Thoughts on Mark 7:1-23

Something to think about for today’s reading (which is actually 1-23, not 1-25): It’s easy for us to criticize the Pharisees and other teachers for their seeming obsession with things like washing their hands. But we should also remember that many faithful...

Brief thoughts on Mark 4:21-29

There are some in our world who proclaim a prosperity gospel and part of that includes the belief that if you simply give more (usually money) to God, then you will receive more. There are lots of examples of this (here’s one using a prayer cloth as a way to...

A brief thought on Mark 4:1-20

We’re reading through Mark as a church during Lent and I read through Mark 4:1-20 today. One quick reflection: Whenever I think of the texts that talk about not worrying about today or no getting bogged down by the cares of the world, I immediately think about...

Butts in seats

I felt really good about the sermon I preached yesterday and had a couple of very heartfelt compliments from people about it. After worship, there was the potential of a long, lazy Sunday afternoon at home and I haven’t had one of those in ages. And yet I spent...