Pastor Note #20 — The Spiritual Exercise of Giving

So, my exercise regimen tends to change from time to time.  I am easily bored.  By switching from one thing to another – health club to high school pool to brisk walks in the neighborhood to strenuous biking.  I am currently in-between exercise programs.  I sort of like going to the gym.  Well, actually, I … Continue reading Pastor Note #20 — The Spiritual Exercise of Giving

Bible Notes #4 — Leviticus 21 & 22

Leviticus 21 & 22 In these two chapters, the strict holiness regulations are set down for the  priests.  I am struck especially by the regulations in chapter 22 concerning touching people who are unclean and thus being rendered unclean oneself.  I immediately thought of Jesus and the numerous times we hear of his touching people … Continue reading Bible Notes #4 — Leviticus 21 & 22

Prayer Note #11

A Prayer from the Winter There is a beautiful, pristine, white layer of snow covering the ground, trees, roofs, every surface.  You've sent us a lovely winter gift, though I know that it can be hardship for some. Still, it is beautiful to look at -- a sort of purity, an unsoiled and unspoiled scene.  … Continue reading Prayer Note #11

Prayer Notes #10 — Knowing and Doing

A Prayer about Knowing and Doing Father of my life, Shepherd of my soul, you have made me, and you know the purposes you have for me in this troubled life.  Raise me above the troubles and struggles, so that I may see the purpose you have for me. I won't pretend that it is … Continue reading Prayer Notes #10 — Knowing and Doing

Bible Notes #3–Exodus 13:17-18

"When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near.  For God said, 'Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.'  But God led the people around by way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea.  … Continue reading Bible Notes #3–Exodus 13:17-18

Bible Notes #2 — Ecclesiates 7:21-22

  "Do not take to heart all the things that people say, lest you hear your servants cursing you.  Your heart knows that many times you yourself cursed other."  Ecclesiates 7:21-22 [ESV] Have a thick skin!  Don't take personally everything people say.  Don't be quick to take offense.  If we are slow to take offense, … Continue reading Bible Notes #2 — Ecclesiates 7:21-22

Bible Notes #1– Jeremiah 8:6-7

This passage contains an interesting and powerful contrast.  Sinful human action is like a war horse, charging into battle.  What is such a charge like?  It is determined and direct.  It is forceful, intent on driving through every obstacle.  It is directed by a distinct purpose, the fulfillment of the rider's own intention.  It is … Continue reading Bible Notes #1– Jeremiah 8:6-7

Pastor Notes #18

Vision means being able to see.  We have natural vision – eyesight – that enables us to see the physical, material world around us.  God also grants his people spiritual vision which enables us to see spiritual realities as God moves in the world.  The writer of Hebrews tell us that spiritual vision is an … Continue reading Pastor Notes #18

Prayer Notes #9–Wanting What You Want, Lord, Then Doing What I Want

Savior, thank you for your unfailing presence with me.  Thank you for reminding me that everything I do is filled with meaning in you.  You know that I struggle against and resist so much of what you lay before me to do, because I don't "feel like" doing it.  So very much of my meaning … Continue reading Prayer Notes #9–Wanting What You Want, Lord, Then Doing What I Want

Pastor Notes #15 — A Theology of Sex

A Theology of Sex Rev. Gary A. Chorpenning We live in an age of sexual confusion.  I suspect it might be possible to make the argument that human beings have lived in sexual confusion ever since the Fall in to sin described in Genesis 3. Forty-one years ago the Presbyterian church produced “The Confession of … Continue reading Pastor Notes #15 — A Theology of Sex