Are you drawn to a particular gospel writer? Some love Matthew with the power of the Sermon on the Mount and the insight calling us to help “the least of these” in chapter 25. Mark stands out for some with its straightforwardness, lack of a birth narrative, and how it ends. Luke, who begins by… Continue reading Writing our story with intentionality
Author: Web Admin
What is dead within us?
Life is precious; life is short; be intentional. “The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” – Psalm 51:17 The marks of Ash Wednesday remind us of our mortality. From dust we have come and to dust we shall return. I’m reminded of… Continue reading What is dead within us?
Women of Courage
On being intentional with our listening
Master of the obvious – that’s me! When… Jesus asked a lame man at the Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem (John 5:6) if he wanted to get well. The answer seems obvious. And yet questions (even questions with apparently obvious answers) have the uncanny ability to clear away assumptions. We should never assume that every sick… Continue reading On being intentional with our listening
It’s Hard to Let Go
A Letter from Paul The Season of Lent has begun. What can you and I let go of and what do we need to hold on to? Lent is a great time to examine what we prioritize and value. Every move I have made, I have struggled letting go of my stuff – even things… Continue reading It’s Hard to Let Go
The countdown begins
This year both Pastor Jim and I turn 60. That’s right, both of us! I am a few months older than him. Well, lo and behold, I am counting down the sixty days before I turn 60. Each day, I want to do something to improve flexibility and my physical ability. Jesus had 40 days… Continue reading The countdown begins
Living A Different Story: A Message From Jerusalem
Kay Klinkenborg knows Elie Pritz, the author of this piece, who lives and works in Jerusalem. She was raised there and is a Christian who, 10 years ago, founded a NGO to work on peace curriculum in teaching children K-12 non-violent options and peace building. Elie has lived her entire life in Jerusalem, has an American… Continue reading Living A Different Story: A Message From Jerusalem
Now what?
At the Annual Meeting last week, we reviewed all that made last year come alive as a church. There was much to celebrate: 52 new members, a balanced budget, purchase of a new bus (and it’s paid for!), installment of Homeless Jesus, and the expansion of our social justice ministries. Read the annual report for more details. My… Continue reading Now what?
YOU are invited. No need to RSVP.
Our Annual Meeting is this Saturday, January 27 at 9 am in the sanctuary. Let this serve as your official invitation: You are invited! No need to RSVP. Just show up! The Palms has had a colorful history of Annual Meetings. Each one of the meetings takes on its own personality. There is one constant:… Continue reading YOU are invited. No need to RSVP.
A top 10 list for alive churches
What makes a congregation come alive? I’ve asked some friends across the nation and have gleaned their thoughts on this matter. Here’s a top 10 list for alive churches. 10. Alive churches adjust their sails. They know change is the only way growth happens. Change is a gift from God.9. Alive churches ask a lot… Continue reading A top 10 list for alive churches