Names Matter
We post-enlightenment folks tend to believe that names are simply arbitrary collections of syllables, with no connection to the essential reality of the people or things that they point to. Just as it doesn’t change the taste or consistency or any other tangible quality if I call my breakfast porridge or oatmeal, it shouldn’t make […]
Recognizing Jesus
Sometimes there are so many interesting details in one Bible story that I don’t know where to look. This third encounter between the resurrected Jesus and the disciples* is one such story: Peter naked in the boat, hurriedly putting his clothes back on before diving into the water; the very specific count of fish. When […]
Love, Faithfulness, and Determination – Apr. 28, 2022
“Peter wasn’t afraid to ask questions, to take chances, or to risk sounding dumb. He spoke up—sometimes out of turn and way too soon. He was ambitious, curious, and sometimes unclear. At times he was brave and protective (remember that guard’s ear?), and other times he was afraid and chose his own safety. All the […]
Timeless Wonder
“Is it possible to have a call – a wake-up experience – at a very young age?” The question came in the chat box on a Zoom retreat that I was leading. “Yes,” I said, “I think children do have these experiences, but usually don’t have language for them.” And I went on with my […]
