Many years ago I was the interim pastor at a small church and was free to celebrate Pentecost without regard to that congregation’s tradition. We decided that it would be confirmation day for the small group of youth who had been going to classes and they wanted red balloons among other things. This was long … Read More
Joy is a slow-growing, steadfast thing. It’s also not as fleeting as I once thought. I believed until quite recently that joy was an infrequent and reluctant visitor in my life. It would occasionally land for a few days and then flit away and I’d be left with comforting memories. I’ve discovered that it isn’t … Read More
Words, actions, and promise chase each other through this week’s readings. Peter speaks and Tabitha returns to life in Acts. The Shepherd’s promise of life and presence is clear in Psalm 23. Revelation is all about the promise of life yet to come. In John, the crowds have seen Jesus’ actions and they want clear, … Read More
During my years as a clinical chaplain in a psychiatric facility, I met several people who had committed horrific crimes while in a psychotic state. Generally, these were individuals who were kind and gentle when they were well. They also struggled to believe that they could be forgiven for what they had done. I had many … Read More
Here’s a little meditation that came to me while preparing worship for this week. If you’re preaching and looking or sermon help, you might want to try here. But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. On the first day … Read More
On February 14, 1983 I woke up in the local emergency room and I was not happy. Apparently, I had woken up in my room at home and made it downstairs before passing out. My mother then called 911 because she could not wake me up. Sometime later, I woke up in the hospital. By … Read More
When thou passeth through the waters I will be with thee. When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not burn. Neither shall the flames kindle upon thee for I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel and thou art mine. I cannot tell you how many times I have sung these … Read More
A few days after my mother died, I went to church. I wasn’t preaching so I thought I would be okay being there for worship. Many people said, “Why are you here?” or “You shouldn’t be here.” They meant well. But where else would I go in the early days of grief? Yes, church is … Read More
Come, let us pray for the body of Christ as it gathers throughout the world. (people may silently or quietly voice their prayers) Holy God of all times, places, and peoples, remind us that your way is the path we seek. Let us walk in peacefully and seek unity with all who call your name. … Read More
The fourth Sunday of Advent is the perfect time for the story of Gabriel and Mary because it’s all about love–God’s great love for humanity and Mary’s willingness to bring that love into the world. This passage overflows with all the improbable possibilities God imagines for the whole of humanity. I have this vivid image in my … Read More
Interested in spiritual direction or learning more about it to decide whether it's for you? Curious whether you can afford it? Wondering if Rachael Keefe is available to speak to your group or present at your conference on mental health and faith or suicide prevention and the church?
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