Field notes on life and mission with God in post-Christendom
Here's St. Augustine on the perennial question of prayer: If God knows what we need before we ask him, what's the point of prayer? Why we should pray, when he knows what we need before we ask him, may perplex us if we do not realize that our Lord … [Continue reading] about Why pray?
These are some beautiful thoughts about the parable of the prodigal son from Peter Chrysologos, Bishop of Ravenna [450 AD]. Notice how there is no hint of shame in the way the father embraces his wayward son. "I will break away and return to my … [Continue reading] about Judging and Correcting By Embracing and Kissing
Recently I read through the Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah. I was especially struck by Ezra's repentance in chapter 9. He finds out that other Israelites have sinned. He hasn't committed this particular sin. Others have. And yet, when he … [Continue reading] about Repenting For Others
In years past, when I went on vacation, I wanted to receive some big revelation from God about my calling. I noticed others would go away on retreats and come back with the next 10 years all mapped out because God spoke to them. That sounds pretty … [Continue reading] about How God Guides Us
Imagine that you suddenly became a millionaire somehow. You've got $20 million in the bank, and you bought a big house with an abundance of unused bedrooms. Imagine further that as you are settling into your new house, you look out your window and … [Continue reading] about The Immorality of Hoarding Wealth