Romans 13:1-7: For Whom Does the Sword Swing?

Some days or years before our first parents bit into the forbidden tree’s fruit, God founded both Church and family.  In a love unknown to us and a closeness beyond […]

To Isolate or Not, Such is Our Reality

This is our pastor’s article for the September edition of our congregational newsletter. The Old Testament doesn’t view life and death as mere biological facts.  Read Scripture, and you will […]

Matthew 16:21-28: Your Cross and His Cross

At last, somebody understands Jesus!  Earlier, He tossed this query toward His disciples, “Who do people suppose the Son of Man is?”  Above the others, Peter rose, “You are the […]

Romans 12:1-2: A Living Sacrifice

After explaining how God saves, Paul now waxes lyrical.  With the depths of God as his topic, he embarks on an exclamation of praise.  First, he seizes a word connected […]

Jesus in the Storm

The day began as Jesus withdrew to a deserted place to be alone.  Later, in the afternoon sun, He ascends atop a mountain to pray.  Again, Jesus seeks solitude, far […]

Isaiah 55:1-5: Delight in the Richest of Fare

A water vendor, a part of ordinary commerce in ages past.  Most did not live next to a stream, and sometimes access to a well became problematic.  So, in typical […]

Romans 8:28-39: Bad into Good

The verses before today’s Epistle reading speak of a collaboration between God and His Spirit.  The Spirit intercedes for us, something we should find comforting.  Now, since God understands the […]

Isaiah 55:10-13: Like Rain and Snow

To live in the ancient Promised Land required faith.  Oh, its description as a place of milk and sweet honey rang true, for its country fed livestock, sheltered bees, and […]

God May Not Be Like We Think

Frustrated, Jeremiah cries to heaven, “You enticed and deceived me, prevailing over me.”  Earlier, God told him this, “I am making you into an iron pillar.”  To be God’s prophet […]

Getting Back to Normality Despite COVID, or at Least, Trying

A couple of weeks ago, a member of our congregation approached me.  In short, she shared with me her assessment of our COVID-19 prevention practices.  Well, I quipped back, “Yeah, […]