We all continue to endure the political ads, blustering rhetoric, misinformation, and incivility of another election. Most of us, I think, will be relieved when the election is over. I’m not sure that candidates understand that demoralizing the electorate is not a good long-term strategy. Demoralized or not, however, as Christians, we have a responsibility to participate in elections and cast our votes. We have a responsibility to lift-up our leaders in prayer and work to make the world a better place through our political decisions. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 instructs: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

Lots of the attention to learning and growth in the church is centered on children and youth. Flowing from the promises parents make in baptism, the church helps with the shaping of young people as disciples. This is good and necessary. Yet, in our culture, we also think that once we “graduate” from school, finish the educational process in our youth, we are done, finished products with nothing left to learn.
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I’m back. After a graciously granted sabbatical, I have resumed my regular duties at Holy Trinity. I want to say, once again, “Thank you!” The foresight and care that the congregation shows in having a sabbatical policy in place is more than appreciated. It is essential. 

In a perfect garden, created by God for the sake of humanity, evil entered in the form of deception and lies. Christians refer to this story, found in the biblical book of Genesis, as the fall of humanity. This foray into human sin began when Adam and Eve, the first humans created in the image of God, were deceived.

Jacob Astley found himself entangled in the turmoil of the English Civil Wars (1642-51). A Royalist, he served as the King’s Major-General of Infantry and, just before the Battle of Edgehill on October 23, 1642, he offered a heartfelt prayer in the presence of his troops.

​​O Lord! thou knowest how busy I must be this day: if I forget thee, do not thou forget me. ~Amen