Your life is not about you. That statement might seem like a paradox, but when you understand it, it provides freedom. We live in a culture that is hyper-individualistic. Most things are done …
I never imagined myself as a gardener. But this summer I became one. Perhaps that overstates it a bit. I call myself a “gardener” with a chuckle in my heart. Still, my level of engagement …
Christian nationalism is neither Christian nor patriotic. It’s a dangerous political movement. A statement by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America says it this way: “Christian …
It is interesting to read throughout scriptures how important and often the word “love” is used. We read that faith, hope and love are central to all living, but that love is the greatest of all …
How is it that we get into shipwrecks with ourselves or our significant others? Carl Jung, the world renown depth analyst once said, “What we do not make conscious will find a way to enter our …
There is something to be said about being a part of a community of people that are united in a common goal. Having played and coached soccer for many years when I was younger, I enjoyed the …
Our church took a hike the other day – on a Sunday morning – instead of having a service. We do that sometimes, to get out of the building and into the world. Whether it’s for community …
I feel fortunate to practice my faith in a country where, like me, the majority of people believe in God, where everyone is free, and most people are peaceful and able to participate in and …
Hello friends! From the Baha’i Writings: “The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole purpose of guiding mankind to the straight path of Truth. The purpose underlying …
My inspiration for today's column on the Christian faith journey comes from two places. The first is a bit odd, while the second is foundational to our American spirit and history. The initial …
Congratulations to all of our new graduates from high school and college! I would like to extend my best to you in your new and upcoming endeavors. As I recall my own graduation many years ago, I …
This past Sunday, we celebrated Father’s Day. For many, this day is filled with fantastic memories and gratitude. For others, it can be a painful reminder of past and perhaps present hurts. One …
I love birds. When I lived back east in rural central Pennsylvania, I took such joy in identifying all the various kinds throughout the seasons – huge groups of starlings in the summertime; …
She sat across the table from me. We had just finished a lovely meal and had poured a second glass of wine. They had been friends of ours for many years. The conversation turned toward religion, …
There's an old mission story that has been shared for as long as I can remember. It tells about some missionary's returning from a far off country, to update their supporting congregational members …
Typically, when I receive calls and emails from local Snohomish County leaders, it is in response to a local or national antisemitic incident. My heart sang when I received messages from …
I know I said “coach” in the headline, but let me already wander off for a moment first. Did you know you were called to minister? Yup. Now, I don’t mean you are called to be a Minister …
“Father Abraham had many sons, and many sons had Father Abraham. I am one of them, and so are you. So, let’s all praise the Lord.” This children’s song has more truth than first meets …
Hello friends! All of the world’s Holy Books counsel us to diligently nurture the spiritual aspects of our beings (what an understatement!). When Christ returned, as promised, in 1844 in the person …
As the spring season settles over the Pacific Northwest, we see the Great Artist's work come into clear view. The sun will come out, the air will warm, the robins will prance playfully around our …