Day #1551

March 31, 2018

As I finish preparation for Easter worship, this from the Moravian Daily Prayer is good to have in mind: "Help us seek out and comfort those around us who long for Easter hope."

It's really a good reminder for every day!

Blessings.

Day #1550

March 30, 2018 

What could be more appropriate than at 3:00 pm (where we live) on Good Friday, the skies darkened, the wind blew and the snow began to fall! A reminder that on the day Jesus hung on the cross, even nature succumbed to the tragedy.

And a thank you to everyone who helped make the worship services on this day meaningful! 

Blessings.

Day #1549

March 29, 2018

On Thursday during Holy Week, I am remembering my colleagues and friends as we begin the great Three Days of worship. May God’s peace surround them all.

And this reminder of the importance of Maundy Thursday from the Moravian Daily prayer: “As they gathered to break bread and drink the cup you revealed your love and grace.”

As we gather tonight to celebrate this moment and give thanks for Jesus’ gift to us of his body and blood in and through the bread and wine, may the three young folks receiving the meal tonight for their first time be assured of that love and grace. Not only tonight, but each time they receive! Really, all of us!

Blessings.

Day #1548

March 28, 2018

If Tuesday during Holy Week means getting the work done at the office, Wednesday means making some visits. And the laughter, and the holy, during those times always warms my heart!

Then, just as the day ends, is this:

What beautiful words!!!!

Blessings.

Day #1547

March 27, 2018 

Tuesday means one thing during Holy Week - getting the work done. I’m so grateful for the staff I’m blessed to work with. You all rock!!!!!

And the volunteers who make certain all is as it needs to be, I cannot say enough thanks! You all rock, as well!!!

I'm grateful!!!

Blessings.

Day #1546

March 26, 2018

A prayer for Holy Week:

Almighty God, as we walk through this week with you, accompanying your celebration of the Passover with your disciples, and your Passion and the cross, give us strength to remember that your death was not the end. Sunday is coming!! Amen.

Then there was this at supper: 

How would a fortune cookie know!?!?! Let's just say I hope it's true!!!

Last, but not least, this on the way home just before dark:

Of course it is simply the random crossing of the contrails of two jets, but it seems like a lot more than that to me. Yes, I'm feeling God strongly today and the intersections are certainly welcome!!!

Blessings.

Day #1545

March 25, 2018

And so with Palm Sunday, the holiest week of the church year begins. The week that made all the difference, turning the world upside down and inside out. We are off with a glorious worship service and a visit with folks from Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp to talk about camp and its ministry. 

Then the counselors had some fun with the kids - helping them learn and grow. 

What you see above is the aerial “blueprint” for a theme park. Doesn't it look like a fun place!!! What was really fun was witnessing youth work together to design it. I'm ready to go - are you?!

Blessings.

Day #1544

March 24, 2018

As promised, Boomer’s eight month anniversary picture:

Hard to believe he’s the same little fellow we brought home last July. Maybe we have been feeding him grow juice instead of puppy food?!?!

But the highlight of today, and a definite intersection of faith and life, was the annual WELCA Brunch. ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton was the speaker for the day (yes, really!), along with MT Synod Bishop Jessica Crist offering devotions. Two female leaders in the church who I not only admire, but deeply respect (not the best picture, but definitely a "best" moment!).

What a wonderful event! So thank you for the impeccable planning, terrific decorations, delicious food, beautiful music, and for all those who were able to attend. A truly inspiring day.

Blessings.

PS Ok, yes, I marked an item off my bucket list and was able to take a selfie with Bishop Eaton. :-)!

Day #1543

March 23, 2018 

Today is National Puppy Day - who knew there was such a thing!?!? 

But we celebrate Boomer, who at just over nine months old, is still very much a puppy at heart - even though he is 75 pounds. So stay tuned for his eight month anniversary picture with us tomorrow - and see how he’s grown!

Happy Puppy Day to all those in the midst of snuggling, and training, their new family members!

Blessings.

Day #1542

March 22, 2018

The word for the day - thankful. For a morning ride to a town about 30 minutes outside the city. Snow geese, antelope, Belted Galloway cows (that always make me smile!!), and snow-covered mountains were just a part of the beauty I was privileged to drive past.

The drive led me to a wonderful gathering with a group of dedicated and wise leaders that topped the day. It is always a joy to be in study and conversation with colleagues!!

Blessings.

Day #1541

March 21, 2018 

We said an early morning goodbye (sadly!) to family, only for them to get stuck in an airport part way home. :-( Spring has not been kind in all places, and snow storms in the east are causing havoc. Rats!

Later in the day, while at the hospital, I said thank you to one of the medical staff for what they do for folks and how important their job is. Aren’t you a pastor, she asked? Yes, I am. Then what you do is maybe even more important. I think we work hand-in-hand, I replied. And she smiled. I am thankful for medical personnel, but even more for the great physician, almighty God. 

Lastly, toward the end of the day, we heard the final faith sharing for our Lenten worship services. I am grateful for the ways that God works in and through each of us, in various ways and methods, yet always in a loving, grace-filled way. Thanks and praise to God!

Blessings.

Day #1540

March 20, 2018

On this first day of spring (oh, welcome to you, glorious spring!!), we journeyed with family to the state capital. What a beautiful day, at nearly 50 degrees, to enjoy the city! 

Happy Spring!

Blessings.

Day #1539

March 19, 2018 

A prayer for this week:

Almighty God, your love for the world seems to be misunderstood in so many ways and in so many places. Instead of seeing your Light and being transformed by it, there are those who wish to snuff out your Light, and the ones who proclaim it. Protect those who are persecuted for their belief, their witness, their faith. Watch over them and give them courage to trust you in the midst of the hatred subjected toward them. Amen.

Blessings.

Day #1538

March 18, 2018 

What a gift to be able to talk with youth about Holy Communion! But the fun is baking the bread.

May these young ones soon know the love and grace of God through Jesus’ body and blood. 

And Boomer has been enjoying immensely the attention of his aunt and uncle. Doesn’t he look so innocent and peaceful. 

HA! Don’t let him fool you!!!

Blessings.

Day #1537

March 17, 2018

As mentioned a couple of days ago, there is much art to see this week. And while I know we are missing just as much as we are seeing, my eyes are full. I’m just in awe of the talent, however!

And, whether there is Irish blood in your veins or not, I wish you the Luck O’ the Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. And always!

Blessings.