When I was in third grade, my grandfather made me memorize the 23rd Psalm (in the King James version, of course; is there any other way we’d prefer to hear or recite it?). At the time, I was enduring several months of “confirmation” in the...
I love the story of Pablo Casals, the world’s greatest cellist, who at the age of 93 still practiced four hours a day. When a reporter asked Casals why he practiced the cello four hours a day at the age of 93, Pablo replied, “Because…...
The signboard on the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, in New York City, said simply, “This is God’s house…all are welcome.” In a sermon one Sunday, I mentioned how much I loved that signboard and everyone in the congregation nodded their head in agreement. Then, I...
A black limousine stopped in front of Buckingham Palace in London. A man emerged from the limo who was short of stature but tall in character. He had a characteristic scowl on his face. As he walked up the steps of Buckingham Palace, the world...
I am flying out of Denver, Colorado one February twilight many years ago. To our right, the snow-covered plains stretch endlessly into the distance, the last light of the day still dancing in golden sparkles across the icy ground. On our left, the Rockies, high...
The following four questions are a test of how well we are managing our anger. Can you think of a time when you sent an e-mail in anger, and then wished you could retract it? Can you think of a time when you were angry...
It is surely cliché at this point to say that the U.S. is politically polarized. This reality is corroborated not only by the daily experience of most Americans, including older generations of people who say they can hardly remember a more divided time, but also...
The history of every family is defined by a few decisive events: weddings, births of children, moving to a new home, taking a new job, matriculating to a college or university. Family histories are also defined by illnesses, crises, and other catastrophic events. What events...
From Guest Writer: Rev. Joseph F. Scrivner, Ph.D. Pastor of Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church, Professor, Stillman College I’m a Christian. I believe God became a human being in Jesus Christ to save sinful humanity. I’m a pastor. I serve a small Presbyterian congregation. I’m a partner. I’ve...