To me, the best parts of the Christmas are when we can hit pause on the busy button and do just that: breathe. Marvel at the glossy wrapping paper and glittery bows. Sigh in wonder at the sparkling lights on the nine-foot-tall tree inside the bank. Close my eyes and offer a silent prayer of appreciation as I cuddle on the couch with my husband and little ones, grateful for all things God brings—good and bad and the gray somewhere in between. A column by Advocate Editor Jessica Brodie.

So once again it’s a new year, a time when we make resolutions. All of us desire a clean slate to bring change to our circumstances and improve our quality of life. A column by Bishop L. Jonathan Holston.

By Jessica Brodie. Three models—one far left, one far right, one smack in the middle. Three starting points for the future of The United Methodist Church. Which path is best? These? Another? None? Only God knows. And He does know.

By Bishop L. Jonathan Holston. Prayer focuses us to listen attentively for God to speak. As Mary wrestled with what it meant for her to bear the Son of God, so must we wrestle with what it means to carry the good news of God’s son into today’s world.

By Jessica Brodie. There I was, zipping through the forest on two wheels and a metal frame, knuckles clenched tight, helmet rattling, knees pumping furiously and a crazed grin on my face. That’s right—for the first time in who-knows-how-many years, I got back on the proverbial bike. Oh, the lessons I learned.

The cabinet and I have met the Hulapalooza Challenge, and now it is your turn! By Bishop Jonathan Holston.

Read the 20th narrative accepted for publication (this one by Delaine Armetta Frierson) in the Advocate’s project to help foster racial awareness, dialogue and reconciliation.

If you’re hired to be a cashier and show up for work in a freshly laundered uniform with a bright smile, a winning personality and a strong work ethic but are willing to do everything but ring up orders, then you’re not a cashier. If we are a Christian but aren’t willing to share the Lord with others (one of our most important job duties!), then how can we be a Christian? By Jessica Brodie.

By Bishop L. Jonathan Holston. Across the Caribbean, Texas and Florida, the devastation of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria is extensive. While there is tremendous evidence of God’s faithfulness in our midst, we recognize that these are trying times that are overwhelming and often lead us to think there is nothing we can do to help.

Read the 19th narrative accepted for publication (this one by the Rev. Elizabeth Murray) in the Advocate’s project to help foster racial awareness, dialogue and reconciliation.

In her latest column, Advocate Editor Jessica Brodie reflects on faith and the eclipse—and what she might be letting eclipse the Son in her own life.

In his latest column, Bishop Jonathan Holston reflects on the eclipse, Chatlottesville and the church's commitment to witness, advocacy and prayer.