Anabaptist and Quaker essays, sermons, and other writings
I love watching cooking competitions. I started watching them with my grandmother Diana and have continued the tradition with my daughter Diana Grace. One of the genre’s most iconic shows is Hell’s Kitchen. On the show, celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey mentors teams of chefs through a series of challenges until […]
In Acts 2, Peter preaches about Jesus and the Holy Spirit, interpreting the words of Joel and David as prophetic witnesses to what they were experiencing. In his sermon, Peter goes on to explain that repentance – true turning – is at the root of forgiveness in Christ. The passage […]
“Peace is at the heart of the gospel. As followers of Jesus in a divided and violent world, we are committed to finding non-violent alternatives and to learning how to make peace between individuals, within and among churches, in society, and between nations.” “Belief that the gospel includes a commitment […]
It is no exaggeration to say that I would not be a Christian today if it was not for Romans 7:15 and 19, in which none other than the Apostle Paul – chosen to be God’s instrument’ chosen to bring the name of Jesus before Gentiles and kings and before the people […]
Metaphors and figures of speech are not just the tools of poets, but the fabric of our everyday life. In the previous sentence alone I employed two different metaphors to talk about metaphors (i.e. tools and fabric). We use linguistic images all the time, often without realizing it, and we […]
The definitions of the word encourage are explained in three ways which mean to give support, confidence, or hope to (someone), or persuade (someone) to do or continue to do something by giving support and advice or stimulate the development of (an activity, state, or belief). Developing the attitude of […]
As I sat and began to think about what to write for this second article with the goal of some kind of practical equipping, I thought back on some of the most important lessons that I’d learned – some of the most memorable and influential aspects of my spiritual life. […]
What church practice is God leading you to renew and/or revitalize in 2022? The beginning of a new year is a great time to consider how to change, renew or revitalize a ministry practice. First, however, let us admit, there may be some fatigue in this area due to constant […]
Paul’s first encounter with the risen Christ was a unique one and quite frightening. The turnaround of events led Paul to follow Christ and start serving in ministry. You can imagine being struck by lightning, falling to the ground, suddenly hearing a voice from an invisible person, and becoming blind […]
I recently moved from the Washington metropolitan area (aka the DMV) to Polo, a small community in rural northwestern Illinois. I’ve become the pastor of the Polo Church of the Brethren. It’s a big change in a lot of ways, and my wife and I are still making the adjustment. […]