Prophecy, Patience, and Promise Advent is a season of expectation, the word itself meaning “coming.” Many families spend these four weeks waiting for children to come home from college, or for grandparents to come for Christmas dinner. For young children, … read full post
Old Problems and New Beginnings By now the last of the leaves have likely fallen from trees in northern climes, and any still holding on look dry and dead. Snow has arrived, and its thick blanket shows the stains of … read full post
Over the years, I have participated in a few hundred weddings. For most of them I served as the musician. And, since I have been ordained, I have officiated for several weddings. Through this plethora of wedding experiences, there is … read full post
We Embody the Presence of Christ It is possible that the biggest barrier to accepting this as our lifelong vocation is not a lack of faith but a lack of imagination. On this final Sunday of the liturgical year, we … read full post
20171122ThanksgivingEve … read full post
Awake to the Grace of God Linked with the reading from 1 Thessalonians and Psalm 90, Jesus’ parable of the talents invites a full-hearted response to God’s lavish gifts of faith and purpose: “Use ‘em if you’ve got ‘em!” The … read full post
Trusting in God, Trusting with God Human beings are relational creatures. We are created to be in relationship with one another and with God. No one, no matter how independent or disconnected they may feel they are, functions completely outside … read full post
Know God, Know Ourselves This is a Sunday packed with beautiful images, deep-seeded ideas, and a rich history. For life-long Lutherans, these things can provoke a sense of pride in our denomination, but Reformation Sunday is not “Lutheran Pride Day.” … read full post
What’s in Your Wallet? Not Enough. Say the word stewardship in some congregations and people are protectively guarding their wallets faster than you can say “pledge card!” Unfortunately, too often we associate stewardship exclusively with issues of money. The good … read full post
Expensive Wedding. Expensive Grace. On a recent reality TV show entitled Wedding Wars, engaged couples competed for a complete wedding wardrobe. The winning couple received the bride’s dress and the groom’s tuxedo as well as proper attire for their … read full post
