Moment of Grace This past Sunday morning, I found myself doing something I’ve never done before. Proffering the bread in communion to each person kneeling at the communion rail — saying the words The Body of Christ — and looking them … [Read more...] about “Les Miserables”: Finding God in the theatre (part 1)
David Brooks: From crooked timber to a life of service
It’s the belief that all of us are broken, that no timber is made straight, that life is intended to be a series of struggles and lessons — and that all of this builds moral fiber and strength of character. I WAS SITTING in a job interview — at a … [Read more...] about David Brooks: From crooked timber to a life of service
Philip Yancey: The Wanderer (Part 1)
I WAS SEVERAL years out of my Conservative Mennonite community before I ran into the author Philip Yancey. During that confusing season, I somehow managed to join, piecemeal, an Episcopalian church, a Presbyterian church, and a … [Read more...] about Philip Yancey: The Wanderer (Part 1)
Walt Walker: How Not to Quit Your Job
I FIRST MET Walt Walker when I was a junior at Malone College in Canton, Ohio. I was studying to be a teacher, and the requirements for an Ohio Teaching Certificate demanded I do ten weeks of student teaching. When I checked in at the front … [Read more...] about Walt Walker: How Not to Quit Your Job
Memoir: Tent Revivals, Wayward Husbands, and Chicken Dinners
AN OLD JOKE — A born-again Baptist dies and goes to heaven. He is met by St. Peter, who begins to show him the wonders of heaven: water of life, golden streets, personal mansion, a special pew in the heavenly choir. But something odd happens as … [Read more...] about Memoir: Tent Revivals, Wayward Husbands, and Chicken Dinners
Driving with Joe Overholt
WHEN I THINK back to my childhood, I remember one person who was truly unforgettable. Within our community, Joe Overholt was an authentic individual. He lived a life which broke all the rules. He was a gypsy, a lover of learning, a musician. He … [Read more...] about Driving with Joe Overholt
