“What are you wearing?” As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds … [Read more…]
“Breaking out of the Church Bubble” Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” Luke 15:1-2 One of the difficulties I have when I preach without notes is that sometimes I forget … [Read more…]
Acts of Love When I was a kid, my grandparents decided to downsize from their lake home to a double-wide trailer in a semi-senior citizen trailer park. The park was nice. Quiet streets, a clubhouse, trees. But best of all, there was a community pool. I loved spending my days in the sun, splashing around … [Read more…]
“The Same Place” On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After this he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they … [Read more…]
“Last Words” It’s 9:00 am Friday morning as I write this, the time scripture tells us Jesus was nailed to the cross. Scriptures record 7 statements Jesus shared while he hung in agony upon that cross. This morning, I share those statements with you to consider. Father, forgive them; for they do not know what … [Read more…]
“How’s Your Breath” There’s an old song in our Hymnal titled Breathe on Me, Breath of God by Edwin Hatch. In case you’re not familiar with it, here’s the first verse: Breathe on me, Breath of God, fill me with life a-new, that I may love what thou dost love, and do what thou wouldst … [Read more…]
“Overloaded” I’ve been reflecting on the life and story of Moses lately. Among other things, Moses’ story is about learning how to be a leader. Moses is called into leadership and, like many of us, he isn’t ready. God continues to teach Moses lessons along the way and helps him become the leader Israel needs. … [Read more…]
“Software Update” On the seventh day God rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.” Genesis 2:2-3 The other morning, I was working my way through some emails that needed responses and a … [Read more…]
“I Thought It Was Just Me” Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.“ Ephesians 4:25 Do you ever feel anxious or alone, like you are not living up to your potential while everyone else around you is achieving great things? … [Read more…]
“A Unique Opportunity” The other night I began reading the last of the books I received for Christmas, Let Us Dream, by Pope Francis. I was excited when I put this on my book list prior to Christmas, but for some reason I put off reading it. I don’t know a ton about Pope Francis. … [Read more…]