From a Pastor's Point of View

joekmac

  • The Power of a Candle

    I will not deny that I am a person who has a reputation for being outgoing and very boisterous.  I draw strength from being in the presence of others.  If you have ever talked to me for two minutes, it… Continue reading

  • Truth in the Nuance

    I am a pastor in the United Methodist tradition.  It is no secret that our church is going through a very rough time.  The issue of sexuality, and how we as a church express our faith is a topic that… Continue reading

  • Beaten and Broken (Sometimes)

    There are times that I feel a little beaten up.  My struggles may come in the form of unkind words, or actions meant to harm me.  There are moments that I want to rise up and defend myself.  I want… Continue reading

  • One Day You Will Know

    This is written to my amazing son, who is celebrating his 20th birthday today. One day, you will know that every night I tell you that I love you, that I mean it with my whole heart.  There are no… Continue reading

  • Blessed

    Over the past month, I have done a ton of traveling.  I am learning why I would never be a good salesperson.  I would get way too homesick.  Each of my journeys brought new and exciting challenges to my life. … Continue reading

  • First Things First

    Last night, I was frantically trying to get last minute things done before I begin an almost three-week travel schedule.  This had to be done, that had to be paid, deadlines for articles for the church had to be finished. … Continue reading

  • Divide Us, Smide Us!

    I am at my first General Conference of the United Methodist Church. I can only say that within 10 minutes of the first general assembly, I was frustrated and very disappointed. I left the room wondering, “What in the world… Continue reading

  • When the World Spins Way Too Fast!

    Last week I hit the ground running.  My week consisted of running from meeting to meeting, dealing with issues both in the church and beyond, and trying to find some time to write a sermon.  I didn’t even mention fighting… Continue reading

  • Blessings in a Crazy Week

    Last week was an adventure in survival.  I had a paper due for a class I had taken, my wife had back surgery, I flew out of town and back for a meeting, and preached on Sunday morning.  By Sunday… Continue reading

  • An Unexpected Mark of Greatness!

    On Monday of this week, I had the honor of presiding at the memorial service of one of my great aunts.  It was amazing to stand and look out at the members of the congregation that were made up of cousins that… Continue reading