Posts by Richard Parrish

Small Choices. Lasting Formation. I believe there is a tendency to underestimate the power of small things. Dramatic moments and significant decisions are much more noticeable. We celebrate major accomplishments and life-changing events. Yet much of life is shaped not by a single moment, but by thousands of small choices repeated over time. The same…

One of the realities of modern life is that we are surrounded by voices. Some come from people we know and trust. Others come through news outlets, podcasts, social media, books, advertisements, and the steady stream of notifications appearing on our phones throughout the day. Silence has become a rare commodity. While we often think…

Reflections on Faith, Unity, and America’s 250th Year This year marks an important milestone in our nation’s history. For 250 years, the United States has existed as an independent nation. Anniversaries like this invite us to pause and reflect. They encourage us to look back with gratitude, acknowledge God’s faithfulness, and consider the values that…

Learning to Create Space for God My intentions are good. My follow-through does not always match my intention. Let me explain. I really want to spend time with God. That’s a good desire. But it is common for something to always get in the way – preempting my desire by distraction.  It’s not a lack…

Most of us know what it feels like to try harder. We try harder to be patient, pray consistently, stay focused – to be peaceful, faithful, and spiritually grounded. While effort certainly has a place in our lives, many people quietly discover something discouraging:  Striving alone does not transform the heart. Effort may change behavior…

If you’ve ever heard the phrase spiritual formation, you may have wondered what it actually means.  For some, it feels unfamiliar. For others, it sounds unclear – maybe even a bit intimidating. It can bring to mind structured programs, spiritual expectations, or the quiet pressure to “do more” in order to grow.  For some, it…

It happens – whether we realize it or not. From the earliest moments of life to the end of our days, we are being shaped. Most of the time, this shaping is quiet – almost imperceptible. We may not have the language to describe it, and yet it is real – steadily, patiently, and powerfully…