An innocent man was murdered because he was assumed a threat. His mere existence was a threat to their worldview and way of life. So they callously killed him like many before him. They didn’t carry out the heinous act themselves but empowered the authorities to carry out their unjust collective will. There was no justice for his family, not even a hope for it. However, there … [Read more...] about Justice and the Sabbath
The Essentials
Our two-year-old son, Azzan, is blissfully unaware of the pandemic that has halted the world. Azzan is currently living his best life. He has no idea what has happened to the economy. He has no concern that he can't go to daycare for the foreseeable future; he knows nothing of the anxiety and fear that is gripping so many. All he is aware of is that he has much more time with … [Read more...] about The Essentials
How to Neighbor
When we moved into our neighborhood eight years ago, I was very excited about the prospect of having neighbors. I had grown up with TV shows depicting neighbors wandering in and out of each other's homes, sharing meals and bringing welcome baskets. As first-time homeowners, I was sure this awaited us in our new neighborhood. I imagined kids playing, neighbors sharing recipes, … [Read more...] about How to Neighbor
Disconnect to Connect
Some years ago, I spoke at a chapel service for high school students. I asked them, “How many hours do you spend on the phone with someone you are dating or interested in?” Spending hours talking on the phone with a special friend used to be typical. From the answers given to by the young people to my question, it seemed that they spent barely any time talking on the … [Read more...] about Disconnect to Connect
A Note of Thanks!
Recently, it seems that I have been having the same conversation with different people in different contexts. They ask me about the church where I serve - how do I feel after being here for more than half my life, what is it like to pastor here, what are the members like, what kind of church is it, and other similar questions. I find my answers are always along the … [Read more...] about A Note of Thanks!