“The children of Israel liked their tent, and later their temple.” The comment from a friend and colleague last night was part of a brief conversation about our new building project at St. John. It was a friendly reminder on his part that while a building is nice, the kingdom of God is not about…

When I was in high school, Bobby Kennedy visited my home town. It was quite an event. People crowded around in great number, excited to catch a glimpse of this rising star politician. Security guards and reporters surrounded him. I somehow managed to get a press pass that allowed me access to the very front…

Too often our picture of Jesus is based on our current crisis or perceived need. We’re in financial straits and we look for Jesus who promises to answer our prayers or provide for our needs. We’re sick and we look for Jesus who heals diseases. We are lonely and we look for Jesus who promises…

On the one hand we know that God needs nothing: he owns all things. The deep places of the earth are in His hand. The sea is his for he made it. Yet when Jesus approaches Jerusalem the week of his death, he speaks of his need for a donkey. We may not often think…

Steve was the coolest guy I knew in junior high school. He was bigger than life, good with the girls, popular and good looking. I was pretty much – in my own opinion – a nobody. But I had a pool! Since I lived at our parent’s motel, I had the use of our swimming…

Jesus’ prediction of his death, and his invitation to the blind men are the bookends for a most impertinent request on the part the mother of James and John, and a clear focus on his purpose and calling. What a powerful testimony to Jesus’ sense of mission, his clarity of purpose and his merciful compassion…

God is looking for workers in his kingdom’s cause. He continues to seek people who will join themselves to this work. He promises a fair wage (“whatever is right” – v. 4) as he sends them to work. The reward will come at the end. When it comes, however, so does the distress: everyone receives…

I’ll admit it: I struggle sometimes with these thoughts about fairness, privilege, and envy. Given the right circumstances (not to make excuses for myself!), so do most people. For me it was just last night. I went to the airport to pick up Diane. I got there early enough that I had to circle around…

Perfect?!? How about “good enough?” Why not “pretty good?” Why does Jesus speak here about being perfect? Perhaps it has to do with the nature of God. Maybe it has to do with the nature of life itself – a gift of God.   Some people, facing grave health challenges, may be only half alive.…