Seasons change things. The awesomeness of spring in the Sonoran Desert surely moves into the blistering heat of summer. Family and friends graduate and move on with their lives. People die and are gone from our day-to-day actions. People retire from long and blessed careers. Things are always changing. My wife, Wendy, has decided to… Continue reading Guess who’s retiring?
Author: Web Admin
Pentecost – We are called!
In New Testament Greek, the word for church is ekklesia. The word is usually translated as “church,” and also means “assembly, congregation, or meeting.” The Greek literally means “called out ones” from ek meaning “out,” and kaleo, meaning “to call.” Some scholars have stressed that this “called out” sense of the word provides a hint as to how we should… Continue reading Pentecost – We are called!
What’s your mantra?
The word mantra has two parts: man, which is the root of the Sanskrit word for mind; and tra, which is the root of the word instrument. Therefore, a mantra is an instrument of the mind that we can use to help us on the way of life. For me, a mantra isn’t filled with… Continue reading What’s your mantra?
A Hallmark Holiday
Hallmark Holidays… that’s what some folks call them. The word holiday is derived from the phrase “Holy Days.” Crunch those words together and we get “holiday.” The greeting card industry has entered the picture and added many holy days to our calendar with their ultimate goal to sell more greeting cards. Now, literally, everyday is “holy… Continue reading A Hallmark Holiday
Returning to the guidelines of yesteryear?!
We are a reformed church called to continue to be reforming – in word and deed. Darwin taught us that it is not the biggest or strongest which survive, but those who adapt the best. Yet, in the news recently, parts of our government want to return to yesteryear, specifically, 1864. One hundred years before… Continue reading Returning to the guidelines of yesteryear?!
Transitions.
There is beauty in the cycles of life. There is a level of comfort in the familiarity. In the garden, we’re transitioning from springtime where we can grow practically anything and everything to heat tolerant plants. Plus, we’re trying to find shade for those who need protection from the blistering sun of summer. At home… Continue reading Transitions.
Creation Justice Sunday: April 21
Our Creation Justice Team will be leading worship this Sunday in celebration of Earth Day. Earth Day is an annual reminder that climate change has a major impact on our planet, our lives, and our future. It can also increase awareness and drive change. From LED lighting to solar panels to using compostable products to… Continue reading Creation Justice Sunday: April 21
I have reached a milestone birthday: 60.
A milestone is a significant occurrence in life – it can be reaching a certain age, or it can be an event. Often a milestone marks the start of a new chapter. For example, the day you graduated from high school was a milestone in your life. Can you remember when you were finally old… Continue reading I have reached a milestone birthday: 60.
Easter Pop Quiz
Instructions: This is an “open book” test. The answers are found in Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20-21, and Acts 1. You may do it by yourself or in a group. Comparing answers is encouraged. Place an “x” on the line if you think the answer is Biblically correct. Share this with neighbors,… Continue reading Easter Pop Quiz
Can you sum up the gospel in seven words?
“He is not here. He is risen.” Matthew 28:6. In seven words, that’s the Easter message. Several years ago, the Christian Century magazine asked this question: “What would you say is the core of the gospel? Can you state it in seven words or less?” What an enormous task! As Easter people, how would you answer… Continue reading Can you sum up the gospel in seven words?