2025-06-29T13:18:24-04:00

The Hand of Grace:

June 29, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

✋ A Five-Finger Prayer for a Faithful Life

(shared during worship at Linden Park Community United Church)

Have you ever looked at your own hand and seen a prayer?

I recently started praying with my fingers. No fancy words—just five simple requests that come from the heart. Each one is anchored in scripture and rooted in my deep longing to walk closer with God. I call it the Five-Finger Prayer, and it’s become a daily rhythm, a spiritual check-in, and a beautiful reminder of how God shapes us, one step (or finger) at a time.

Let me walk you through it.

👍 Take Me

Romans 12:1 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

It all begins here: surrender. I offer myself to God. All of me—my plans, my fears, my gifts, and even my broken pieces. I hold nothing back. This isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about saying, “Here I am, Lord. Take me.”

☝️ Love Me

Jeremiah 31:3 – “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

After surrender comes the hard part: receiving. Sometimes it’s easier to believe that God loves others than to believe He truly loves me. But He does—with a love that never lets go. Every day, I pray, “Love me, Lord.” Not because I doubt Him—but because I need to be reminded.

🖕 Wash Me

Psalm 51:2 – “Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.”

This is the tallest finger. For me, it represents my need for God’s grace. We all carry things we wish we didn’t. Guilt. Shame. Regret. But the good news? God doesn’t just cover over our sin—He cleanses it. “Wash me, Lord,” I pray. “Make me new again.”

💍 Fill Me

Ephesians 5:18 – “Be filled with the Spirit.”

The ring finger symbolizes union, covenant, and connection. It reminds me that I can’t do this alone. I need the Spirit to fill me—again and again. I ask for strength, wisdom, peace, and joy. “Fill me, Lord. Pour into me what I can’t find on my own.”

🤏 Use Me

Isaiah 6:8 – “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

This is the pinky. It is the smallest finger, but it reminds me God can use even the smallest act. Even the simplest “yes.” I don’t need to be famous, perfect, or powerful. I just need to be willing. “Use me, Lord,” I whisper. “Wherever. However. I’m yours.”

👐 A Daily Practice

Sometimes when I don’t know what to pray, I just hold out my hand and go finger by finger:

Take me
Love me
Wash me
Fill me
Use me

Simple. Honest. Transformative.

🙏 Want to try it?

Take a moment. Look at your hand. And pray this with me:

“Take me, Lord. I surrender all that I am.
Love me. Let me receive the fullness of Your grace.
Wash me clean of anything that holds me back.
Fill me with Your Spirit and Your strength.
Use me to bring hope, peace, and love to the world.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let this prayer shape your day. Let your hand remind you that you’re held, loved, and sent.

📌 If this blessed you, you are welcome to print the Five-Finger Prayer Card. You can also share it with someone who might need it.

Thank you for reading, commenting, and subscribing to receive my blog updates.

🧶 Spin & Pray With Me: Finding Calm in the Craft

May 7, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

There’s something sacred about the rhythm of spinning.
The gentle pull of fiber through your fingers.
The quiet whir of the spindle or wheel.
The way time slows just enough for your heart to catch up with your breath.

This week, I wanted to share a simple practice that’s become part of my spiritual rhythm: spinning as prayer.

✨ Why Spin & Pray?

We often think of prayer as words. Spoken. Whispered. Written down.
But there’s another kind — the quiet prayer of presence.
The kind that happens when your hands are busy and your spirit is open.

Spinning wool offers that invitation.
It lets us settle into stillness while our bodies stay gently in motion.
It becomes a space to:

Offer our worries and hopes
Sit with grief, joy, or longing
Hold names of loved ones in our hearts
Simply rest in God’s presence

📖 A Scripture for the Spinner’s Heart

“In quietness and trust is your strength.” – Isaiah 30:15

This verse has anchored me more times than I can count.
In the stillness of crafting — especially spinning — I have found a quiet. This quiet not only calms the mind but also nourishes the soul.

🙏 How to Try It

Want to spin and pray with me? Here’s how you can try it:

Set a gentle mood
Light a candle. Play soft music. Sit somewhere peaceful.
Gather your fiber and spindle or wheel
Nothing fancy is needed — just what feels right in your hands.
Start with a deep breath
Let go of your to-do list. Let your shoulders drop. You’re here now.
Spin and listen
You don’t need words. Just the rhythm. Just the wool. Just the moment.
If a prayer rises up, say it
If not, let the spinning be the prayer.

