Beyond Words®

Reflections on the Soul of Leadership

Written by Ruth Haley Barton, each reflection provides spiritual guidance and encouragement for those seeking to be in God for the world.

a light cast shadows on step in the darkness

Staying Awake During Holy Week

By Ruth Haley Barton |

Lectionary readings and guidance on using the lectionary Monday of Holy Week (April 14, 2025): Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 36:5-11, Hebrews 9:11-15, John 12:1-11 “Stay together, friends, don’t scatter and sleep.…

Image of sun breaking through dark clouds with a cross silhouetted against the sky

A Leader’s Prayer During Lent

By Ruth Haley Barton |

Lectionary Readings for Fifth Sunday in Lent (April 6, 2025): Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126, Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8 Lent Calendar (Cycle C) and guidance for using the lectionary “Lent is…

Epiphany: A New Kind of Journey

By Ruth Haley Barton |

Today is the day when the Christian church celebrates epiphany—the “showing forth” or “the revelation” of Christ in the world.…

The Gift of Waiting

By Ruth Haley Barton |

God comes like the sun in the morning—when it is time. We must assume an attitude of waiting, accepting the…

Gratitude for Ordinary People

By Ruth Haley Barton |

“And they shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” Matthew 1:23 As we emerge from Thanksgiving week…

Are You Dangerously Tired? Exploring the Symptoms and Sources of Spiritual Exhaustion in Ministry

By Ruth Haley Barton |

“Because we do not rest we lose our way. Poisoned by this hypnotic belief that good things come only through…

The Transforming Leader: Giving the Best I’ve Got

By Ruth Haley Barton |

Spiritual transformation has become quite the buzzword in Christian circles today. The good news is that it speaks to our…

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Pay attention to the soul of your leadership with a FREE series written by Ruth Haley Barton

  • Reflections written for spiritual leaders delivered over 4 weeks each Saturday morning
  • Includes guidance to listen to what your soul wants to say to God and what God wants to say to your soul
  • Every reflection includes a recording by Ruth that goes deeper into topic.
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