Q: The apostle Paul had much to say to the 1st Century Christian’s (and to us today). What was Paul’s primary focus? A: Paul’s primary focus can be summarized as the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ and its transformative power for both individuals and communities. His ministry emphasized the following key aspects: 1. …
Category: Community
May 03
Bob Polk Recognized at Doane University
Reverend Dr. Robert L. Polk became a friend of my parents, while attending Doane with them, and was best man at their wedding (in 1952). Bob Polk has had a wonderful life and has been, and is, an inspiration for thousands. Doane University named their newly built amphitheater in Robert Polk’s honor, on May 17, …
Jan 03
Howard Thurman influential American visionary, educator, and leader
Howard Thurman Howard Thurman (Nov. 18, 1899, Daytona Beach, FL – Apr. 10, 1981, San Francisco, CA) was an American author, philosopher, theologian, mystic, educator, preacher, and civil rights leader. As a prominent and inspirational religious figure, he played a leading role in many social justice movements and organizations of the 20th century. Dr. Thurman …
Nov 07
Macomb/McDonough County Community Gathering
I’m looking forward to the Community Gathering tomorrow (11/7) at 10-11 am at Veteran’s Park, in Macomb. In these crazy times, this is a time for us to gather together as a community and pray for our elected leaders and pastors. Here is the map (google doc) of how we will set up the chairs. …
Mar 17
Coronavirus, 6 days later, post
Some reflections. Wow, it’s been quite a wild ride already. Written 3/17/20. Marilyn, I, Rachel, and Diane went to Washington, DC for spring break (March 7-12, 2020). The coronavirus (COVID-19) was already a big concern before we left home. Luke decided not go. Good decision. We had a great 5 days, going to the (new) …
Jan 07
Greek root word for church and for ‘church’
There are two (different) Greek root words here. The one in the Bible (at least 115 times) is (so, this is the meaning of church in the Bible) Ecclesia – The Greek word “ecclesia” is correctly defined as: “The called-out (ones)” [ECC = out; KALEO = call]. Thus, you can see how this word was …
Jan 31
Comments on Religion – briefly
(my views) Faith first, religion follows. Faith (belief in God) is more important than religion. Faith should be the predecessor in pre-requisite for religion. Religion follows to fit one’s needs. There is a full array of available religions with many levels of orthodoxy and a wide variety of styles. Religion should facilitate one’s faith. Also, …
Jan 12
Why Americans Go to Church – still good reasons
Ok, this is quite encouraging. I’d say paeople are going to church for the right reasons. (See the top 4 in the graphic.) These reasons are biblical (what God would want), enduring (abiding), genuine (true, sincere), helpful (promoting the greater good and self). #Christian As churches (communities of faith) our challenge is to make …
Dec 22
Charitable Contributions
I saw online someone suggesting that people should contribute quick (to NCTM, in this case). My response: Yes, we should contribute to NCTM’s Trust. However, I think “charitable deductions will be treated very differently in the coming year,” is misleading. It is my understanding, with the new tax bill, that charitable deductions can still be …