Tag Archives: joy

Abandoning the Family

My wife, Heather, and I were just reflecting on all the changes we’ve seen in the congregations I’ve served for the past 28 years. One thing that struck us both is the number of people who have simply “dropped out” along the … Continue reading

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Reclaimed!

Last week I wrote about a conversation my wife, Heather, and I were having while enjoying a soft pretzel at “Ben’s Soft Pretzels” in Shipshewana, IN. I said I would share more about that this week. While enjoying our pretzel, we … Continue reading

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Joyful Glory!

Just after Christmas my family and I were able to get away together for a few days. We stayed in the charming little community of Shipshewana, IN. It has a large Amish population that still uses horse and buggy to … Continue reading

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JOY in Death

This past Tuesday I had the challenge and privilege of preaching and leading the funeral service for a dear friend, the wife of the previous senior pastor at the congregation I now serve. Lorna was a wonderfully faithful woman who … Continue reading

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VBS Waves

This week has been awesome! I’ve been able to celebrate the love of God, our Maker, along with nearly 400 children and staff members in Faith Lutheran, Grand Blanc’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) program. The excitement has been palpable as … Continue reading

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The Great Deceiver

“The Great Deceiver” is the name of a Bible study that several other men and I started this week. It focuses on how the devil, Satan, Lucifer…is VERY real and is an expert at deception. His greatest trick is to … Continue reading

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Let’s Talk Male & Female

Heather and I had the privilege to speak at a Theological Symposium for the Michigan District of the LCMS in Lansing, MI this past Saturday. The theme for the symposium was “Let’s Talk Male and Female.” Four keynote addresses (with … Continue reading

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Life OUT THERE in God’s Way

So often we confine our expression of faith within the walls of the church building or, if we’re a little edgy, in the walls of our home. But, my experience of late has shown that we’re surrounded by a world … Continue reading

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Post-Election Comfort

Following the U.S. elections last week, many people, all around the world, are rather unsettled, worried and maybe even fearful. This particular election process was filled with so much hostility that it seems the hurts can never be healed. That’s … Continue reading

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Joy through Pain

Have you ever been in a hail storm? I mean being out in the hail without a roof or other shelter over your head? Not something I’d recommend if you can avoid it. However, this is exactly where my family … Continue reading

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