From a Pastor's Point of View

forgiveness

  • The Best Necklace in the Whole World

    I was eleven years old, and my mission in life was to by my mother the best birthday gift possible.  Her birthday was coming up, and I was desperate.  My grandparents took me to a shopping mall in Houston, and I was… Continue reading

  • A Moment of Truth

    When I stand at the altar to prepare for Communion, there is an innate sense of responsibility that flows through me. I think long and hard about every word that comes out my mouth, as I consecrate the elements, inviting… Continue reading

  • Freeing Yourself from Shame

    Shame is more than a five-letter word.  It can hold you hostage and keep you wholly locked within a prison of your making.  For me, I carry shame for things that were not even my fault.  The wounds pierce my… 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

  • 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

  • It’s Easy to Get Stuck

    I am grateful for my time in Austin.  While attending Austin Presbyterian Seminary, I was able to walk the campus of the University of Texas.  Ah yes, that beautiful campus with the tower.  As I walked down the stairs of… Continue reading

  • A New Start: A New Beginning

    Here we are in a new year.  Many of us set new goals, with new expectations in both our personal and professional lives.  Yes, we are given a chance to start over.  We are encouraged to change our way of… Continue reading

  • Preserve Our Memories Well

    Recently I was visiting with a wonderful man who served in the military during World War II.  He told me some amazing stories of love, sadness and deliverance.  I finished my conversation with him expressing a feeling of gratitude for… Continue reading

  • Lessons From My Mother

    I cannot remember a time when I did not want to be a musician.  I have always enjoyed the art of making music.  As a kid, my sister and I would put on variety shows and take turns singing.  (Yes,… Continue reading