The Advent wreath is a circle with no beginning and no end. It is a symbol of endless love and faithfulness. Out of darkness light shines, pointing us in hope to the One who came to overcome the darkness of this world and to be our light in the world to come. We celebrate his […]
Jesus is coming, shout for joy! Joy is a word we see and hear everywhere at Christmas. Joy to the world is the message of the season. Joy is the theme of this day. Two weeks ago, we lit the Prophecy candle and remembered those who first spoke the promise of hope of the coming […]
Waiting is hard in a fast-paced society. We want the stoplight to change quickly, the grocery line to move fast, and Christmas morning to arrive soon. We forget that before good things happen, preparations must be made. Last week we lit the Prophecy candle and remembered those who first spoke with hope the promise of […]
Lighting a candle is a simple yet profound act. It is a testimony to the power of light over darkness. Even the light of one candle can reveal our faces as we stand near the candle. As we light the candle, we begin our journey to Christmas, a day of joy and celebration. The first […]
Upon entering the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, one is confronted by a stained-glass window whose central panel bears the inscription “To cure sometimes, to relieve often, to comfort always.” In light of the circumstances we now face it is foremost on my mind how to serve those that are in need. Some, especially […]
Romans 13:1 “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” When we have an authority over us that is righteous, we are made glad. Wickedness grieves the hearts of men. Our world is filled […]
Hebrews 13:16 “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” What does a Christian life look like? I have heard that question in my pastoral life numerous times and have found answering it both difficult and even embarrassing. Difficult because it is a […]