The following is a prayer I wrote several years ago which we have used at our family Thanksgiving meals. I share it with the hope that some readers may find it meaningful during this Thanksgiving season. Gracious God, we come to this table to give you thanks—thanks for the gift… Continue reading
Imagine what it would be like if a congregation prayed with everyone’s head raised and eyes open seeing, not just looking but actually seeing, each other through the lens of wondrous love. Continue reading
Francis of Assisi (1182-1226) has captured the hearts and minds of millions of people over the centuries. He certainly is one of my favorite saints. Through the insights of such brilliant Franciscan theologians as Richard Rohr, Francis’ life, teachings, and example have impacted countless persons of all faiths. As a… Continue reading
Prayer may not save us. But prayer may make us worthy of being saved. (Abraham Joshua Heschel, Moral Grandeur and Spiritual Audacity) In my childhood, I experienced prayer as a spiritual discipline I was forced to practice. Each night my mother would gather my father, my younger brother, and me… Continue reading
(Based on the exegesis of Walter Brueggemann in Tenacious Solidarity: Biblical Provocations on Race, Religion, Climate, and the Economy, pp. 369-373) Read Psalm 109 For a few moments I want you to think back on your life to those times when you have been wronged, mistreated, betrayed, abused, used, hurt,… Continue reading
Are there times when you do not know how or what to pray? Times when the fear and uncertainty of your life knock the breath out of you so that words simply cannot come? Times when the complexity of existence leaves your head spinning and your stomach churning and you… Continue reading
The story is told of three men debating the proper position and attitude one should display during prayer. One man said, “You should be on your knees with your head bowed in reverence and subjugation to the Almighty and Holy God.” The second man disagreed and said, “You’re forgetting… Continue reading
When I was a child, my notion of church never went beyond the gathered community that worshiped in the fortress like structure on Chesterfield St. in Aiken, S.C. In fact, my concept of church was inextricably tied to that dark and mysterious building. I belonged to that church. My friend Ernie… Continue reading
In recent years, politicians have been criticized for offering their “thoughts and prayers” to the victims of gun violence. I would assume these politicians hope to mollify their constituents with these lame offerings. By such manipulative and hypocritical strategies, they hope they can get by without having to actually do… Continue reading
Lent is a time for reflection, soul-searching, confession, repentance, and preparation for the coming grace of God. I’ve always has a suspicion that we Protestants are not quite sure what to do with Lent. The pageantry and triumph of Palm Sunday and Easter are more our style. The church, however,… Continue reading
