The power of Black Friday is perceived shortage. This deal is good for a limited time. Thinking about that reminded me of the way Paul talked about God’s abundance. Here’s how Eugene Peterson captures Paul’s words: So don’t let my present trouble on your behalf get you down. Be proud! My response is to get […]

Three quick thoughts: 1. “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus.”‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1:4-5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ 2. A reflection on Thanksgiving Eve. 3. Happy birthday, Joy.

Over the next few days, you may have opportunities for conversations with people you don’t see often. While “what are you thankful for” is a traditional question, I’d like to offer some alternatives. +++ It was a great conversation starter: “If you were a charitable foundation, what kind of problem would you address?” As we […]

I ask the question often: “Are you part of any congregation?” It happens when I’m standing in a hospital room containing some sort of crisis. It happens when someone has indicated that I could pray. It’s a triage kind of question, wanting to know what style of prayer is most appropriate. But when people say, […]

It’s the last Sunday of the church year. The calendar year runs from January 1 to December 31. The church year runs from Advent to Christ the King. A year ago, we started the year with the first Sunday of Advent. The four Sundays of Advent help us prepare for Christ’s second coming by helping […]