One of the many wonderful things you all as congregation do for us pastors is give us study leave, time away from e-mails and phone calls and meetings so that we can delve into something without the usual things buzzing around us. Last week while on study leave I had the opportunity to delve into … read
Last week in his sermon, Gregg mentioned the story of Corrie Ten Boom, in a Nazi concentration camp, thankful for fleas, because the fleas discouraged the Nazi guards from entering her building. And this afternoon is our “Blessing of the Animals” service at 2 p.m. So I am taking the opportunity now to again encourage … read
Three weeks ago, after some very broad hints that I really like Peacemaking Sunday (aka World Communion Sunday), I was invited to preach today. I chose 2 Timothy as my text, because it seemed like the cool kids this fall were preaching from the Timothys. Fast forward to Tuesday of this week and watch me … read
Nothing ensures a wandering mind during the sermon quite like the topic of wealth and poverty. I do wonder how Jesus’ audiences heard all these parables—if they, too tuned out; if they were poor and gave him shouts of encouragement; if they were rich and got mad or felt guilty or changed their ways. As … read
Last month, many of us mourned the death of Frederick Buechner, the famed Presbyterian pastor and author, but we were consoled that his words will outlive him and continue to inspire us. So in my next few sermons, you’ll hear something from Buechner that adds cohesion to the sermon. I hope! Buechner once wrote, “The … read
This week’s scripture reading reminds me of a story that preacher Debie Thomas told about her father’s early childhood in rural India. Her grandparents were devoted members of their church, and it was often the case that elders and preachers spontaneously showed up at their home for lunch after Sunday services. Food was scarce in … read