Word Made Flesh is a contemplative community. One of the ways that we contemplate what God is doing in the world and in our lives is through the reflection articles that we write. We invite you to read, learn, and celebrate with us.
The Cry for Submission: Letter from the Editor by Emily Fales
Sabbatical and my dear old Dad
August 2012 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 I couldn’t have imagined my 30th year would be so life-changing. Welcoming our gorgeous daughter to this blue planet was thrilling,…
Ariana Tales
May 2012 On January 18th, I left my doctor’s office discouraged. I was more than a week overdue, and our daughter showed no inclination of leaving the comfortable warmth of my belly. But I wanted to go into labor naturally, so I took another long walk with my mom (our daily routine since she…
Advent Reflections
January 2012 “Unto us a child is born…” Though you guys won’t receive this update until after New Year’s, I’m writing it before Christmas. Before our daughter is born. And two nights ago, I woke up terrified. I was having contractions. They weren’t very strong or very painful, but they were…
Christmas Mercies
December 2011 “…because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.” Zechariah’s Song, Luke 1:78-79 Eli is pregnant with twins. …
Fish in My Belly
September 2011 Here’s a riddle for you. I’m eating mandarins and cheese by the pound. I had the hardest time that I’ve ever had adjusting back the altitude after traveling to the States—lots of vomiting and exhaustion. I’ve gained twelve pounds in the past four months. And a few times, I’ve had…
Changes
August 2011 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. Isaiah 55:8 Without a doubt, I came to Bolivia with a fixed vision of how everything would look. I was rigidly idealistic, and believed I knew what God wanted…for our community, the ministry, my own…
The Wedding that Didn't Happen
March 2011 I will betroth you to me forever; I will betroth you in righteousness and justice, in love and compassion. Hosea 2:19 The flowers were glowing on the tables. There was champagne in the fridge. The entire floor smelled of spicy pork chops and baked potatoes. I had just put the…
Shepherds with Llamas in tow
December 1, 2010 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11 This morning in Suti…
Suti Sana Graduation
November 2010 I’m excited to see what else God has for me, because I know he has more. Suti Sana Graduate Of all the celebrations in my life, the first Suti Sana graduation may be second only to my wedding in importance and excitement. Finally, after six months of classes, sewing training,…
Just a Dog
September 2010 Yet I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; O my God, do not delay. Psalms 40:17 I check my watch. Alina* is half an hour late to Suti Sana, and has just missed our entire devotions. I sigh loudly as…