Rustlings (February 16, 2021)
This week the Season of Lent begins. This holy season offers us the opportunity to know God better. Traditionally, we explore the adult life of Jesus – his teachings, actions and passion. These weeks lead us to God’s most profound, self-giving act of love in crucifixion and resurrection. Our Sunday worship theme for this Lenten […]
The Branch—February 16, 2021
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Rustlings (February 8, 2021)
History has never been my strong suit. I understand its value. I hold a deep appreciation for those who retain and relay it for our benefit. However, the past is not my primary field of focus. I am also not much of a worrier. I have dreams, hopes, and plans on my calendar, but the […]
The Branch—February 8, 2021
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Rustlings (February 1, 2021)
My grandmother told me more than once (and your grandmother might have told you too), it is impolite to discuss religion, politics and money in public. In her mind, these subjects tended to divide people rather than bring people together. Of course, I would eventually choose a profession where these three subjects cannot be avoided. […]
Rustlings (January 25, 2021)
Every once in a while, a sermon gets me in trouble. I have typically preached in ‘free pulpits.’ These pulpits are surrounded by congregants who know two things: 1) the minister is free to preach what they sense the Holy Spirit is leading them to preach, and 2) the congregant is free to believe it […]
The Branch—January 25, 2021
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Rustlings (January 19, 2021)
One of the great temptations for all ministers (all people of faith, in fact) is the inappropriate redaction of our holy texts. More simply said, we quote scripture out of context. This selective redaction allows us to prop up our arguments, validate our actions, find hope for our struggles, and construct an image of God […]
The Branch—January 19, 2021
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Rustlings (January 11, 2021)
It is the most common sermonic rookie mistake among new preachers—cramming multiple sermons into one sermon. These lengthy diatribes usually contain three or four ideas which could each be independently shaped into a sermon. In the early days of preaching, however, we are exuberant over the wealth of discovered gems and feel the youthful pressure […]