Like a bad dream
Thus far, I've had two careers: one as a surgical nurse; one as a pastor. Both have been tremendously rewarding. Both have also given me…
Transcendent beauty
There's a powerful moment in J.R.R. Tolkien's novel, The Return of the King, when Sam is encouraged by the light of a star. He's engaged…
Fear of death
C.S. Lewis, in his address “Learning in War-Time” outlines several rivals to our work–things that make it hard to be productive, especially when there is…
Half full?
Do you tend toward optimism or pessimism? J.I. Packer explains the difference between blind optimism and genuine Christian hope: Optimism hopes for the best without…
Wedding
Today I have the profound privilege of joining a bride and groom in Holy Matrimony. When I took this pastoral role in this college town--it…
Anticlimax
anticlimax noun a disappointing end to an exciting or impressive series of events Saturday nights are special at our house. We upgrade the meal, pull out the table cloth and…
Yes and No
There are Yes People--who quickly say yes knowing that they might not be able to fulfill the request. The upside is that the Yes Person…
Goodbyes
My Mother-in-law doesn't like long goodbyes. She wants them short and sweet--no sense in prolonging the pain. She's not too abrupt, mind you, but she…
Education
"While we are planning the education of the future we can be rid of the illusion that we shall ever replace destiny. Make the plans…
Belligerent bells
One of my favorite Christmas songs is "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." It's based on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem, "Christmas Bells." I love…