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It’s July 1, the start of a new conference year, and for many, the beginning of a new ministry. Here is my prayer as we begin this journey in the midst of a pandemic. O God, thank you for being with each & every one of us at all times! I am especially struck by the … Read more
It’s been a couple of years since I wrote about the stroke I had on September 19, 2017, so I thought it was time to share an update on how my recovery is going. At the time of my post (Jan. 2018), we had recently learned I had some “residual AVM” (arteriovenous malformation, or tangled … Read more
I actually read this book in 2016. It was one of the books I chose to read during my short-term sabbatical. My One Word for 2016 was Energize. I chose the word because I wanted to improve my own physical and spiritual energy levels, and I also wanted to energize others such as the church. … Read more
Writing has long been part of my life. I’ve kept a journal for 30 years (see 5 Benefits of Journaling). And, now I’ve written on the blog half that time, compiling more than 1,200 posts (including some by Joleen). I’ve blogged long enough to know that we go through seasons. I’ve written similar posts in … Read more
Exercise may not be the most important thing. In fact, I love what the Apostle Paul says … While physical training has some value, training in holy living is useful for everything. It has promise for this life now and the life to come. — 1 Timothy 4.8 (CEB) Physical training is good, but it’s … Read more
As followers of Jesus we are disciples—students, learners, apprentices. That’s who we are. As disciples, God’s Word is essential for us. The Bible has long played a vital role in my life. But since the stroke, it seems to be even more important. Here are some verses that have impacted me lately … God is … Read more
Delegates from around the world for the United Methodist Church’s General Conference will meet in a special session to address the church’s position related to human sexuality, particularly disagreements about same-sex marriage and ordination of LGBTQ clergy. This is my prayer as delegates convene February 23-26, 2019. O God, thank you for all you are … Read more
Last summer (2017), I participated in a community prayer for Brody, a 6 year-old from Centre Grove. I decided to draft a prayer completely from the Psalms. I trust this prayer be will helpful for all who experience trials! Psalm 27.7-97 Lord, listen to my voice when I cry out—have mercy on me and answer … Read more
On summer vacation, I read Wild Goose Chase by Mark Batterson. Batterson is one of my favorite writers and I love this book! The title for the book comes from the name Celtic Christians have for the Holy Spirit, the Wild Goose. It denotes adventure. Batterson makes clear, “nothing is more unnerving or disorienting than … Read more
I suffered a stroke on September 19 around 10:00 p.m. It happened very quickly. I was pretty calm, but I didn’t know what was going to happen. At the time, I was frustrated I wasn’t able to tell my family, including my kids who had gotten out of bed, that I loved them, possibly for … Read more