Before Rubeus Hagrid arrives on the hut on the rock and informs Harry that he is a wizard, destined to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry Potter spends 10 years of his life living in a literal closet, …
Continue readingOkay, we’re among friends here, right, and I need you not to judge me for my taste, but years ago I used to love this fluffy TV show called “Fantasy Island.” Each week two guests flew to a mysterious tropical …
Continue readingAbout a year and a half ago, I attended a lecture by the New Testament scholar and historian of early Christianity, John Dominic Crossan. If you have ever sat near me during a lecture, you know that I am a …
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In 2000, I was a college student working as a part-time children’s ministry leader. There were two fourth grade boys in my Wed. afterschool group who did not want to do anything except play four-square and hide in the basement …
Continue readingHere is what J.K. Rowling says about Harry Potter’s iconic scar on his forehead: “I wanted him to be physically marked by what he has been through inside. I gave him a scar and in a prominent place so other …
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The Surprise Garden Revisited Mark 4; Psalm 126 Meditation, part 1 It’s been five years since I preached here for the first time. The audition sermon for ministers in a search in our denomination is now called a “candidating sermon.” …
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The Garden of Eden, a perfect place. Safe, comfortable, a place where everything is named and maintained. A place where all of your needs are met – and we have learned that when all of your needs are met, you …
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Lately, I have been reading several science fiction novels. It’s my favorite genre. My partner recently gifted with wonderful book called The Sparrow. For those of you who have not read it, it is about a group of Jesuits who, …
Continue readingScripture reading: 1 Peter 4:8-9 8 Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without complaining. 10 Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve …
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We are in the season of pivotal moments—spring, graduation, Memorial Day when we remember those who have died in service of the country, endings and beginnings. Big and small moments mark the times of our lives, touchstones. “I remember that,” …
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