Worried that “stewardship season” is fast approaching and you don’t know what to do? Here’s an annual appeal that Faith Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND, is sharing with everyone. Access everything from letters to members to brochures that you can customize for your own congregation. (Photo by HolgerE, used under Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Lectionary Reflection, 15th Sunday after Pentecost, September 5, 2010
Hey, Jesus, you really want me to stand up in front of a congregation and preach this text? Are you kidding me? Most people will hear this text with enough law-lensed baggage to stop their ears. As preachers and teachers, we need to lift up the grace and hope that comes with living “cross-wise” in the world.
‘JUST LIVING’ Blog
Does shopping really make everything better? Is our consumer economy sustainable? You be the judge and weigh in with your experiences and opinions.
‘IT’S PERSONAL’ Blog For about four long weeks, during the hottest part of a hot summer, rain avoided Adams County in south-central Pennsylvania, where I live. The broiling sun toasted our lawns brown and turned the blades of grass brittle and spiky. The lush green of the trees dulled and the branches and stems drooped. […]
Lectionary Reflection
August 15, 2010, 12th Sunday after Pentecost
“Something there is that doesn’t love a wall” says the narrator in Robert Frost’s poem “Mending Wall.” Could that “something” be the gospel? We humans build walls that Jesus is in the business of shattering, but there is still pain and cost. How do we preach this text without throwing up additional walls?
Lectionary Reflection
11th Sunday after Pentecost, August 8, 2010
As Christians, we need not live our lives steeped in fear and anxiety about what may happen. Instead we are called to be ready, to fully invest in faithful discipleship, and to live the good news so that all may see and know the love of God in Christ Jesus.
‘Just Living’ Blog
Our blogger still aspires to simplify her wardrobe ala Audrey Hepburn’s classic style. Progress is happening, but even this aspect of “closet” stewardship is more process than destination.
‘Just Living’ Blog
Summertime…and the living is, well hot and humid. Instead of cranking the AC a few degrees cooler, our blogger is turning the thermostat up and considering the impact of being cool on the planet and her neighbors.
Lectionary Reflection
August 1, 2010, 10th Sunday after Pentecost
How do we preach about the freedom in Christ that allows us to fling wide the barn doors and let go of our “stuff” and resources? This week’s text from Luke’s gospel offers a fine albeit problematic opportunity for the preacher who is willing to take some risks.
‘Just Living’ Blog
Does VBS have to be a costly, lavish production in order to share God’s love and pass on the faith? No way! Try a Minimalist’s VBS, and you will be pleasantly surprised.
