Follow this link for the audio version on this site. In our text today, you will hear about the encounter of Jesus, after His resurrection, with a man named Saul. His other name, which is not given because of his conversion but is another name that he goes by, is Paul. This may have been … [Read more…]
Romans 4:1-5, 13-16 1 What then are we to say was gained by Abraham, our ancestor according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness.” … [Read more…]
Audio Version Link This is from a five minute sermon that I was to preach. Although in general, I disagree with a five minute sermon length, there are times and places where this may be appropriate. The words of God through Zechariah are spoken to the peoples of Israel. These same words in verse 9 are … [Read more…]
Before I begin, I must advise you as the reader, that this will appear in a news letter for Wartburg Seminary. Although to keep it within the 500 word limit, it was edited somewhat. Below you will find the article in its entirety. I have also included the footnotes for this post, where it will not be … [Read more…]
It has now been three days since leaving the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation of the Lakota Indians. The last evening I would have to say held the most meaning to me. We were given the opportunity for reflection by Howard. I really enjoyed listening to him speak about his experiences and why he decided to … [Read more…]
We are to leave on Saturday from the retreat at Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota. It has been full of emotions and learning. Yesterday I developed a head cold. I was still able to put some more time into the house we have been working on. We also did some work today. We were not … [Read more…]
Yesterday we went to St. John Episcopal Church for a service done by the Lutheran pastor of the retreat. This is a very small church that was going to be closed due to the low attendance When the Lutheran pastor agreed to do the services, it was allowed to remain open. Both the church and the meeting room … [Read more…]
Yesterday I visited Lakota College on the Rez. (Reservation). The group and I were given an audio history of the Lakota Indians, accompanied by photographs on the wall of the cultural center. While listening to the history, feelings began to stir inside of me. I found myself ashamed of my government, angry, hurt, and a myriad of other emotions … [Read more…]
An open letter to my congregation: My dearest friends…..no strike that, my dearest family. I missed you all very much this Christmas. This is the first time in several years that I have not spent my Christmas Eve service at Trinity and you were all missed. Although I went to a service out in Galena … [Read more…]
This post is a response to a Facebook post I received. I find the issue so compelling that I believe it is best answered here on my blog. This is an age old question. If there is a God, why do bad things happen? Where is God and why do I not see God in … [Read more…]