First Words
Conscience means "knowing together"
In worship, our moral compass is recalibrated—with the help of others.
On being white
I used to think racism could be surgically removed. But it's not that easy.
What makes for an undivided life?
True character is only formed over long periods of time.
The difference between wishing and hoping
Wishes are about what we want. Hope is about what God wants.
Us, them, and the pronouns we use
Small words can say a lot about how we see our place in the world.
Does God cause our suffering?
God works in mysterious ways, not sadistic ones.
An executive order churches didn't need
Trump says pastors are bullied and silenced. That comes as a surprise to me.
Another “Ask the Pastor” session with the confirmation class
Why are there only 12 disciples? Will we be with our families in heaven? Does God think pineapple should go on pizza?
Living the truth, not just believing it
Well-aligned spokes make a bicycle wheel true. Truthful living gives a person credibility.
I need poetry more than ever
These are not poetic times. We live and breathe prose.
Prayer without answers
The main purpose of prayer is to enjoy God.
When Ruby Bridges prayed for her enemies
In the face of mob violence, a six-year-old responded with love.
A refugee’s gift
In offering another refugee his citizenship, Chuong Nguyen is not submitting a transactional sort of sacrifice. He is giving a gift of selfless love.
A roominess within the soul
In the Bible, freedom is always more than a simple choice or the absence of coercion.
Good habits shape good ministers
Even the most mechanical routines can transform our inner lives.
Our microbes are Legion
My friend Angie’s life is crippled by compulsive acts of decontamination.
All of us are beautiful
Our identities—gender and otherwise—are shaped by community and God.
What drives hate?
Hate isn’t new, but it does appear to be thriving.
Swaddled in an orange jumpsuit
She gave birth to a son in the back of a squad car.
Consumed by the news
Does being a good citizen require keeping up with current events?