Deus Misereatur

(A version of these thoughts were published in 2015. This newer, reworked version was sent out in a congregational letter on 25 March 2021) Why is it that when God’s people are at their best, we are often un-trendy? What is it that sets our feet solidly on the ground while society swirls around with various forms of emotional and moral vertigo? Peter gives us clear clues in 1 Peter 1:1-5:   Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in h...

Fight for Power by Eric Walters My rating: 4 of 5 stars Society continues to disintegrate in "Fight for Power," the second volume of the "Rule of Three" series by Eric Walters. The story line follows Adam, his mother, Herb and the neighborhood into darker waters, deeper drama and a sinister spin at the end. It is an easy read written for teens that picks up where the last volume left off, and leaves the reader looking forward to the final installment. There are ethical twists, hard decisions and compassionate actions pulsing through "Fight for Power" that will bring the reader to ask themselves, "What would I do in this situation?" Again, as Walters follows the theme from the previous book, it is a "life-boat" scenario, pushing for serious decision-making. The question that crops up in subtle, and at times obvious, ways is, "What makes us moral human beings in inhuman and immoral settings?" One gets the impression that t...

O God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, who has promised that you will never leave us nor forsake us, so that we may boldly say, “The LORD is on my side, I will not fear, what can man do to me” (Psalm 118.6)? We pray for your Church throughout the nations, and specifically for New Life Church of God in Christ; Page Sanctuary; Rainbow Church of God in Christ; St. Timothy Church; Trinity Church of God in Christ and Victory Temple; sustain these brothers and sisters through the hard and happy times. Look upon their needs, provide them with all good things necessary for them to do the work you have called them to, stir up the glowing embers of their hearts, stoking the fires of your joy, love and holiness in them that they may be encouraged to remain faithful to you and consistent in their lives. O Lord, hear our prayer. Look on this congregation with your favor, O Good Shepherd. In the midst of our hurts, skinned-up hopes, and hesitations we pray in the words of yo...