RCL – What is a good shepherd?

Proper 11, Year B It isn’t Good Shepherd Sunday, and yet it sort of feels that way upon reflection of the readings appointed for Sunday, July 18. All of our readings resound with flock language and shepherd imagery, hopefully causing us to pause and wonder what makes a healthy flock and effective shepherds? They also… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Good Shepherd Edition

My home congregation is Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. For as long as I can remember, their logo has included a silhouette of Jesus as shepherd, holding a long staff. They have a beautiful metal (iron?) sculpture of a shepherd carrying a sheep. Their columbarium, which I have yet to see in person,… Read More

11th Hour Preacher Party: Gates and Sheep edition

Preaching colleagues, it’s that time of the week again! How is your sermon coming along? Between planning liturgy, preparing for children’s sermons, and writing something for the main preaching event, this is often the busiest time of the week! At least, it is for those who tend to procrastinate, or who had unexpected events eat… Read More

Friday Prayer: All the Days of My Life

When a church member “threatens” to leave when she doesn’t get her way… Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. When I choke back tears at the funeral of a beloved elder… Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. When the sounds of children wrestling… Read More