Author Archives: southwestrev

Some things will always remain a mystery. Like the Bermuda Triangle. Or who ate the last donut at church last week? Why did God think it was a good idea to create spiders and snakes? How is it that when we partake in the Lord’s Supper, we are consuming not only bread and wine, butContinue reading “A Heavenly High Five”

It’s been quite some time since I have picked up a pen. Of course, I am speaking figuratively, as I just set down the pen I use to make notes in my Bible every morning. What I mean is that it has been awhile since I have sat down with a cup of coffee, putContinue reading “Babel-ing On”

I will never forget my first day at Family of God. The little church on the corner of Sharon and Vernor as it was known to many. It was the day that God confirmed where He wanted me to be for the next stage of my life. A day that broke my heart for SouthwestContinue reading “Tattoo Of Grace”

Like many Lutheran answers, the answer you are looking for is often, “yes.” Meaning that when God’s Word presents us with two ideas that seem to contradict one another, but knowing that God’s Word can’t contradict itself, the answer becomes a simple “yes.” Water baptism or spiritual baptism? Yes. Is Jesus present in the Lord’sContinue reading “Confessional Church or Confessing Church?”

“This is the end. For me the beginning of life.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer said these words before he was executed in 1945 by the German Nazi regime. Even on his way to the gallows where he would hang by a wire, he was praying and proclaiming Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins; the promise thatContinue reading “Promises In Death”

Have you ever asked yourself in a moment of crisis, “What can I do?” Certainly you’ve had that moment. Someone’s world is crumbling around them while they sit on the curb with ash, fire, and smoke swirling around them. And you’re left watching it happen, feeling completely helpless because there is nothing you can doContinue reading “Power Of Listening”

I know what you’re thinking. Michael Scott? Dwight Schrute? Pam Beesly and Jim Halpert? Andy “rit-dit-dit-di-doo” Bernard? How can anyone associate these names with any kind of Gospel? For years these names and characters entered our homes and entertained us on NBC. It was the first (as far as I know) real successful show, calledContinue reading “The Office Gospel”

For years, a banner hung in the hallway at Family of God. It depicted a man in purple traveling clothes; an orange sash around his waist with red and green head covering. A fashion nightmare if you ask me. He appears to be a kind, older man with a white beard, on his knees helpingContinue reading “Intentional Love”

About two weeks ago, I stood in the pulpit on Good Shepherd Sunday. I love preaching in traditional Lutheran Churches because I enjoy the pulpit (keeps me in one place) and I get to wear my favorite stoles. Not to mention that the one I wore on this particular day is the one my wifeContinue reading “He Makes Me Lie Down”

Isn’t it funny how God often sends people into your life at the perfect time, even if it’s for a few minutes? I know we’ve all been there. When we’ve had a tough day or a difficult week and something happens that gives us just enough joy to press on to the next day. DepressionContinue reading “Curious George Rides A Bike”