fireworks.  Luke 10:1–11, 16–20
I want you to imagine a scene in our house. I turned to my husband and said: “Next week, we’re going on a trip. It’s a surprise.” He looked at me, half-curious, half-concerned, and said, “Okay… where are we going?” I said, “Not telling you. But we’re not bringing anything.” “No bags?” “Nope.” “No snacks?” “Nope.” “Shoes?” “Just the ones on our feet.” “Are you okay?” he asked, now clearly alarmed. “Totally fine,” I said. “Jesus-style travel. Luke 10. You’ll love it.” At that point, he quietly walked away and started packing his bag. That’s how today’s Gospel begins, with an impossible packing list. Jesus appoints seventy of his followers and sends them out two for not for a vacation, but for a mission. And he tells them:
Walking Empty-Handed Now I don’t know about you, but I don’t like leaving my house without a phone charger, snacks, and an emergency backup plan. But here’s Jesus saying: Go out with nothing but peace. Why? Because Jesus wants them to know: You’re not relying on your resources. You’re relying on God. And on the hospitality of others. And on the message you carry. It’s not about how prepared you feel, it’s about the one who sends you. Peace to This House The seventy are told to go into every town, every home, and say: “Peace to this house.” Now, that sounds nice. But let’s be real--peace is not always welcomed. Some people don’t want peace. Some people don’t want strangers showing up with big feelings and bold faith. Jesus prepares them for that too: If your peace is rejected, don’t argue. Don’t post a rant on Facebook. Don’t shout, “You’ll regret this!” Just shake the dust off your feet and move on. That’s a Word for the Church Today Because here’s the thing: We’ve all been there. We’ve shared an invitation, a kindness, or a word of faith, and been met with eye rolls or silence or closed doors. We live in a world where rejection can feel personal, where not being heard stings. But Jesus says: It’s okay. Shake it off. I’m still with you. Keep going. This is freeing. It means we’re not responsible for how people receive the gospel—we’re only responsible for bringing it. Sent Like Lambs Jesus also says, “I’m sending you out like lambs among wolves.” Which… again… isn’t super comforting. Lambs are vulnerable. They don’t carry swords. They don’t argue on Twitter. They don’t win debates. They just show up—soft, steady, open-hearted. And that’s how Jesus sends us. We’re not sent with force or flash. We’re sent with peace and presence. Joy in the Right Place When the seventy come back, they are pumped up. “Jesus! Even the demons listen to us!” And Jesus responds: “That’s great. But don’t let the power go to your head. Rejoice not because the spirits obey you, but because your names are written in heaven.” In other words: The greatest joy isn’t in what you do. It’s in who you are. And who are you?
What This Means for Us So what does all this mean for us—here in our pews, in our busy homes, in a world that feels more like wolves than lambs? It means:
Maybe that’s a neighbor who feels alone. Maybe that’s someone who’s ready to hear about Jesus and doesn’t even know it yet. We bring peace. We bring love. We bring presence. And we trust that Christ has already gone ahead of us. Closing So, friends, as strange as it sounds, leave your baggage behind. Take your faith. Take a friend. And go where Jesus sends you. It might be uncomfortable. It might get dusty. But it will also be holy. Because your name is written in heaven. And that, not fear, not rejection, not what you carry or don’t carry, That is where your joy begins. Amen. There’s something magical about seeing the world through your child’s eyes, especially when that world includes giraffes, roller coasters, and mouthwatering barbecue.
