From a Pastor's Point of View

praise be to god

  • What Does it Mean to Ransom Someone?

         In the famous Christmas Carol, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel pleads to “ransom captive Israel.” When I think of ransoming someone, there must be money involved. While the Merriam-Webster Dictionary does include the idea of a monetary payment in… Continue reading

  • Rejoice, My Friends!

         For some, the season of Advent brings sorrow. Tragic events from the past seem to overwhelm us, much less leave us feeling anxious and ill at ease. The psalmist spoke of pain when asked to sing the music of… Continue reading

    Rejoice, My Friends!

  • 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

    Doing Spiritual Work Brings Spiritual Joy

  • 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

  • Giving Thanks for My Current House of Worship

         There are moments in ministry, especially itinerant service when moving occurs. Sometimes the possibilities of moving forward appear to be the next right steps. This experience is not the case for me at this moment. This week I had… Continue reading

  • A Time to Live in a Spirit of Thanks

         I must say that my heart is full this week of Thankgsliving. My oldest son arrived in town last night, and the first thing we did was sing together. In my world, there is nothing quite like singing with… Continue reading

  • Moving from Point A to Point B

         Each year, as Annual Conference begins, I remembered my ordination service several years ago. I remember how a boy raised in exceedingly challenging circumstances found his way to a place unimaginable among his family. I represent the struggles to… Continue reading

  • 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

  • Really Listen for the Truth

    As a pastor, I am privileged to a wealth of information.  There are times that I just shake my head and keep moving forward.  No matter what I hear, I try to listen for the truth that is sometimes buried… Continue reading

  • A Summer Treat

    This picture was taken at my sons’ favorite restaurant.  It is called Burrito Express.  Both boys enjoy the wonderful tortillas that are made on the spot.  This restaurant is as close to Tex-Mex that we can get living in Rio… Continue reading