Gathered worship touches my soul, regularly. The message that challenges me to a deeper love and connection and obedience. The songs that move my emotions and spirit. Talking to fellow believers to connect with them before and after the worship time. Even the announcements. Honest, because they talk about the body of Christ doing body of Christ stuff. But I struggle, regularly, with some of the song lyrics. Not the volume, not the style, not too much repetition, but the lyrics. Why? They make me sing something as a reality that always isn’t. Just one example…
Read MoreGarden Walking
Just what does it mean to “follow” Jesus? Not long ago, for many it just meant being an American. That day is done. Obeying God? That’s important, but being good is not good enough. Telling people you follow? That expression is crucial, but not central. Going to church? Nope, going to church makes you no more of a Christian than going into a barn makes you a horse. Years back I came across a verse that began a change process in me. Jesus proclaimed…
Read MoreUnChristlike Christians
Christians not living like Christians troubles me. OK, I’m more troubled by THIS Christian who doesn’t always act like he should. However, this human affliction applies to us all. But maybe we can do something about it. Over my years of following Jesus, I’ve been intrigued by how many studies indicate a behavioral/faith disconnect by many followers of Jesus. The Christian sociologist George Barna examined how five different faith groups, ranging from active to lukewarm followers to adherents of other faiths to atheists, did on 18 behavioral issues that constitute morality: most groups’ behaviors were…
Read MoreI Know Boats
Some time ago I sat in a harbor-side café, watching the seals cavorting on the docks, the boats bobbing with the gentle waves. Identifying the various styles and types, enjoying their beauty and the functionality. It came to mind that I know boats. But perhaps true knowledge requires something deeper…
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image by Jamie Tedesco of Taos, IG jtedesco8877
Victory over Darkness
My two years in Taos shaped my life and gave me a purpose and direction. I often reflect on its influence, and often miss those days. Without regrets, yet I still miss it. The dry powder of Taos Ski Valley. The eager trout just below it. Sopapillas at Michael’s Kitchen. A bowl of green chile at the Kit Carson Café. The First Baptist Church, who loved me back into the ministry. And the sunsets and sunrises! Jamie Tedesco has become a Facebook friend through another great Taos friend, Jeff Boyer.This pic of Jamie’s of an Easter sunrise provides…
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