Between Them and Us

us themActs 15:7-21

“God made no distinction between them and us.” From our present standpoint it takes some effort to hear how very radical was Peter’s statement at what’s come to be known as the First Council of Jerusalem. But for Luke, who is also the author of Acts, this is the pivot point on which the story of Spirit-inspired expansion … Read the rest

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The Look of Love

John 18:1-19:42

lookingWith fear and trembling a preacher would add any words to this passion play, which is our story of stories, and which continues to tell itself wherever love meets the lust for power and control.

So rather than adding my own words to this narrative—or adding very many of them, anyway— I want to ask you to see … Read the rest

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Proof Texting

bible-light-raysToday was the last day of training for the new Stephen Ministers at St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church. I was privileged to be part of the training team for these lay caregivers, and so I’m already grieving the goodbyes soon to come (after tomorrow’s festive commissioning) as I move on to new ministries.

Wanting to send my trainees … Read the rest

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Turning to Romans 7

The Monday after I was made a priest, just about three weeks ago, I started an intensive summer class in liturgical leadership. That’s the class that teaches us how to do the things like baptism, Eucharist and marriage. The kinds of things a priest might be expected to do. I figured that two days after my ordination might be a … Read the rest

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