Today (January 6) is Epiphany. Among other things, it reminds us that there are 12 days in Christmas, that Christmas is a “Season” in the Church calendar, that we ought to give it a whole lot more attention, reflection, and prayer than just one day! Matthew 2:1-12 is the standard Gospel lesson for Epiphany— recounting …
An Epiphany Meditation: “You Can Go Home Another Way!” Read More »
In his Autobiography of Prayer, Albert Day tells the story of a young boy whose pride and anger were so great, he came to such a point of protest and rebellion that he no longer wanted to be a part of his family. Partly to accommodate the child, partly to buy some peace, and mostly …
A Christmas Meditation: Good News from the Attic Read More »
They came about this very same time of year— seeking money for food. Tired. Unkept. Unemployed. She, expecting a child. The young couple explained that they had their tickets for the bus trip home. All they needed was money for food for their three-day journey. “Money?,” I asked. “Well, yes,” they told me, “the bus …
An Advent Meditation: Not Forsaking What We Need Because We Aren’t Getting What We Want Read More »
“Reel Theology” is the name we have given to an exploration of sacred themes across a wide spectrum of films. “Cinema Divina,” I have referred to it elsewhere. Other titles that come to mind include “Seeing God at the Movies” and “Focused Discussions at the Intersection of Hollywood and Divine.” (It was the focus, in …
“Reel Christmas”: Affirming the Eternity Cast Among Us Read More »
Our ancestors, in an all out effort to save the holy celebration of Christmas, very wisely included a time of preparation, an Advent season, to properly prepare for our Lord’s birthday. They did not feel spiritually ready for Christmas until they had prayed, fasted, and examined their hearts in a season of winter Lent—Advent. (Pastor Bill …