family
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From Honeymoon to Growth: Navigating Ministry Relationships
In our society, when someone hears the phrase “The honeymoon is over,” we automatically think something bad happened, and what was once a pleasant environment becomes hostile and uninviting. To help pastors and leaders see this transition positively, it’s… Continue reading
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Navigating Ministry: Humor and Humility in Church Leadership
Not counting the many years that I served churches as a music director, I started my 18th year as a pastor in the United Methodist Church. One of the joys of ministry outside of the local church is to… Continue reading
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The Grace to Listen
My son called me on Father’s Day just to say hello. Julian, my oldest son, is traveling on a national tour of Saw, a musical parody of the slasher film by the same name. He had already forbidden his… Continue reading
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Building God’s Kingdom: The Importance of Community
“You yourselves are being built like living stones into a spiritual temple. You are being made into a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5 CEB). This morning,… Continue reading
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Preparing for the Christ Child: A Night of Celebration
Today is our final day of preparation. We know that Jesus comes in the night, a time symbolizing anticipation and divine mystery, and we sing and celebrate the One for whom we took our time to prepare. We… Continue reading
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Journey of Grace: Cleaning Away Regrets This Christmas
As we draw closer to Christmas, the time for cleaning is about done. We know the guest will arrive shortly. In looking back over this year’s season of Advent, I discovered some unexpected surprises. Some areas exposed regret… Continue reading
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Feasting with Friends: Embracing Joy and Faith
Last Saturday, Cazandra and I hosted an open house party for our church family. Gathering outside the church grounds invites a sense of relaxation and a chance to get to know people more deeply. Everyone loved the decorations… Continue reading
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A Spirit of Joy Pervades the Air
As the congregation of my church stood singing carols, I want to express my gratitude for the customs that are part of my United Methodist heritage. Recognizing these traditions helps me feel connected and thankful for the community’s shared faith… Continue reading
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Find Joy in the Busyness of the Season of Advent
The last few weeks leading up to Christmas often become a race to the finish line. We must arrange for out-of-town friends and family to purchase last-minute gifts and to practice one more time for the church Christmas concert.… Continue reading
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Living With a Spirit of Gratitude
“Mary said, ‘With all my heart I glorify the Lord! In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my saviour’” (Lk. 1:46-47 CEB). Mary’s response to God’s calling can inspire admiration and trust. Her encounter… Continue reading
From a Pastor's Point of View 