heavenly presence
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Refilling the Soul: Lessons from a Restful Vacation
Today is the last day of my vacation. I will return to my pastoral duties tomorrow, grateful for a wonderful and restful retreat. As I processed the week I spent in Texas, I feel overwhelmed with love and appreciation… Continue reading
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Navigating Trauma and Gratitude: Insights from a Winter Retreat
This weekend, I visited with a good friend on Saturday morning and then traveled to Austin. A cold front blew through on Saturday evening, and when I woke up, the seminary grounds were covered in snow and ice. The… Continue reading
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The Road to Rest: Insights from Audiobooks and Faith
Today marks the start of a week spent visiting family, celebrating my birthday, joining a retreat in Austin, and taking time to sit quietly and connect with God. Since I spent much of the day traveling by car, I started… 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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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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Why Must We Observe Advent Every Year?
As I go about my business, preparing for the Christ child’s coming into the world, I ask myself a question that seems to pop into my mind every year. Why do I observe Advent every year? I know… 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
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Experiencing God’s Presence in Unsuspecting Moments
Today, I had an encounter with the Divine in the most unlikely of ways. Our church hosts many community parties and programs, and with them come tons of food left for us to eat. Because of the season,… Continue reading
From a Pastor's Point of View 