🧘 A Space for Everyone

You don’t need to be “religious” to find meaning in this practice.
Spin & Pray is for anyone seeking a little more peace, presence, and purpose in their craft.

You can sit with me during one of these moments. I’ve shared a new video on YouTube. In it, we spin and pray together. You’re warmly invited.

👉 Watch now: Spin & Pray With Me

💜 Until next time — spin gently, pray deeply, and stay grounded in grace.
— Barbara @ Doll Can Create

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians

March 26, 2025March 26, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As we approach the final days of Lent, we reflect on the transformative message of Ephesians. This powerful letter reminds us of our calling to walk in the light, redeem our time, and stand firm in faith. Let’s journey together through these last days, drawing strength from God’s Word.

Walking in the Light (Day 23)
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8

Lent is a season of transformation. We were once in darkness, but Christ has made us light. Today, take time to reflect: How is God calling you to shine His light in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your light. Let my actions reflect Your truth and goodness. Amen.

Redeeming the Time (Day 24)
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:16

Time is a precious gift. Lent reminds us to refocus, using our time wisely for God’s glory. Consider how you are spending your days—are distractions pulling you away from His purpose?

Prayer: Father, teach me to use my time for Your kingdom. May my choices reflect Your wisdom. Amen.

Submitting to One Another (Day 25)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21

True submission is about humility and love. How can you serve others with a heart that mirrors Christ’s love? This Lenten season, seek ways to live out His command to love one another.

Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of humility. Help me to serve and love others as You have loved me. Amen.

Strength in the Lord (Day 26)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

Lent can be a time of spiritual challenge, but our strength comes from God. In times of struggle, we must lean on Him. Where do you need His strength today?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in Your strength, not my own. Equip me for the journey ahead. Amen.

The Armor of God (Day 27)
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11

Paul calls us to wear the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Each piece equips us to stand firm in our faith. Are you clothed in His armor daily?

Prayer: Father, clothe me in Your armor. May I stand firm in faith and truth. Amen.

Praying in the Spirit (Day 28)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18

Prayer is our direct line to God. As we prepare for Holy Week, let us deepen our connection with Him. How can you cultivate a habit of prayer in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to pray continually. May my heart always be turned toward You. Amen.

Boldness in Christ (Day 29)
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” – Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul asked for boldness in sharing the gospel. This Holy Week, let’s pray for courage to live and speak our faith. Where is God calling you to step out in boldness?

Prayer: Lord, give me courage to share Your love with others. May I be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Grace Be With You (Day 30)
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” – Ephesians 6:24

As Lent comes to a close, we rest in God’s grace. His love sustains us beyond this season. May our journey not end here, but continue with renewed faith and devotion.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your grace. May I walk in Your love always. Amen.

As we conclude our Lenten journey, let’s carry these lessons into our daily lives. May we continue walking in light, redeeming our time, submitting in love, standing strong, and boldly proclaiming Christ’s message. May His grace sustain us in every season. Amen.

Daily Bread: A Reflection

March 23, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

The Lord’s Prayer in Many Forms

Have you ever prayed the Lord’s Prayer in another language?
I recall singing it in French, German, Dutch, Latin, and even French Sign Language.
It’s a prayer that unites us across cultures and time.

The Meaning of Daily Bread

Jesus taught us to pray for “daily bread”—our needs, not our wants.
The Israelites in the wilderness received manna each day, just enough for that day.
Trusting God means relying on God daily, not storing up out of fear.

More Than Physical Bread

Jesus is the “Bread of Life,” offering spiritual nourishment.
We need Scripture and faith as much as we need food.
Gratitude should be a part of our daily prayers.

Generosity & Trust

We often hold onto too much—possessions, worries, control.
How much do we truly need? Can we share more with others?
Sometimes, we are the answer to someone’s prayer through kindness and generosity.

Living Out Our Faith

Faith isn’t just about Sunday prayers; it’s about daily trust and action.
We should be mindful of how we engage with others.
A simple smile or greeting could be the encouragement someone needs.

Give Us This Day

The prayer doesn’t say “give us bread for the month”—it’s a daily act of trust.
We give thanks for what we have and trust in God’s continued provision.
How will you share God’s love today?

Amen.

Lenten Devotions for Days 15-22

March 19, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction: Finding Strength in the Psalms

As we journey through Lent, we are invited to draw closer to God through reflection, repentance, and renewal. The Psalms serve as a rich source of encouragement, reminding us of God’s presence in every season of life—whether we are seeking His protection, thirsting for His presence, or crying out for His mercy.

