As I sit here and write this blog (late I know) I am struck by the readings this Sunday. In Wisdom, we read about the great mercy of God. The mercy is so great that God overlooks the sins of humanity so that He may love them into repentance. Do not abuse them or hate … Read more
There are times where I am thankful that we are on a set lectionary. The readings never fail to shine a light on what we go through day to day in our mundane life. But it easy to forget that even though the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, it was a committee of theologians that … Read more
This week’s Gospel and readings center on the idea of thankfulness and gratitude. In my 24 years of ministry, I have never experienced a time where there is less gratitude or thankfulness in our world. So many people look for the fault in others, the things they can complain about, and the opportunities to pick … Read more
This weeks Gospel is pretty vivid and heavy handed. It’s the most vivid and negative parable in all of the Gospels. The beggar and the rich man. It lends the question of who will listen to the prophets, and all the warnings that they give. That change is coming, and to be ready. But most … Read more
The past few weeks have been exhausting. Going back to college at my age was a feat in itself, but managing a parish, diocese, national church, magazine, and family has been a struggle. And so often in ministry we find ourselves alone working to help those most in need. Even worse, those who claim to … Read more
“This man dines with sinners and tax collectors…” This sentiment is one that we are all to accustomed to in this parish. We know all to well the accusations that Jesus received from the “religious” legalists of his day. Today we have the same legalism but coming from our so called brothers in faith almost … Read more
This weeks Gospel gives us a parable that asks us an important question. Who is cherished in our community. For far too long we have looked at false pretenses of honor to celebrities and notable figures. But Jesus paints a clear picture the one who is deserving of honor is the one who gives back … Read more
Speaking truth to power is hard. Doing what is right is hard. We are told to stick to our guns and push back the hands of oppression and deceit. As Christians, we are also taught that we need to be a home for all people. Yet, when we spread our message of love and acceptance, we … Read more
Today I received a phone call from a very disgruntled Roman Catholic who proceeded to make me aware that I was a horrible Bishop for calling out his bigotry, misogyny, and abuse of other people. I admit, I was not as charitable as I should have been, but my humanity took over as I worked … Read more
A favorite comedian of mine, Gabriel Iglesias, has a line where he pokes fun of his weight as being fluffy. And as a former fluffy person, I get why he does it. Too often we are reminded by society that our weight is our own fault, despite that genetics, stress, and emotional factors play a … Read more