Debts or Trespasses?
Do we forgive our debtors or those who trespass against us? I have wondered this from a young age, probably stemming from the moment of mortification when I said “trespasses” and EVERYONE else in the sanctuary said “debts.” Who knew that people memorized a 2000 year old prayer differently? I mean, there are quote marks. […]
What does God believe in me?
What does God believe in me? Now there is a question I had never asked myself. We spend so much time debating the “believability” of God. Do you really believe that? Which has come to mean: Is it true? factual? evidence-based? proven? A host of questions come to mind: But this question, posed to me […]
If I worry, am I bad?
My friend says, “I am not a worrier.” Is that possible? Real? True? Worry and I have known each other a long time. I can’t say I don’t worry. Can’t say I won’t worry. Worry butts in every now and then and, actually, I think that is a healthy thing for me now. But it […]
Will there be turf or grass in heaven?
Now THAT’s the testimony of a kid who loves soccer! No question in her mind that the game awaits, just what the field conditions will be like. And that’s something to think about. Seems that “what awaits” has been a serving on my plate these last few weeks. A larger portion than usual. So, let’s […]
Where life gets real, there is always hope
We lost a young man in our church last Tuesday afternoon. He died as the result of a tragic accident. Suddenly. On the day he graduated from 8th grade. He was a good kid but not perfect – an adventurous boy, a reliable friend, a brother you could count on, a loving son. He regularly […]
A shoe shine minister lightens a weighty week
I met Moses on Wednesday. He was shining shoes in the JW Marriott. Actually, I heard him before I saw him and it was several days before I introduced myself. “The 10 commandments, that’s what I’m talkin’ about!” he almost sang. “Love your neighbor.” This was conversation that came free of charge when you got […]
If it’s so good for us, why don’t we do it?
If exercise is so good for us, why don’t we do it? A parent asked me this as we walked off the training field on Saturday, the kids all smiles having just spent two hours running and stopping, sweating and breathing hard. Playing, in other words. (Don’t tell them it’s exercise.) The parent was a […]
Are we looking for God in all the wrong places?
Are we looking for God in all the wrong places? I mean, so many are not finding Him these days. And the scripture tells us “Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened.” If we’re seeking why are we not finding? We capable and successful people know how to address this. […]
What is so compelling about Twilight?
I have a confession to make. Just to buck the whole rush-around-during-Advent business I ducked into a movie theater last week. Took myself to the last Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn, part 2. No academy award winning acting there, but I love a great story. I felt a bit guilty taking a couple hours off when […]
It’s all in how they read it
“LITTLE PIG, LITTLE PIG, LET ME COME IN!”There, did you read that in a big, deep voice? Reverend Miner says, “I hope so, or you’re not a very good storyteller.” Because you want the child to get the message: when danger comes knocking, don’t let it in. Isn’t it funny how children’s fiction speaks so […]