In this week’s readings (Days 15–22), we will walk through psalms that highlight themes of trust, forgiveness, longing, and divine shelter. These passages offer a place of refuge in times of struggle and a song of praise in moments of renewal. Each day provides an opportunity to meditate on God’s faithfulness and to respond with prayer, inviting Him to work in our hearts during this sacred season.

As you engage with these psalms, consider how they resonate with your Lenten journey. What fears or burdens do you need to surrender? How is God calling you to deeper trust? May these readings strengthen your faith and remind you that He is your light, your portion, and your ever-present help.

Let me know if these readings bless you in any way.

Blessings,

Pastor Barb

Day 15: Psalm 27 – Confidence in God’s Protection

📖 Reading: Psalm 27:1-5
🙏 Reflection: The Lord is our light and salvation; whom shall we fear? This psalm reminds us that God is our refuge and strength.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Reflect on a time when God has been your stronghold. Ask for renewed trust in His protection.

Day 16: Psalm 32 – The Joy of Forgiveness

📖 Reading: Psalm 32:1-7
🙏 Reflection: This psalm celebrates the blessing of being forgiven. Confession brings freedom, and God’s mercy covers all sin.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Spend time in confession and thanksgiving for God’s unfailing forgiveness.

Day 17: Psalm 42 – Thirsting for God

📖 Reading: Psalm 42:1-5
🙏 Reflection: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You.” In times of dryness, God remains our living water.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Ask God to deepen your hunger for Him and to satisfy your spiritual thirst.

Day 18: Psalm 51 – A Clean Heart

📖 Reading: Psalm 51:10-17
🙏 Reflection: David’s cry for mercy is a model for repentance. God delights in a broken and contrite heart.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for a renewed heart and spirit, asking God to restore your joy.

Day 19: Psalm 63 – Seeking God First

📖 Reading: Psalm 63:1-8
🙏 Reflection: David longs for God in a dry and weary land. True satisfaction comes only from seeking Him.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Dedicate your day to seeking God first in all you do.

Day 20: Psalm 73 – God is My Portion

📖 Reading: Psalm 73:21-26
🙏 Reflection: When our hearts fail, God remains our strength and portion forever.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Meditate on what it means for God to be your portion and your inheritance.

Day 21: Psalm 91 – Resting in God’s Shadow

📖 Reading: Psalm 91:1-4
🙏 Reflection: Those who dwell in God’s presence will find rest and protection under His wings.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for peace and security in the shelter of the Almighty.

Day 22: Psalm 121 – My Help Comes from the Lord

📖 Reading: Psalm 121:1-8
🙏 Reflection: The Lord watches over you and will not let your foot slip. He is your keeper.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Lift up your concerns and trust God to be your help and keeper.

The Lenten Blanket: Embracing Imperfection and Seeking the Sacred

March 5, 2025March 5, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

My Lenten Blanket as a Spiritual Practice

I started my Lenten project, a log cabin-style blanket, but quickly realized I didn’t like the pattern I had chosen. So, I changed it to something that felt more natural.
This blanket is made from my handspun, all Canadian wool—Shetland from Nova Scotia and a Bluefaced Leicester/Merino blend from Ontario.
Just like the season of Lent, this project is about creating a daily rhythm of prayer, meditation, and reflection as I knit.

Embracing Imperfection and Growth

As I knit, I notice how some stitches are uneven and messy, just like life. But both the perfect and the imperfect pieces come together to create something whole.
I considered ripping it out and starting over, but I decided to embrace the imperfections, knowing that growth happens in the process.
This reminds me of the Lenten journey—accepting where I am while also striving for transformation.

Feeding My Soul and Finding Gratitude

At Bible study this morning, we talked about the “bread of life” and how we nourish our souls—not just with food, but through prayer, community, and the things we take in daily.
I ask myself: How am I feeding my soul today? What am I doing to strengthen my relationship with the Divine?
Gratitude is a powerful practice. When I take a moment to notice the blessings around me, everything shifts.

As I continue knitting this blanket, stitch by stitch, I’m reminded that Lent is not about perfection—it’s about the journey. Each day, I’ll show up, knit a little, pray a little, and reflect on the ways I can grow. Some days will be smooth, and others will feel messy, but all of it is part of something bigger.

So, I invite you to join me in this rhythm. Take a moment to reflect, to pray, to create, and most of all, to notice the blessings around you. We are all works in progress, but together, we are being shaped into something whole. God bless. I look forward to sharing this journey with you.

You can find the 10 row blanket here: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/ten-stitch-blanket

Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

Tag: prayer