While reading the welcome bio for the new Executive Director to the East Shore YMCA, as a member of that branch, I felt excited. But as pastor to this local community, I felt saddened. Reading that he’s coming from Northern Dauphin means he’s leaving the...
I find the way John describes Jesus being revealed quite fascinating. There’s a real sense of wonder and delight as John says, “I myself did not know who the Messiah was. I went along doing my job and minding my own business: baptizing folks in...
In short, the book of Acts, chapter 10, verses 38-43 tells Christians all they need to know. To start with, the verses explain why Baptism is considered one of only two sacraments recognized by the church. By definition, a sacrament is something ordained or instituted...
Christmas lectionary readings speak to both the birth and death of hope. In brand new people, relationships and life endeavors, hope is born… before fear of things not working out are introduced through additional players and other forces coming to bear. In Joseph and Mary there’s...
Isaiah 62:8 says, “The Lord has sworn by his right hand and by his mighty arm.” Remember the ways that we, as kids, used to swear oaths? I remember saying or hearing this more than once, do you? “Cross my heart and hope to die,...
Everything is under control. Ahaz was king of Judah 700 years before Christ was born. As a man, he wearied God by not asking for a sign though encouraged by the Lord himself to do so. Nonetheless, he wasn’t abandoned; God delivered a message to him...
Last week, John was confident that the kingdom of heaven had come near. He pointed directly toward Jesus as “the one”. This week, there’s a John the Baptist meme going around with him saying, “Wait… What?” as if confusion had gotten the better of his...
Here we go again, it’s that time of the liturgical year. A time of new beginnings with John the Baptist telling us exactly how to prepare for when the kingdom of heaven comes near as it did in his lifetime. During Advent each year, we...
I’m reading another book called Discovering Your True Self: A Guide for the Journey, about transformation toward mature spirituality. I wonder if you’re thinking, “Why does our pastor introduce psychology into nearly every sermon and most of her newsletter articles, lol? Because psychology examines how people...
On All Saints Sunday, a reading from Ephesians notes: Blessed are those who set their hope on Christ because he will accomplish all things according to God’s will and purpose. They have an inheritance and live offering praise of his glory. Blessed are those who hear...