1 Jesus returned from the Jordan River full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. (Luke 4.1) Lent is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on one’s spiritual and faith journey. There are many themes you could focus on. This particular one focuses on the word “journey.” Below are ideas for… [Read more…]
February 20, 2012
This picture was taken last year when we celebrated the 20th anniversary of my Head of Staff. The kids laid hands on him as I led them in a prayer. I love this photo because of what it represents. At my church, we take the baptismal vows very seriously, especially our commitment to nurture, teach,… [Read more…]
February 13, 2012
9 The Samaritan woman asked, “Why do you, a Jewish man, ask for something to drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” (Jews and Samaritans didn’t associate with each other.) 10 Jesus responded, “If you recognized God’s gift and who is saying to you, ‘Give me some water to drink,’ you would be asking him and he would give you… [Read more…]
February 12, 2012
19 We love because God first loved us. . . . 21 This commandment we have from him: Those who claim to love God ought to love their brother and sister also. (1 John 4.19, 21) This morning, my daughter and I sported the side ponytail. Lately, she has been wanting to copy me in putting on lipstick,… [Read more…]
February 8, 2012
This Sunday, I wasn’t actually at my church. I was away at a conference that was on a cruise ship. While my husband had his own Sunday adventure with the kids, having to take them to not just one but two churches that he serves at, I was keynoting a conference of 50 clergywomen on… [Read more…]
January 31, 2012
3 I thank my God every time I mention you in my prayers. 4 I’m thankful for all of you every time I pray, and it’s always a prayer full of joy.5 I’m glad because of the way you have been my partners in the ministry of the gospel from the time you first believed it until now. 6 I’m sure… [Read more…]
January 30, 2012
Knowledge makes people arrogant, but love builds people up. (1 Corinthians 8.1) It’s been a while since I’ve preached. So, when I saw the options from the lectionary texts, I was scratching my head on deciding whether to preach on prophets, demons, or idols. I chose idols. Not because it was any easier than the three,… [Read more…]
January 23, 2012
For Christmas, my son got Sea Monkeys in his stocking. Basically, you just add water to the packet and after 24 hours, little sea monkeys should begin to grow. Water has that effect on things. Just add water and life will happen. That’s what my Sunday was like. After months of no rain, we have… [Read more…]
January 16, 2012
Stewardship and commitment to the church are wonderful opportunities for people to explore on their own personal commitment. Below are ideas of interactive prayer stations that focus on these themes. (For more specific instructions on layout, purpose, design, and more ideas, you can view previous posts tagged under “Interactive Prayer Stations.”) To view pictures of… [Read more…]
January 15, 2012
Today was one of those days in which I should have just crawled back into bed. Actually, the whole week was like that. Already my energy was low from having to plan and lead a 6-hour presbytery retreat for 50 council members and committee chairs a couple of days ago. With me being presbytery moderator… [Read more…]
February 22, 2012
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