Today’s gospel reading from Mark is guaranteed to raise one’s heart rate a bit as Jesus begins to tell the disciples about signs of the end of the age. This entire chapter in Mark’s gospel is called the little apocalypse … read full post
The trajectory of Mark’s gospel is so very interesting. The central section of Mark’s gospel focuses on Jesus’ teaching about discipleship, and it is book-ended by two stories of Jesus healing persons who are blind. Today’s story of blind Bartimaeus, … read full post
As Rich just reminded us this morning, we have come to that time of year when we intentionally place a focus on Stewardship. So, it is fitting that we are given a gospel reading that speaks about wealth, money and … read full post
I’ve really been struggling with these texts since I learned I’d be preaching today The scripture selections this week have been used in harmful ways They’ve been used to promote women’s subservience to men They’ve been used to shame … read full post
One of the things I just love about scripture is that the stories we read and hear are truly our stories. They are about us and tell us so much about our identity as human beings. And, today’s reading is … read full post
St. Thomas Aquinas once said, “Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take over within us, it drives compassion right out of our hearts.” Change, transition, uncertainty, chaos and earth-shattering news all create … read full post
This pandemic has presented anyone in a leadership position with multiple challenges that were unforeseen. There’s no “playbook” for leadership when the stakes are high, and there’s certainly no playbook for what to do in the face of a 21st … read full post
It is good to be back with you. I am deeply grateful for the time I spent away. It was wonderful to let go of all the clutter in life and the clutter in my head. It was refreshing to … read full post
Grace to you and Peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor Ellen sent me a sermon that she used a few years ago when we had the Gospel lesson we are using today. She told me … read full post
I mentioned in last week’s sermon that, while I feel joy as we regather, I am also feeling a certain kind of grief and sadness. I grieve because I know the church is not going to be what it was … read full post