Our Spotlight Series continues to explore the many ways God shapes our spiritual journeys, often meeting us in unexpected ways and using particular seasons of life to deepen our faith. The stories shared through this series remind us that spiritual growth is not simply about what we know, but how we experience God’s love and allow it to transform the way we live and relate to others.
In this installment, we are pleased to feature Colonel Pat LaBossiere (Assistant Training Principal for Community Life at the College for Officer Training). Through her reflections, Colonel LaBossiere shares how the love of Jesus has brought encouragement and healing during difficult seasons, how spiritual practices help her remain attentive to God’s presence, and how Scripture shapes her understanding of living a Christlike life in community. We invite you to read her story and reflect on the resources, practices, and relationships God is using to shape your own spiritual journey.
Can you share a resource that you can say has made a significant impact on your relationship with Jesus? How has it helped you grow closer to Him?
Gentle & Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane Ortlund. This book was recommended to me at a low point in my life, and I was blessed and encouraged by reading about Jesus’ deep love for me. I know that He loves me, but this timely reminder of the depth of His love brought healing to my heart during some dark days.
Mudhouse Sabbath: An Invitation to a Life of Spiritual Discipline by Lauren F. Winner. The author, a Jewish convert to Christianity, explores spiritual practices from Judaism that can enrich our spiritual lives by incorporating some elements into our own Christian practices. I especially appreciate the idea of Sabbath being the “fundamental unit around which I organize my life”. For Salvation Army officers, finding time/space for a true Sabbath can be a challenge. I aspire to find a “true cessation from the rhythms of work and world, a time wholly set apart, truly oriented toward God.”
What is your favorite worship song, book, or podcast (you can list as many as you would like, but let us know why they are your favorite)?
Lectio 365 – I have been listening to this podcast since 2020, and I have found it to be a meaningful way to read/listen to Scripture using the practice of Lectio Divina. It is a regular touchpoint for my day, and it helps me focus on God and His Word first thing in the morning.
The Place We Find Ourselves, hosted by Adam Young. This podcast explores the concepts of healing, wholeness, and restoration, especially in trauma recovery. I have found it helpful for my own life and in dealing with others who have experienced trauma.
What is the most meaningful Scripture verse to you, and why? If you have more than one, feel free to share- no restrictions.
So much of Scripture is meaningful to me, but a few passages that have stood out to me recently are:
Psalm 34:18, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. I have found this to be true in my own life and have shared this verse many times with people who are struggling with grief or other challenges.
Colossians 3:12-17. I’ve been reading and meditating on this passage a lot recently because it speaks to living a Christ-like life, especially in community. Spiritual Formation takes place in the context of community, and this passage gives me a lot to think about in terms of how I want to live my life.