Our recent visit to Animal Kingdom was one for the memory books. From the moment we stepped into the park, it felt like we’d been transported into a living, breathing celebration of nature, complete with drumming, lush greenery, and the distant roar of something wild (probably my stomach waiting for lunch). Safari Magic Hands down, the Kilimanjaro Safari was a favorite, especially watching my daughter’s face light up as we bumped along in the open-air vehicle. She spotted zebras, giraffes, elephants, and even a snoozing lion perched on the rocks like royalty. Every turn brought a gasp, a “Mom, look!” or a wide-eyed whisper. It’s one thing to see animals in a book or a zoo… it’s another to feel like you’ve stepped into their world. That joy? That awe? Pure gold. Expedition Everest — The Ride That Shook UsI may have screamed louder than my child on Expedition Everest. No shame. That backward drop gets me every time. But we both came off laughing, hair windblown, and ready to go again (well, after a snack). The mix of thrill and mystery — plus that Yeti — makes it one of our all-time favorite Disney rides. And if you’ve never seen a kid try to act brave after surviving a Yeti attack… it's priceless. BBQ Bliss at Flame TreeAfter our adventures, we were more than ready for lunch, and Flame Tree Barbecue delivered in a big way. Pulled pork sandwiches, ribs that fall off the bone, mac and cheese, it was the kind of meal that makes you consider a second lunch. We grabbed a shady table by the water, kicked back, and just let the flavors and the atmosphere soak in. There’s something so satisfying about eating good food after a good adventure — especially when it comes with a side of smiles and messy fingers. Final Thoughts: Animal Kingdom isn’t just a theme park. It’s a journey, into the heart of the wild, into thrilling stories, and into sweet moments you’ll carry home with you. Watching my daughter take it all in reminded me just how beautiful the world is… especially when you slow down and share it with someone you love. Until next time, may your path be wild, your coaster fast, and your ribs tender. There’s something about walking down Main Street U.S.A. with Cinderella Castle in the distance that makes you feel like a kid again, no matter how many times you’ve been. On our most recent visit to Magic Kingdom, the magic hit instantly. We made a beeline for one of my all-time favorites: The Haunted Mansion. There's just something deliciously spooky and delightfully detailed about that ride. I love the way it wraps you in eerie charm without being too scary. The ballroom scene still amazes me every time, those dancing ghosts really know how to throw a party. After that ghostly delight, we couldn’t resist the call of The Jungle Cruise. I don’t care how many times I’ve heard the corny jokes, they always make me laugh. Our skipper was top-notch this time, fully committed to the role, and I swear the backside of water never looked more glorious. Somewhere between dodging hippos and escaping grim grinning ghosts, we refueled with some truly great food. From churros and popcorn to a surprisingly tasty flatbread in Liberty Square, we grazed our way through the park and didn’t regret a single bite. And then, a moment of pure joy, we stumbled across Mary Poppins herself, umbrella in hand, looking practically perfect in every way. I don’t know what it is about seeing a character from childhood come to life, but it sparked that same sense of wonder I felt the first time I watched her float down from the sky. We wrapped up the day with sore feet, full bellies, and hearts completely refilled by the magic of the Kingdom. If you’ve ever wondered if it’s worth the trip, trust me. Whether you’re in it for the rides, the characters, the food, or just that feeling of being somewhere completely joyful, Magic Kingdom delivers. And yes, I’m already planning my return. Because when life feels heavy, there’s nothing like a Haunted Mansion and a Jungle Cruise to remind you that magic still exists. “Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day... You are witnesses of these things. And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised...’ Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them... While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven.”
—Luke 24:45–51 There’s something powerful about a blessing. Not a rushed goodbye or a polite “take care,” but a real, heartfelt moment where someone speaks words of love and hope over your life. That’s what Jesus does here. As he prepares to return to heaven, he doesn’t leave his disciples in confusion or fear—he leaves them with a blessing. Let’s be honest: most of us don’t love change. Even good changes can feel a little scary. Transitions—such as graduations, retirements, new jobs, and loved ones passing—can leave us wondering what comes next and if we’re truly ready for it. And here’s Jesus, standing with his friends on a hillside, lifting his hands not to wave goodbye but to bless them. And while he’s still blessing them—right in the middle of that holy moment—he rises into heaven. And the disciples? They don’t panic. They don’t fall apart. They head back to Jerusalem filled with joy. That part always amazes me. Why joy? Because Jesus reminded them that the story wasn’t ending—it was just beginning. He had opened their hearts and minds to everything they had lived through together, and he promised they wouldn’t be alone. The Spirit was coming. They were ready, even if they didn’t feel ready. And maybe that’s a word for us, too. You might be standing on the edge of something new today—something exciting or something bittersweet. You might be carrying questions, fears, or just that ache that comes with change. But hear this: Jesus doesn’t just send us out—he blesses us forward. He goes with us. And what’s ahead? It may be unknown, but it’s not empty. The Spirit is still coming. The promise still holds. Jesus, Sometimes, change is hard. Help me remember that you don’t send me out alone. Thank you for the blessing you speak over my life. When I feel unsure, please fill me with your peace. And when I step into something new, remind me you’re already there. Amen. |
AuthorAbout Rev. Dr. Erin Marie Burns (But please, just call me Erin!) I’m a pastor, writer, and professional "showing-upper" when life gets messy. Around here, we talk about grief, faith, hope, and how to care for people when words just aren’t enough—because let’s face it, sometimes life hands us more questions than answers (and that's okay). I believe in the holy power of just being there, that coffee should basically count as a spiritual practice, and that God shows up in the small, quiet moments—like a kind text, a shared silence, or a garden full of stubbornly beautiful dahlias. When I’m not writing or walking alongside folks in hard seasons, you’ll probably find me: Attempting to tame my garden (the weeds usually win). Practicing archery like I’m training for a medieval adventure. Chasing family time, deep conversations, and maybe a slice of pie. If you’re looking for real talk, a little humor, and gentle reminders that you don’t have to fix everything—you’ve found your spot. Pull up a chair, grab a mug of something warm, and stick around. We’re in this together. P.S. Come back next week—grief, faith, and hope aren’t one-time conversations! Archives
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