Category Archives: Spiritual
For the last several weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, forty gardeners have been planting 7 million tulip bulbs at Keukenhof Gardens in the village of Lisse, a short drive from Amsterdam, Netherlands. They are planting 900 varieties in all types of colors … Continue reading
It’s one of the hardest physical tests I’ve ever taken. When I was in high school, I played basketball, soccer and track, and those were sometimes very difficult tests of endurance. But this one, at 70 years old, I think was the … Continue reading
Yesterday, I remembered that it was on August 15, 1979, that I officially started my journey as a pastor. I was 25 years old. Already married almost five years. We had two young boys, ages 3½ and 9 months. We … Continue reading
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. While it was first recognized in 1949, it has never been more important than now to recognize the role mental health plays in our overall well-being and the value in raising awareness and helping those … Continue reading
I’ve been back in the office and back on social media for three days now after being away on a sabbatical for the last 30 days. Before I get too caught up in the busyness of work routines, I wanted to … Continue reading
I’ve heard that descriptive statement time and time again the last dozen years or more. “I’m not wired that way.” It is often said in response to me answering a question about my current role on the staff of the church that … Continue reading
For over four decades, I’ve been serving in leadership roles. And, I’ve learned at least one small thing that always leads to big things. Now, I’ve seen loads of good intentions. I’ve read the written goals. I’ve heard the New … Continue reading
I’m a pastor and a chaplain. For over four decades, I’ve been praying for people. I’ve prayed for people when they are distraught, angry, hurt, sick or struggling. I’ve prayed with people who are grateful, happy and rejoicing about their circumstances. My … Continue reading
Where do you expect God to show up? In a church? In a synagogue? In nature? Out on a boat? On a golf course? In a quiet moment of self-reflection? I listened to a podcast while out walking the other … Continue reading
The four hardest words for me to speak as a man are, “You hurt my feelings.” In the first place, it’s not even manly to talk about my feelings. Who wants to hear a man whine about wounded feelings? It’s much more manly … Continue reading
