I tried taking a full day for Sabbath two weeks ago. It didn’t work out. I haven’t had an entire day of rest and to myself in…well. I don’t remember the last time. I had planned for a day away from both of my jobs, a day with no church obligations, no travel, and no … [Read more…]
Everyone is ga-ga over Mister Rogers and his peaceful, kind, loving Neighborhood right now. As an adult, after watching the documentary, Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, I’m totally sold on Mr. Rogers’ message and method. What an amazing and important human being. As a 6-year-old, with only six channels to choose from in the Missouri … [Read more…]
I reconnected with a few old friends a few weeks ago. They came to me as a I transitioned out of marriage and into the single life, and even before I began my seminary journey. They took car rides with me, sang me lullabies, and even showered with me. Ray LaMontagne. Jess Glynne. Andy Grammer. … [Read more…]
The smoke was the first thing I noticed when I entered the dining room. The haze hung around the room like a 1990s coffee shop — only the smoke wasn’t from nicotine-addicted patrons, but from the barbecue pit. The room was small; two oak dining tables filled the space, surrounded by two racks full of … [Read more…]
I took on a challenge, and came out victorious! Picture me, standing atop an Olympic medal stand, holding on to my piece of precious metal, beaming and happy. Just kidding. In reality, it’s much more anti-climatic. There’s no award, no certificate of merit, no orange slices or juice boxes. I signed up for, paid for, … [Read more…]
It’s no secret that I meet myself coming and going these days. I’m on the road, on the run, and always on the way. In fact, my neighbor calls me “Beep beep” because I’m in and out so much. But because I’m hither and thither, I’ve had to develop ways to stay organized, keep my … [Read more…]
A professor in one of my classes asked an open-ended question a few weeks ago, and my hand shot right up for my chance to contribute. “What do you do to manage the chaos in your life?” she asked the class, made of adult seminary professionals. She called on me, noting my eagerness. Boldly, I … [Read more…]
I didn’t want to be there. I was outright sulking as we started singing for the vespers service Tuesday night that my classmates and I mistakenly thought we were supposed to attend as part of our class requirement that night. My peers and colleagues had decided to have an impromptu worship service anyway — despite … [Read more…]
The snacks have been packed. The podcasts are keyed up. Lodging accommodations are secured. It’s time once again to hit the refuge of routine and the road. I’m ready to roll. This year is significant for me as I begin my fourth year in seminary, pursing a Master of Divinity degree from Memphis Theological Seminary. … [Read more…]
Many groups and individuals classify as the “Least of These” that Jesus talks about, but are we actually loving and ministering to and with these folks?