I pray. I place my hands on the pulpit and feel the wood. I sense my feet firmly planted on the floor. I look up and see the stained-glass windows. I hear the soft sound of the blower behind me. I taste the peppermint I just finished. I breathe in the unique scent of this … read
Reflecting on the passage from Mark 3:1-6, why wouldn’t these religious people want someone to be healed? When I came to faith as a college-age adult, that question perplexed me when reading this text. Specifically from a narrative perspective. I mean, the Pharisees were like the pastors, the people who know the Scriptures inside out. … read
One Sunday during fellowship time, two brothers tried to teach me about Star Wars: which movies to watch and in what order. What I got out of that was not an appreciation for the plotline but for the storyteller’s trick of non-chronological releases of prequels and sequels. We usually read Naaman’s story as if it’s … read
The way a crowShook down on meThe dust of snowFrom a Hemlock treeHas given my heartA change of mood,And saved some partOf a day I had rued.—Robert Frost Poet John Ciardi once wrote that we shouldn’t ask “What does a poem mean?” but “How does a poem mean?” The concern is not to arrive at … read
A few months ago, I started seeing references to something called “the nap ministry.” I made assumptions about what it was – an encouragement for folks to take naps. What I wonderful thing, I thought, as someone who is a big believer in naps. But as often happens with our beliefs, be they in naps … read
I am so happy to be a part of this service for my brother Chris. Over the past few years, I have had the absolute joy of watching God work through this amazing man of God. I have witnessed God’s hand on his life, his ministry, and his awesome family. Today is an honor indeed. … read