Sheep, the Good Shepherd, and Promises

The following is the majority of the sermon that I preached at Messiah Lutheran Church this weekend based on the readings for Easter 4C, “Good Shepherd Sunday.” The readings included: Psalm 23, Revelation 7:9-17, and John 10:22-30. I did something I don’t usually do when preaching, breaking into a couple short Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and/or camp songs. Special thanks goes to Allison for … Continue reading Sheep, the Good Shepherd, and Promises

Passion, Heartbreak, and Hope – The Start of Holy Week

With the procession of palms, Christians around the globe start the celebration of Holy Week. For the western church, Palm Sunday (or Sunday of the Passion) is tomorrow, marking the beginning of the week that ends with the resurrection on Easter. We remember Christ’s passion, beginning with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We remember and join with the chorus of “Hosanna! Blessed is he who … Continue reading Passion, Heartbreak, and Hope – The Start of Holy Week

Rock

As I have done in previous Lents I am sharing a daily reflection as part of my Lenten discipline. This year I am using the “Wilderness Wanderings” theme compiled by the “Lent Photo a Day” group. The word appointed for today is “Rock.” On a clear day, as I drove to the north Clark County site where I am serving as mission developer, I can look out … Continue reading Rock

Peace & Freedom- Days 22 & 23 of Advent

Christmas Eve is tomorrow, and I need to catch up on these posts. I am writing as I currently sit in a hospital waiting room. I’m here on a visit for a congregational member about to go into surgery. It might seem to be a weird place to start reflecting about peace and freedom, but I think it makes sense. There’s a sense of peace … Continue reading Peace & Freedom- Days 22 & 23 of Advent

Promise and Doubt – Days 13 and 14 of Advent

During Advent this year, I will be reflecting daily using this Advent Photo Devotional. The word designated for yesterday, December 11th was #Promise, and the word for today, December 12th is #Doubt.  I am going to do something a little out of the norm with this post. I am going to give you a two-for-one, with two pictures. I am doing this because for me, … Continue reading Promise and Doubt – Days 13 and 14 of Advent

Eternal- Day 9 of Advent

During Advent this year, I will be reflecting daily using this Advent Photo Devotional. The word designated for December 7th was #Eternal. Admittedly, I am a few days behind, but I am trying to catch up on the series.  One of my grandpa’s served in the navy during World War II, and after the war he would serve as an English teacher, dean of students, … Continue reading Eternal- Day 9 of Advent