I have come to think of Lent as a countercultural spiritual practice. Our society is dominated by a market ideology rooted in getting and consuming. American culture often measures success and happiness in terms of having more. Lent goes in a different direction. It suggests that growing our souls may require letting go and giving up.

In the many years of practicing the ministry I have come to know the most difficult emotional and spiritual task that people struggle with. It is a complex process essential to our salvation or being made whole. Sunday we will explore how to navigate its turbulent waters.

Recently I was asked to contribute an essay for a book about aging and meaning. For a second that freckled character from Mad Magazine came to mind and his famous phrase, "Who me?" The question, however, is for everyone because we are all aging. We have much to learn and I wonder what lesson for living has been mined from your days?

Thoughts on the relevance of Albert Schweitzer and his connection to our faith.

The Super Bowl is one measurement of what matters. A budget at home or church or business is another indication of what matters. The life of the spirit also provides a way to guide us in what matters.

Some say there is no place for race in the U.S. today. That leads me to the twin questions of identity. Whose am I? Whose are we?

A sermon for the New Year about success and failure.

A sermon for the New Year.