Category: Deeply Loved Series
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On not being afraid
This time of year, Advent transitioning into Christmastide, is a time in which we frequently hear the words, “Do not be afraid.” Depending on what Gospel you are reading, an angel shows up to Zechariah, Mary, and Joseph, and begins with the same words, “Do not be afraid.” Do not be afraid. Some conclude that…
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Hurry as an Enemy of Faith
I’m back! It has been a busy week, pastorally speaking. We had a sudden death in our congregation and the pastoral tasks that go along with something of the like are great. My days (and nights) have been so consumed with work that I have not been able to even think about my blog which…
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Advent in Tension
Many of my parishioners walk to church, as most of my congregation does not own a car for financial reasons. One of these was walking the two blocks from her home to church. In that short distance she was struck by a car and died as a result of the impact. All of this while…
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A Fresh Start
The lure of a fresh start is ubiquitous. The idea that we are not tied to our past, that we are not destined to repeat the mistakes we had made, the idea that change and redemption is possible, and if only we could make a fresh start without our past following us, we could live…
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Hump Day Hymns {Advent Edition}: Comfort, Comfort You My People
Comfort, comfort you my people, Tell of peace, thus says our God; Comfort those who sit in darkness Bowed beneath oppression’s load. Speak you to Jerusalem Of the peace that waits for them; Tell them that their sins I cover, And their warfare now is over. For the herald’s voice is calling In the desert…
Matthew van Maastricht 