Essays and reflections on spiritual formation, the church, music, and daily faithfulness — 648 pieces, gathered in one home.
April 22 is “Earth Day,” so as always, the whole world celebrates my birthday. But this year I turned the big “6.0.” So I’m reflecting on life more than usual. I’m grateful for you
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
It's clear in the book of Acts that the DNA of the early church was built on three ideas that got them in lots of "good trouble." They spoke truth to power with the assertion that
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I wrote my letter in supoort of restoring funding for the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. I urge you to write yours. — Dear Governor Ivey, Grace and peace to you. It is my under
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I’m celebrating the new home of a very special prayer kneeler in a new UMC! It was originally placed in memory of my grandmother. It was for the UMC I served as founding pastor man
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Richard Rohr calls out “cultural Christianity.” I believe this wholeheartedly. It’s an alternative way. — “If our love of God doesn’t directly influence, and even change, how we en
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This deeply biblical insight on welcoming the stranger is challenging for us! “This fundamental regard for the resident alien, and call to solidarity with the ‘outsider,’ came to f
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Fair Haven, here I come! Following up on my recent post about our future, I wanted everyone to know my new opportunity is confirmed! I’m excited. We announced this week to the resi
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Have you ever been left holding the rope? I am this week’s “Read Together” podcaster. Join me as we explore the story of Joseph in light of Family Systems Theory! You can find it H
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
For those of you who do not attend the church I serve, let me take this opportunity to share some important news about our future. Sandy and I have thoroughly enjoyed our five year
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Here is a letter from the United Methodist Council of Bishops to President Trump regarding foreign aid. We are the church bring the church. Read the letter HERE.
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
There has always been a prophetic edge to preaching if done with integrity. Otherwise, why would Jesus have said “blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and sprea
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Though my Alma mater closed this past May, we are keeping the annual Carol service tradition alive. It was my joy and privilege to sing in it in December of 2024. I invite you to h
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Really? I guess this constitutes the first set of “GMC incited” deaths. Three United Methodists were killed in Nigeria as a result of GMC violence. “We further urge GMC members, at
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Looking for a thoughtful Christmas gift for a faithful United Methodist? To mark its second anniversary, I offer my book for a discount (only $18 including free shipping in the US)
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This potent quote is from “The Crucible of Racism: Ignatian Spirituality and the Power of Hope” by Patrick Saint-Jean, SA. “The white church has often cherry-picked its way through
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I was privileged to do the “Read Together” podcast this week. The introduction reads “Rev. Steve West identifies three core values of the early church that the world found offensiv
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Some of us grieving today and others are quietly celebrating. We’ve had a presidential election. We are a diverse nation and even a diverse Church, and there must be a variety of f
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Welcome to the world, Charlie! You are the most beautiful granddaughter a Pops could dream of!
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
. Anticipation. Anticipation. It's making me wait. As you probably know (since I've mentioned it, oh ... dozens of times), Sandy and I are eagerly awaiting a new granddaughter. As
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
As I pray and continue to find healing and perspective after last year's season of church disaffiliations from the main body of the UMC, on a recent retreat I wrote down these twel
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I saw a post in a clergy forum on social media, from a pastor of a church that disaffiliated but he remained with the UMC. He simply want to say thank you to others who did so as w
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I recently listened with an open heart to the sermon of a pastor who is one of the separatists who recently left the UMC. He articulated (very well) how their movement falls solidl
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Celebrate with us on the return of a wonderful Uganda mission trip. 18 of us (9 from our church, 5 relatives, and 4 joining us through Africa Children’s Mission, or ACM) enjoyed an
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
To celebrate a historic General Conference and uplifting Annual Conference, I’ve made my book available for a discount. Amazon and Wipf & Stock have it for $21. I’ll send you a cop
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
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