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
faith
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 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 1: Send Off
Today is the first day of my sabbatical, and naturally, I am celebrating by… waiting for the doctor to call. Not on a beach. Not reading a book. Not doing anything remotely sabbatical-ish. Just sitting here, aggressively sipping tea and trying to swallow like it’s an Olympic sport. Nothing major—just strep throat that has decided … Continue reading Day 1: Send Off
Sabbatical Starts March 22
I was a weird kid—in the best way. Every Sunday after church, I’d rush home and play church with my stuffed animals. I directed an imaginary choir, wrote my own sermons about loving people (remember, this was the South in the 1970s), and served Holy Communion to the dog using bread and Kool-Aid. Reverent and … Continue reading Sabbatical Starts March 22
Post Christmas Sermon
I don't usually write my sermons down, but for I did for this Christmas Eve 2025. Mostly for myself, so I can remember my words. If you like to read sermons, may this one encourage you this Christmas season. Grace and peace to you from the Christ - child that brought love into the world … Continue reading Post Christmas Sermon
What Makes My Church Special to Kids
Today I wrote a letter to the families at Bethlehem Lutheran Church - Twin Cities, who attend the Minneapolis campus. While we can't meet the needs of every family, I think we do a good job on providing opportunities for kids in worship. Below is what I wrote: What Makes Bethlehem Special for Kids – … Continue reading What Makes My Church Special to Kids
VBS – The Generosity Project
If you are looking for a fun stewardship event to host this fall, check out the Generosity Project here. It is curriculum designed for congregations to talk about money, value, and faith intergenerationally. As a contributing writer to the Generosity Project, the CYF team at Bethlehem and I decided to create a Vacation Bible School … Continue reading VBS – The Generosity Project
StoryBoard 