Renewal
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Finding Ways to Keep a Holy Lent
It is hard to believe that we are approaching the middle of March. Last week, it felt like we celebrated Christmas. Nevertheless, here we are. This past week was the first Sunday of Lent. I am playing catch up… Continue reading
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Doing Last Minute Errands to Finish
My wife, Cazandra, and I just returned from last-minute shopping before the big day. She prepares a tray of this, a tray of that, and a mess of something. Our kitchen is the best place to be during the… Continue reading
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Doing Spiritual Work Brings Spiritual Joy
As I sweep my spiritual floor clean, I notice something that gets my attention. Laying in a corner of my soul is a list of those who have hurt me. I want to go over and sweep with everything… Continue reading
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How Long Must We Wait?
During this season of Advent, I cannot help but wonder how long God expects us to wait for His presence. The people of Israel lived in a ridiculously lengthy period of Advent, as they waited for hundreds of years… Continue reading
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Are We Saved by Grace or Works?
For many years, the idea of cleaning the house to prepare for the arrival of the Christ child has confused me. In short, must we “do” certain things before Jesus enters our hearts? The more profound question is, “Must… Continue reading
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John’s Call to a Changed Life
“Change your hearts and Lives! Here comes the kingdom of heaven!” (Matt. 3:2 CEB). We see that John’s version of baptism (small “b” because it is not a sacrament) appears different than what Christianity came to know. John called… Continue reading
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Making a Fresh Start
The last post I shared was in early summer. After 10+ years of writing blogs, I needed a break from the mundane. At first, I felt guilty about stopping, but gradually I realized that respites offer a time of… Continue reading
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Where Do We Go from Here?
I cannot help but think of the Jewish refugees reentering the land flowing with milk and honey after the exile. Jerusalem lay in ruins, and the first temple no longer existed. The word trauma seems to be an appropriate… Continue reading
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Not Enough Paper to Go Around
“But there are also many other things Jesus did; and if they were all to be recorded, I don’t think the whole world could contain the books that would have to be written!” (John 21:25 CJSB). As the Gospel of John… Continue reading
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Our Songs of Ascent
Psalms 120-134 are known as the Psalms of Ascent. The title possibly refers to physically climbing the outer stairs of the temple to reach the center square. Songs reflected melodies that started low and gradually got higher with each idea… Continue reading
From a Pastor's Point of View 