    When I was preaching every Sunday, I often struggled with what to say on Mother’s Day. Of course, I would say “Happy Mother’s Day” during the announcements, and then, in the prayers I would give thanks to God for our mothers. But beyond that, I wasn’t sure what else I should do. Many people […]
3240) Mother’s Day, Guilt, and Mephibosheth Read More »
One of the dictionary definitions of ragamuffin is a ragged, often disreputable person. Brennan Manning often used that word to describe himself. His life was a mess. After serving as a marine in Korea, he became a monk– and then he quit that life. He became a priest– and then he left the priesthood. He
3196) For All Ragamuffins Read More »
Desmond Tutu on Forgiveness:    To forgive is not just to be altruistic. It is the best form of self-interest. It is also a process that does not exclude hatred and anger. These emotions are all part of being human. You should never hate yourself for hating others who do terrible things: the depth
3186) Extreme Forgiveness (2/2) Read More »
Pictured above: Desmond Tutu (1931-2021) and Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) ———————————–    The nation of South Africa is 90% black and 10% white. Until 1993, the white minority ruled, establishing a strict, racist society. Blacks were second class citizens, denied basic human rights, and kept in poverty. Any dissent was brutally crushed. Kidnapping, torture, and
3185) Extreme Forgiveness (1/2) Read More »
Above image: A Raisin in the Sun, by Lorraine Hansberry (1930-1965), from the 1961 movie ————————-    The 1959 Broadway play “A Raisin in the Sun” tells the story of a black family in Harlem. They never had much money and saw little chance of escaping their poverty. Then the father died and the
3146) “There is Always Something Left to Love” Read More »
Psalm 32:1-5: Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.  Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as
3140) Prayers of Confession Read More »
Pictured above: Philip and Janet Yancey —————————————    My favorite living author is Philip Yancey. He has written dozens of books and I have read every one at least once. His first book was published when I was in seminary, I read each of his new books throughout my ministry, and since I have
3119) Sin, Shame, Repentance, Forgiveness Read More »
By Lee Strobel ———————————— “This is embarrassing,” my friend said to me over the phone. “That’s okay,” I assured him. “Go ahead. You can tell me.” He sighed. “Well, we found out our little girl shoplifted a book from the church bookstore. We were really surprised because she’s a good kid. Anyway, I was wondering whether
3115) A Lesson in Grace Read More »
   (…continued)  God has three very important things to say about rules.  First of all, he gives the rules for our own benefit and the benefit of others who might be hurt by our bad behavior; and God demands that we obey him.  Secondly, when we break the rules, that is to say when
3092) III. Rules, Excuses, FORGIVENESS (3/3) Read More »
   As a young woman in Brighton, England, Charlotte Elliot (1789-1871) was known as “carefree Charlotte.” She was a popular portrait artist and a writer of humorous poetry. When in her early thirties, Charlotte suffered a serious illness that left her as a bedridden invalid for the rest of her life. She was often
3058) Come As You Are Read More »
