When our church began a sermon series a few Sundays ago, I shared about the significant correlation between a church’s spiritual health and the health of a church’s giving by using the example of giving as a spiritual thermometer. Our giving says something about our faith and our relationship with God. The story of the widow’s… Continue reading sacrifices and offerings and tithes…oh my!
Tag: greater things
Why I want to be a player in the cosmic drama
In the midst of teetering economies, droughts in Africa, and the grief stricken city of Oslo, we may wonder how we as Christians can contribute anything of significance in God’s cosmic plans for the earth. How can Pastor Harry’s suggestion of focusing 400 hours even begin to make a dent? And yet, I am reminded… Continue reading Why I want to be a player in the cosmic drama
So you want to be missional?
For some time now, I have reflected deeply on what it means to encourage the church to become more missional. I am reminded of a parable that Jesus shared in Luke 14, “”Is there anyone here who, planning to build a new house, doesn’t first sit down and figure the cost so you’ll know if… Continue reading So you want to be missional?
We can, we will, we are… a sermon about the real meaning of Pentecost, Part 2
Peter continues this “first sermon” by telling the story of Jesus with power and authority. He tells of his crucifixion and his resurrection. And in verse 36 with a new assurance and power he says, “Let all Israel be assured of this; God has made this Jesus… This Jesus who was also a half breed, a mix… Continue reading We can, we will, we are… a sermon about the real meaning of Pentecost, Part 2
We can, we will, we are… a sermon about the real meaning of Pentecost, Part 1
Recently, Harry and I had the privilege of watching our youngest son graduate from High School. We watched attentively as bright eyed students from all over the world gathered on the stage full of joy for the season that was now coming to an end, but also full of questions and even some fear about… Continue reading We can, we will, we are… a sermon about the real meaning of Pentecost, Part 1
Beautiful things…
Recently a high school student in our congregation introduced me to a new song, “Beautiful Things” to use in one of our worship services. Ever since I heard the song, I have continued to sing and repeat a line of the song over and over to myself… “You make beautiful things out of the dust…” Yes, it… Continue reading Beautiful things…
It’s Monday
It’s Monday… the festivities of Easter have come and gone… we remembered together the significance of Christ’s resurrection… we sang Hallelujah’s and feasted our eyes upon majestic colors and easter flowers… our ears are still ringing with resurrection songs… but what difference will it make today? This was the topic of the yesterday’s sermon… what does… Continue reading It’s Monday
completion
Since Harry and I have been exploring the meaning and benefits of the Sabbath over the past several months, I find myself drawn to the significance of Jesus’ Sabbath rest in the tomb. Just as God created the heavens and the earth and then rested because it was good and complete… God’s love for creation and humanity were made… Continue reading completion
some thoughts on relinquishing
A few years ago, I found myself going through a very dry time in my ministry. I found myself feeling tired, burnout, uncreative, and a little calloused. I was scheduled to spend a weekend at a local retreat center for prayer and reflection… this was not what I wanted to do… I really didn’t want… Continue reading some thoughts on relinquishing
the inspiration of others
There are moments in our lives when God uses people to inspire us and till up some of the hard soil in order to prepare us for the new growth that he is bringing about. I will never forget attending a recent homecoming event at Eastern Mennonite University and hearing the recipient of the Distinguished… Continue reading the inspiration of others