On the Way: Reflections on Community and Hope at Allentown City Hall

Dear Friends in Christ, I usually write on a monthly basis in this space. But these are extraordinary times. I also want to share with you my own account of the events of last Wednesday evening, Feb 5, at Allentown City Hall. Not because they were problematic or alarming, or because there’s a danger that…

On the Way: A Call to Love, Heal, and Engage

Dear Friends in Christ, As we continue on the way of Christ together, we are all called to love, heal, and engage like Jesus. Here in Northeastern Pennsylvania, we are deeply aware of the common historical journey of our forebears – immigrants to this country, speaking a foreign tongue, practicing a different faith, accused of…

On the Way: We Are Called

All of us are called to lead something. Sometime in this new year 2025, leadership will come to you. It could be momentary or long term. Big or small. For pay or volunteer. At home, at work, at church. We may want to do it, or just pray we get through it. We may be…

On the Way: Bridging Generations

It was this past Friday night, in Oak Ridge, Tennessee – my hometown, my birthplace, the day after my birthday. Seated at a long table in a Mexican restaurant, my father’s favorite. He sits on the other side, across from me and my son Beau. We put Dad in the middle because he doesn’t hear…

On the Way: A Call to Service

Dear Friends in Christ – This was our first Sunday after Tuesday’s elections. I was invited to preach at worship for Maidencreek Church in Blandon, PA, alongside Pastor Bruce Schoup. This was the birthday and festival day commemorating Martin Luther, who founded our Lutheran movement in 1517. I used the Lectionary reading for this Sunday…