There is an old Chinese proverb which teaches us that you cannot prevent the birds of sorrow from flying over your head, but you can prevent them from building nests in your hair. I think that sort of sums up what Paul is saying in these verses from the last chapter of his letter to … read
It occurred to me, as Gregg and I watched last Tuesday’s presidential debate, that neither candidate displayed any knowledge of this particular scriptural passage, which encourages those who follow Jesus to live a life of self-emptying and humility. Of course, I did not expect to see that in the debate, though both candidates are Christian. … read
This month I will be preaching on texts from the Letter to the Philippians. I love the letter to the Philippians—it is so sincere and wise and loving. Many of you know that I will be leaving Westminster at the end of September, and I chose my final sermons with you to be on some … read
True confession: I have been fascinated by some of the fashion choices at last week’s Democratic National Convention. I do know that what a person wears is really insignificant compared to the ideas and ideals they have, but still: political conventions are largely theater, and what’s a good show without costumes? Early in the week, … read
This is one of those weeks when I asked myself why I chose this particular passage, but there was something that resonated deeply for me with these words of Paul. The text both grounded me, reminding me that through Christ all things are possible, and the text challenged me, urging me to see that Christ … read
You may remember the race riots in Los Angeles in March of 1991, an eruption following the four police officers brutally beating Rodney King, who was pulled over for driving while intoxicated. The beating was captured on video, and it ignited a simmering rage in the Black community in Los Angeles. You may also remember … read