Category Archives: Faith

Herald: God With Us

The song O Come, O Come, Emmanuel originated as a series of monastic chants over 1,200 years ago. These chants were later combined into a single hymn in the 12th century which was translated into English in the 1850s. The … Continue reading

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Herald: Unexpected Favor

Over the course of his long career, Johnny Cash performed more than thirty different “prison concerts” for inmates both in this country and around the world. He played these shows as a way of advocating for prison reform but also … Continue reading

Posted in Blessings, Christmas, Eschatology, Faith, God, Gospel, Hope, Jesus, Music, Obedience, Scripture, Social Issues, Theology | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Herald: While We Wait

We are told that good things come to those who wait. We’re told that patience is a virtue. But I have to wonder if we really believe that. Last year, Walt Disney World unveiled a new feature allowing visitors to … Continue reading

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A Proper Pastor

I received a few cards today from some of the young people in my church. I love the “Open” arrow guiding me to the sealed part of the envelope. Very helpful! I’m just over here trying to be a proper … Continue reading

Posted in Church, Faith, Humor, Preaching | 2 Comments

Harsh and Difficult

One of the Desert Fathers, Hyperechios, said: “Monk (solitary one / alone one), do not show yourself to be harsh and difficult. Be mindful that no one who is harsh and difficult has persevered.” I need this word, because I’m … Continue reading

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The Mission of God: Blessed to be a Blessing

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us — so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. Psalm 67:1-2 Why does God bless His people? Is … Continue reading

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Destroying Sinfulness

2025 will go down as the year I fell in love with the writings of the Desert Fathers. I have been deeply moved by the words of these hermits — a word transliterated to us from the Greek eremites, literally … Continue reading

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Macarius on How We Should Pray

Some people came to Macarius of Egypt (one of the desert fathers) and asked, “How should we pray?” The old man said to them, “You don’t need to keep saying the same thing; instead, stretch out your hands and say, … Continue reading

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The Knowledge to Acknowledge

Over the last few days, I have been reflecting on the story of Rahab from Joshua 2. Joshua sends two spies on a reconnaissance mission to the city of Jericho. These spies somehow end up at the home of Rahab, … Continue reading

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From Victim to Survivor

In some ways suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning. Victor Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning I first read Man’s Search for Meaning for a psychology class in college. Frankl chronicles his experience being imprisoned … Continue reading

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