My son, Jake, had a favorite cartoon: SpongeBob SquarePants. Since he has been on my mind (Jake, not SpongeBob), I thought I would write about him - SpongeBob and Jesus. If you told someone that a devotion on Acts 1:6–14 would begin with SpongeBob SquarePants, they might assume you’d lost your theological footing somewhere between … Continue reading Somewhere Between Bikini Bottom and Bethany
Casper the Friendly Ghost and the Holy Spirit
I am halfway through my sabbatical, and it is all going so fast! I have enjoyed writing on the Gospel text and connecting it to some of my favorite cartoons: Scooby Doo, The Jetsons, Bluey, and now, Casper the Friendly Ghost. Enjoy! Let’s be honest—Casper the Friendly Ghost is probably not the first image that comes … Continue reading Casper the Friendly Ghost and the Holy Spirit
If Jesus and Bluey Met in an Episode
If Jesus and Bluey met in an episode.... I am increasingly convinced that if the Gospel of John were written today, it would include at least one animated episode starring a blue Australian cattle dog. Specifically, the moment in John 14 when Jesus looks at his worried disciples and says, “Do not let your hearts … Continue reading If Jesus and Bluey Met in an Episode
A Drum Circle, The Jetsons, and The Good Shepherd
Right now I’m on sabbatical, which means—plot twist—writing has stopped feeling like a chore and started feeling like recess. I’m wandering into whimsical territory, writing about things I normally wouldn’t dare put on paper (or at least not without snacks). Each Sunday in the Easter season, I’m playing with the RCL gospel texts in fun, … Continue reading A Drum Circle, The Jetsons, and The Good Shepherd
Scooby Doo on the Emmaus Road
One of my favorite cartoons growing up was Scooby-Doo—a group of friends, a mystery to solve, and the strangest villains you could imagine. I often find myself comparing the stories of Jesus to an episode of Scooby-Doo. Take Gerasene Demoniac—it’s practically a perfect setup for Scooby and the gang. And the story of Jesus on the road … Continue reading Scooby Doo on the Emmaus Road
Holy Humor
I had a beautiful dream: I would blog every single day during this sabbatical. Daily reflections! Insight! Discipline! That dream lived a strong, vibrant life…for exactly one week. Turns out, blogging every day is hard—especially when you’re sick, packing bags, or zigzagging across every corner of the USA like a confused contestant on The Amazing Race. … Continue reading Holy Humor
Day 5: Date Night
Date Night is what happens when two tired parents attempt romance and accidentally trigger a crime spree. Steve Carell and Tina Fey play a couple whose most daring activity used to be falling asleep during a movie until a stolen reservation lands them in a whirlwind of gangsters, car chases, and mistaken identity. It’s marriage therapy … Continue reading Day 5: Date Night
Day 4: The Post Office
Today I broke free—from the fever, from the sore throat, and from my dramatic, blanket-wrapped existence on the couch. I re-entered society in the most glamorous way possible… by going to the—wait for it—the Post Office. Yes, I peaked early. Getting mail: This is no small thing at our house. We live in a nearly … Continue reading Day 4: The Post Office
Day 3: Faith Formation
In the fall of 2025, my role transitioned from Pastor of Family Ministry—a position I have served in for many years—to Pastor of Faith Formation. As I prepare to return from sabbatical and step fully into this new role, it is important to begin with a clear framework and strategic direction. It's all feet in! … Continue reading Day 3: Faith Formation
Day 2: Dog Groomer
As my kids got older and moved out, I did what any reasonable parent would do—I bought a dog. Not to replace them (obviously, they are irreplaceable and also significantly taller), but to bring a little comfort, and someone who still thinks I’m the center of the universe. When Noah left for St. Olaf College, … Continue reading Day 2: Dog Groomer
StoryBoard 