Blog

Before the “sinner’s prayer,” before Christian atonement theology, before crosses became the symbol of Christianity, and before Good Friday was ever part of the Christian calender, the Friday before Easter was an incredibly sad and tragic day for early followers of Jesus. Because on that day, Jesus had died.   BEFORE GOOD FRIDAY In theRead more

Ever since the first century, when the early Christian movement began, there has been a preoccupation among Christians about who is on the “inside” and who is on the “outside” of the faith. It has often shown up in conversations discussing who are believers and unbelievers, righteous and unrighteous, saved and unsaved, Christians and non-Christians.Read more

In the last blog, we looked at The Big Lie about widespread voter fraud that President Trump continued to push in the months leading up to the election and in the following weeks after it. We considered how this lie was successful enough to persuade 72% of Republican voters even after the election. We alsoRead more

November 3rd Presidential Election It was one of the most controversial elections in American history. It was also one of the most anticipated days of 2020. By casting their vote, Americans across the country hoped to draw a line in the sand over what kind of America they wanted to move forward and hand toRead more

In light of the violent riot at the US Capital on January 6, 2021 and those who lost their lives, I offer this prayer.   Pray with me: God of creation, Our nation is in crisis. We are more polarized than ever. Neighbor is suspicious of neighbor. Hatred, aggression and violence have escalated. Even thoseRead more

With an ongoing global pandemic and a deeply polarizing political climate, things can feel a bit overwhelming at times. The US political climate is particularly toxic right now. I know this first-hand. Over the last two years, I have become increasingly outspoken against President Trump and those who enable him, especially on social media but also inRead more

Jesus’ critics You would think that someone like Jesus–whose life and work has literally impacted hundreds of billions of people throughout world history–would have been welcomed with open arms during his own day from every sector and corner of life. The reality is, while a great many did embrace him, there were plenty who didRead more

It’s been said that all people understand and interpret the world and the life they lead through the lens of a story. Our stories give meaning to who we are and where we come from. They include things like our interests and personality, our career choice, where we live and work and make our community,Read more

On the night of Jesus’s birth, there was no room in the… Sometimes I wonder if I’ve heard this story so many times that I’m missing the beauty of it this time of year. Christian churches over the last hundred years have created serene sets with nicely behaved animals and card companies put Hallmarkesque imagesRead more

Our national filter It should not be a surprise that where we were born and raised has had a profound influence on our lives (culturally, politically, economically, socially, psychologically and religiously). Had we been born and raised in another family, in another place or even another country, we might have a very different understanding aboutRead more