Monday, April 29, 2019 | Reflections
Mark places the baptism of Jesus right at the very beginning of his gospel—no annunciation, no nativity story, just straight into the action—telling us about a voice from heaven declaring Jesus as God’s beloved son. Mark’s story sounds very much like the way we...
Sunday, April 28, 2019 | Reflections
Every once in a while, we come across a story that we just cannot believe, and the disciples are no different. Thomas is slow to believe the good news of Jesus’ resurrection—but he is not slow to grasp its implications as he cries out, “My Lord and my God!”...
Saturday, April 27, 2019 | Reflections
Each of us is called into ministry with Jesus in some way that uses our special gifts and talents. Jesus’ last instructions to his apostles are to proclaim the good news of salvation to the people of Israel and all the nations. God’s love and gift of salvation is for...
Friday, April 26, 2019 | Reflections
Think for a moment about people you truly love—heroines and heroes, family members, teachers, or camp counselors. When we love people, we have special thoughts or memories tied to them. So it is natural for the psalmist to speak of a deep, personal love for God. Psalm...
Thursday, April 25, 2019 | Reflections
The disciples have been on the ultimate emotional roller coaster. With Christ, they have witnessed many miracles, been taught how to treat each other and the world, been given power to heal and cast out demons, and have sat at Jesus’ feet to glean and marvel over his...
Wednesday, April 24, 2019 | Reflections
The longest walk we will ever experience is away from the gravesite of a loved one. This walk evokes many emotions, as memories flash before our eyes of how things used to be. Luke describes the two people on the road to Emmaus as being in deep despair, attempting to...
Tuesday, April 23, 2019 | Reflections
How often have you thought, “If I only had one more day, one more hour, one more moment, I would do things differently”? Although it is impossible to turn back time, we are given each new day to start again—a fresh opportunity to see life differently ….(View...
Monday, April 22, 2019 | Reflections
Matthew includes the discipleship of Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph throughout his Passion narrative. He highlights their presence at the crucifixion and the tomb as well as being the first witnesses to the resurrection. Regardless...
Sunday, April 21, 2019 | Reflections
My mom was a magnificent cook. She would change ingredients and seasonings, turning an old recipe into a totally new and different offering. Former recipes were not remembered—new ingredients transformed an old dish into something new. Jesus too knows all...
Saturday, April 20, 2019 | Reflections
In our Old Testament reading, Job is having a personal pity party, feeling his life is hopeless. To be honest, Job has every reason to feel this way. He has lost his children, property, and livelihood. Job is suffering indescribable pain and loneliness....
Friday, April 19, 2019 | Reflections
When Good Friday draws near and we remember the sounds of the nails and the shadows of Golgotha, we should also remember who we are as beloved members of the body of Christ. Hopefully this day will remind us of the One who loved us enough to suffer and die for us....
Thursday, April 18, 2019 | Reflections
In my work, I am often afforded the grace of being present with people during their death processes. There are many “blessin’s and lessons” witnessed in these sacred moments and quiet rooms. Occasionally, the person dying may want to leave a message f….(View...
Wednesday, April 17, 2019 | Reflections
As a member of the body of Christ, I am grateful to be surrounded with a great cloud of witnesses, past and present. I love that I am welcomed and encouraged to sit with those who will both comfort and challenge me. I want to hear sermons that cause discomfort...
Tuesday, April 16, 2019 | Reflections
All of us have weaknesses and limitations—emotional, spiritual, or physical. These characteristics are there for a reason. God’s best work is accomplished using weak, broken, and wounded people to transform communities into forces that can accomplish great things. The...
Monday, April 15, 2019 | Reflections
New tree saplings require support to ensure they grow upright. Once a sapling grows strong enough, the supports are removed and the tree remains straight, having grown strong inside and out. Old Testament laws provide an external support to the growing children of...
