Are you observing Epiphany? Or the Second Sunday of Christmas? Or something else, moving into the new year? Revised Common Lectionary (including both Epiphany and Christmas 2) and Narrative Lectionary posts are available for inspiration. (Have you found the Wandering Wisemen on facebook yet?) Here is the place to offer and ask for help, on… Read More
Friday Prayer: Epiphanies in Due Time
Dear God- All time is contained in you. In my own understanding of time, I am baking a cake for a birthday party, preparing for a funeral, and grieving the daily news. In time beyond my understanding, magi from somewhere unknown are traveling to find a baby whose birth they perceived by observing a celestial… Read More
Monday Prayer: on the verge
Tender heart, we pause in these days of in between; of releasing the world that forged the path on which we place our feet, and leaning into the hopes and blank canvases of tomorrow. Equip us with patience as we view the landscape and plot our course. Empower us with wisdom as we respond to… Read More
Friday Festival: The Other Side of Christmas
Like every other pastor, I struggle with the Christmas Eve sermon. Having spent the year with church members standing by a graveside, or sitting in a claustrophobic hospital consult room, or handing out tissues when there are no words, I wonder what to say when I look into their eyes on Christmas Eve. The good… Read More
Ask the Matriarch: An Honest Job Reference
This week’s question is about a request pastors regularly receive. Is this an easy way to support our folks, or are there pitfalls? Dear Matriarchs: I am writing a pastoral reference for someone in my congregation whom I know to have issues with alcohol abuse. She has had a DUI within the past year. She… Read More
Monday Prayer
We hear the sound of hooves finding purchase along the rocky path, an echo of our progress on the journey toward light. Carrying the expectant one, mindful of each jostling step, the way is steadied as the family presses on. Under the canopy of stars and anticipation, the darkness begins to yield to the grasp… Read More
Thursday Prayer: for a moment’s rest
For the comfortable chair, and a few moments to sit, to breathe; For our feet on the ground and the unconditional support the earth offer us; For gravity steadily holding us in place even as our busy minds swirl; Gracious God we thank you and ask for your restful, steadying presence with us in all… Read More
Monday Prayer
The fingers of approaching light alert us to the blessing that comes, tucked into the folds of mercy and longing and yearning to extend its reach to the tenderness of souls. We find you there in the rush of our days, the longing of our tears, the hiccups of our joys. Steal a kiss for… Read More
11th Hour Preacher Party: Advent 3
According to my calculations, Advent is more than halfway over. How are we feeling? I’m guessing that you might feel a bit like I do, so please, take a deep breath. Repeat. And one more time. Ok. Do that several times today. It will help. What’s happening for you this Third Sunday of Advent? Choir… Read More
Ask the Matriarch: When is friendly too friendly?
This week’s question is about a lot of things — inclusive church and appropriate touching are two of those. What are the real issues here, and what’s a pastor to do? Dear Matriarchs, My question is about creating a culture of respectful touching — and not touching — in a congregation that is very friendly,… Read More
