Advent was kind of a mystery to me as a kid. I liked the candles and the music, the special services, and the hanging of the greens. But Advent as a season of waiting, preparing, anticipating was lost on me. It just meant that Christmas was close, and that was a good thing. My junior … Read More
Here’s a poem from my book, Negotiating the Shadows. It’s based on the Mark text for this week. A Widow’s Wisdom a simple offering outweighed all others combined two copper coins almost without value took on significance she gave to You all she had with intent others offered bits pieces of notable value thinking they honor You … Read More
May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. I don’t know about you, but I am appalled by the news of churches burning in St. Louis. Six black churches in a week and mainstream media has barely picked up the story! Why is it that when an oppressed people cries for justice … Read More
Many years ago while I was serving my first church as associate pastor, I horrified two elderly women one afternoon. It was a late summer or early fall day and I happened to be the only one in the office when these ladies stopped by. I went to open the door and they noticed my … Read More
Come, let us pray for the Church throughout the world. (silence or a time for people to quietly give voice to their concerns) Eternal God, “Teach us to count our days that we may gain a wise heart.” Too often we complain like Job when suffering is unfair while at the same time turning from … Read More
Some weeks come with their very own theme. I’m not sure exactly how it happens, but this week I’ve had many conversations about seeing the “other.” The conversations were with colleagues, parishioners, friends, and my wife. The specific topics included systemic racism, rights for undocumented immigrants, refugees, politics, and even self-hatred. Seeing, recognizing, acknowledging the … Read More
After a short though very intense week, I find myself asking if it isn’t too late to go back to the weeks of “bread?” I know clergy often find those weeks to be repetitive and, therefore, challenging. However, these tense encounters with Jesus in Mark’s gospel might cause discomfort more than challenge. Last week was … Read More
Rest. Relaxation. Renewal. Restoration. These are enticing words. I often associate them with summer. During the summer season I tend to believe there really is more time and a slower pace to life. And every summer at about this time I realize that it is simply not true. The world does not slow down or … 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
One: With churches burning and hate mail flying, All: we shy away thinking that has nothing to do with me. One: With bombs dropping on faraway cities, All: we turn off the news and put up our feet up in comfort. One: With ebola still claiming lives in Africa, All: … Read More
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