I have always wondered if Mary really knew what she was getting into or how hard being the earthly parent to God’s son, the prince of Peace, would be. I wonder how she found joy in the midst of what was a really messy situation? 

If you are feeling a little sad or blue this Christmas, or know someone who is going through a tough time, here are a few suggestions on how to get the most out of this Advent season. 

Thanksgiving is the favorite holiday of only 2 percent of Americans. Can you believe that? I love Thanksgiving… the food is great, yet I love it because it is a time when everything pauses for just a moment to give thanks.

When was the last time you were able to savor the moment?

My prayer for you in the week ahead is that each one of you will slow down and savor the moment. May that lead to delight and a heightened sense of gratitude within you.

There are an estimated 19 million veterans in the United States. I wonder how you and I might celebrate Veterans day this year? How can you and I join in showing our veterans appreciation and support?

So many great stories of impact have taken place through the people of Aldersgate UMC. We have so much to be grateful for… I am excited about 2022 and the ministry that is ahead for us all here in North Carrollton.

This Sunday is Halloween and thinking about our last sermon series: Living Faith. I’ve been thinking about ways we might love on our neighbors and friends this year from our front porches on Halloween. Here are a few ideas…

Personal invitation is just one way you and I can fulfill our membership vow of being a witness.

Do you have Thursday, October 28 on your calendar?

I hope you do! It is our annual Charge Conference. I encourage any and all members and constituents of Aldersgate UMC to attend. Why?

We can choose how we respond to our daily blessings and challenges. I won’t lie and say that the last 18 months have been great, because they haven’t.

October is also a time to celebrate the diversity within the Church and our unity within. I love World Communion Sunday.

Words matter… Our words can bring life and they can deal a death blow. Proverbs 18:21a reads, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…”

Can you picture it, a submarine that can go underwater with a screen door?

Yet, the struggle is real. And when you are in the middle of it, it is hard to see anything else but the struggle.

Maybe you can relate to this… I struggle with not always knowing what to do, especially when chaos is around me.

I love getting to be part of a church who doesn’t just say they love their neighbors, but is a church that lives the ethic of love out in extravagant acts of generosity.

At the beginning of the summer, I and probably most of you were thinking and maybe even feeling, a new normal. I anticipated with the increased vaccinations and low spread rate this fall would be different from last. Then this next wave happened. And again, we are forced to reevaluate everything and consider, “What’s next?”

How would you explain the bible to someone who has never been to church or read the bible?

As a parent, I am excited to see my kids grow and learn. As your pastor, I’m excited to watch each of you grow as we all find our “new normal.” A new school year provides a fresh start for students, teachers, and administrators. It is also an opportunity for all of us.

As you continue to consider how God is sending you out in love, remember that Jesus shows up in the mundane, and regular parts of life.