This week in worship we began a new series called Family Values. The series will explore the intersection of television and theology, especially around issues of family. The term "family values" brings up a lot if images, some helpful and some...well, not so helpful. One of my hopes for this series is that we will…
Three Things…from This Week’s Message
This week in worship we celebrated Epiphany, using the traditional Epiphany text from Matthew's Gospel, Matthew 2:1-12 (CEB). The full text appears at the bottom of this post. We know very little about the actual circumstances surrounding the Magi's visit to see the newborn Jesus. We don't know who they are or exactly where they…
The Gospel According to Christmas Vacation
I was in my early teens when my friends and I went to the movies to see National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. This was one of the first PG-13 movies I remember seeing in the theaters (do you remember those? Before March, we used to go to this building called a theater to see movies) Now…
10 Things I Am Grateful for This Thanksgiving
I always stand in awe of people for whom gratitude is a natural response. It’s Thanksgiving, which means we focus on giving thanks, which means we focus on gratitude. Some people are just grateful by nature. A spirit of gratitude permeates their presence. Maybe this is you. This is not me. I wish it was, but it’s…
Our Mistakes Do Not Define Us
Tiger Woods made a 10 yesterday. When asked how that happened he simply said, "I chose the wrong wind." I was struck by that. How often do we feel like we are flailing around in life, searching for answers and it's as simple as "I chose the wrong wind?”He went on to birdie 5 of…
Election Day
One of the great acts of our democracy is electing the President of the United States. In a divisive election season, the thrill of victory is heightened and the sting of defeat is magnified. We may not also know the results of some races for days. It may very well be a tense time in…
6 Thoughts on Election Day Eve
Many thoughts as we head towards Election Day tomorrow It's incredible to see so many who have already voted through early voting, absentee voting and mail in voting. I also love seeing the pictures of those who are voting for the first time We need to continue to work towards removing obstacles people face when…
Between Memory and Hope: A Reflection for 9/11
We experienced the best and the worst of humanity. We saw the worst in those who flew planes into buildings, believing they were doing God's will. We saw the best in those who gave of themselves in self-less service, those who showed enormous love, compassion and mercy.
Seeing the Holy…in Cobra Kai
Over Labor Day weekend, we finally dove into Cobra Kai. I had cruised past it a couple of times but finally decided to dive in. We made it through Season 1 and are looking forward to Season 2. The Karate Kid is an 80s classic (never-mind the sequels) and Ralph Macchio doesn't age, so we…
Braving the Wilderness Series Preview
The world has never seen anything like this. Plans wrecked, sickness wreaking havoc, entire countries sent into exile. Oh... you thought I was talking about the last six months or so. I might be, but I also could be referring to the 13th century BCE and the events of the book in the Hebrew Bible that is the Exodus.
