Let’s face it: breathing is essential. We cannot live on this earth without breathing. As humans we may be different in many ways, but the one thing that unites us is our breathing. Most of the time we pay little attention to this common activity. Singers and respiratory therapists would be notable exceptions. But breathing doesn’t stop for lack of notice. In a number of … [Read more...] about Breathe In, Breathe Out
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Psalms on the Trail
So I posted how my plan to hike the Appalachian Trail across Virginia is a pilgrimage for me. I also posted about figuring out meals to pack on the trail. Maybe it is time to write more about the focus of this pilgrimage: I want to stop, read and pray with a different psalm five times a day wherever I am on the trail. That means by the time I come back, I will have prayed … [Read more...] about Psalms on the Trail
A burning bush kind of question
I have always had a bit of trouble with the story of Jesus calling the disciples. Jesus says, "Come, follow me and I will make you fishers of people" —and they just jumped out of the boat and followed. Really? Where are the suitcases, and backpacks? Didn't they have families to support? We know Peter had a mother-in-law because Jesus healed her, so doesn't that mean Peter … [Read more...] about A burning bush kind of question
Pilgrim on the way
A pilgrimage is usually a journey to a sacred site. It is done with a purpose and often is a spiritual quest. It involves separation from home and ordinary life. Frequently a pilgrim walks to the destination, living simply. Popular pilgrimage sites, for Christians anyway, include the Holy Land, the Camino de Santiago in Spain, the holy city of Rome, or the mystical "thin … [Read more...] about Pilgrim on the way
Is it worth it?
It would be helpful if I were writing a sermon. Or writing a confirmation blog post. Or writing the annual pastor's report. I will start doing all those things tomorrow. But it is, after all, my day off. After a four mile, cold walk with a backpack (not far enough for a real workout), I decided to head off to a favorite grocery store that specializes in all sorts of … [Read more...] about Is it worth it?