“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27 These comforting words have been spoken at countless memorial services. They are a reminder to the living that in spite of […]
I was struck by a comment that Rich Logis made recently. Rich is the founder of the nonprofit, “Leaving MAGA.” He described his time in the MAGA universe as, “It was exhilarating and enthralling, until it wasn’t. When I left, I came to realize that I had essentially been addicted to rage.” Anger and rage […]
“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.” Romans 12:2 Message Bible I have officiated at hundreds of funerals in the years of my ministry. A sense of celebration for a life well lived, […]
When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Religious authorities, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples […]
Anyone who knows me for very long, learns that I love flowers. I love all kinds, all varieties, all colors. One of my favorite places is the nearby Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Even in the midst of winter, I can find flowers blooming in the conservatory. There is something nurturing and healing, being in the presence […]
“The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.’” Matthew 28:5-6 My confidence in the arrival of Spring wanes in years of bitter winter nights and sluggish March days. Yet, even when […]
Holy One, Shock and save me with the terrible goodness of this Friday, And drive me deep into my longing for your kingdom Until I seek it first- Yet not first for myself, But for the hungry And the sick And the poor of your children, For prisoners of conscience around the world, For those […]
A Pastor's Heart 
I have always seen that Psalm as being about the Temple or tabernacle, because of what’s in the rest of the verses. But in thinking about it some more, I remember that the tabernacle and the Temple were made with God’s specifications down to the last detail. (Like the flowers He created!) The builders made it exactly as He had instructed, which was why it was so beautiful. And I believe God sees true beauty in obedient servants, whatever things large or small we do to serve Him. HE is what makes any place beautiful, and when we are in the center of His will, we are, too. <3
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your reflection. The words popped into my mind as I was thinking of day I had spent at an Arboretum, with all the beautiful flowers and blossoms around me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the way Scripture pops into our minds in unexpected but appropriate places. :) <3
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow I like this message.
You see I think if we meditate on this powerful scripture we get a glimpse too .
I recall Jacob making a similar remark Gen 28:17
New Living Translation
But he was also afraid and said, “What an awesome place this is! It is none other than the house of God, the very gateway to heaven!”
I think there are moments when you can sense the presence or His aura but you feel like its just a glimpse, then you think how excellent is actually His dwelling place.
The answer we will be looking for is, “There is more from where its coming from”
Great work!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your reflection on this piece. I believe there are places made sacred by the prayers of God’s people. Certainly, places of joy and praise are among them.
LikeLike