This week, I found myself reflecting deeply on the concept of goodness—how it manifests in my life and the lives of those around me. It became a journey of discovery, filled with meaningful conversations and moments of introspection. One such moment occurred during a class I taught on healthy relationships, where we discussed trust, respect, … Continue reading Finding and Manifesting Goodness in Our Lives
As we continue our exploration of the Fruits of the Spirit, we come today to faithfulness—a profound and often challenging virtue. While the Gifts of the Spirit are distributed as needed, the Fruits of the Spirit are qualities we are all invited to cultivate. Faithfulness, like love, joy, peace, and the others listed in Galatians … Continue reading Embodying Faithfulness
In our fast-paced, often harsh world, gentleness can seem like a forgotten virtue. Yet gentleness is a profound and essential aspect of walking the path of Jesus. Take, for instance, Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus extends a gentle invitation to all who are weary and burdened: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, … Continue reading Gentleness: A Forgotten Virtue in Modern Society
In our fast-paced world, self-control often feels like a rare commodity. Yet, in our spiritual lives we are called to cultivate this vital fruit of the Spirit. Recently, I had the opportunity to reflect on this while preparing a sermon focused on the importance of self-control and how it can transform our lives and relationships. … Continue reading Cultivating Self-Control: A Spiritual Journey
Some days, I become acutely aware of how heavily I walk in the world. There’s an awakening to the weight of my steps and how deeply connected I am to this planet and everything on it. I am alive and part of it all, stretching far beyond this tiny corner of the universe. In these … Continue reading Walking Gently in the World
This morning, I found myself sitting with my journal, reflecting on the journey I've been on with my faith. I've been reading Ken Wilber’s latest book, Finding Radical Wholeness, and it has stirred some deep reflections within me—especially about the daily challenge of finding meaning in the sacred texts I engage with. I try to find ways … Continue reading When Every Word is Translation: Reflections on Communication and Faith
I grew up learning to drive a car with a manual transmission. My dad drove a Volkswagen Super Beetle, and that's the car on which I learned to maneuver with a third pedal under the dashboard. There is a certain finesse in learning to change gears: reverse, first, second, third, and fourth. Later, I even … Continue reading The Art of Shifting Gears: Embracing Sabbath Rest and Vacation
Today is July 1 on the calendar; this reflection is not my usual when it comes to my blog posts. At the beginning of this new month, clergy in the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church begin the first day of their “new” assignment since these assignments or appointments are made annually. Each … Continue reading Reflections on 32+ Years: Lessons from a Journey of Faith and Service in a Single Congregation
This morning, as I settled into my chair for my daily practice, I was reminded of the profound importance of gratitude. Life itself is a beautiful gift, with every moment brimming with potential and wonder. Yet, too often, I find myself preoccupied with what the future might hold, forgetting to appreciate the present and the … Continue reading Living from a Place of Givenness
The author reflects on how they cling tightly to their interpretations of sacred texts, cautioning against confirmation bias. They encourage letting go of preconceived notions and listening deeply for new meaning. Questions prompt readers to consider how their interpretations have evolved and how to remain open to new perspectives in sacred reading.
Infinitely Precious 