Category Archives: Grace
“Through the wall of flame.”
As a frightened man in a burning boat has only one way to the rest of his life, we must move with courage through the wall of flame into the greater sea. — Mark Nepo, Book of Awakening, p 172 … Continue reading
Love abounds.
Last week I experienced disappointment and failure in a fairly public way. I also experienced a mind-blowing, heart-expanding outpouring of love and encouragement from friends, colleagues and loved ones. Once again, I am reminded that, without risk and messiness, I … Continue reading
A third way.
Recently I was in a conversation with a friend, who expressed that he vacillates between two different ways of relating to me: blunt assertiveness or drawing back with a very passive stance. I understand where he is coming from. But … Continue reading
“Bless these gifts.”
Over the past two or three days, I find myself needing to unfurl my clenched fist, to loosen my grip and let go. I find myself longing to integrate parts of myself and my journey that might seem incongruent or … Continue reading
“Romance, finance and self-importance.”
Just this morning I heard a friend make the observation that “romance, finance and self-importance” are the three areas that are most likely to get him off-track. These distractions — trying to find love, scrambling for money or seeking an … Continue reading
Becoming friends.*
It was my privilege to preach this sermon at the 172nd Convention of the Diocese of Florida at Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville, Fl, on Jan. 30, 2015. Micah 6:6-8 Hebrews 12:1-2 Matthew 25:31-40 Psalm 15 O Lord, may only … Continue reading
Boundaries.
Got a call today from a well-meaning Christian person who has a “really cool project idea,” making videos to send to family and friends from whom individuals may be estranged. They have a great idea – they just need access … Continue reading
Expectations.
Time and again, we have been warned to avoid having expectations. Our 12-step friends often caution us: “An expectation is a resentment waiting to happen.” The wisdom in this is indisputable. When I shift from dreaming dreams and making plans … Continue reading
The heart of God.
The following sermon was preached this Thanksgiving Day at St. John’s Cathedral, Jacksonville, FL. (Deuteronomy 8:7-18; Psalm 65; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Luke 17:11-19) May we experience that Love which is no respecter of persons. In the name of God, Father, … Continue reading
Seven chaplains.
Twelve days ago, I had emergency surgery to remove my gallbladder, followed by a second surgery to remove a wayward stone that was wreaking havoc. Typically these procedures involve no more than a one-day stay, but I had a persistent … Continue reading
