Pastor Ken Wilson from the Ann Arbor, Michigan, Vineyard gets it ...       How did we, the friends of the friend of sinners get to this place?  Jesus was known as the friend of sinners.  He took a lot of guff for being the friend of sinners.  These “sinners” were a social class, not simply a theologicalContinue reading "We need to be more gentle"

There are several benefits to being kind to others ...1.  Those who are kind exemplify the fruit of the Spirit.2.  Helping others makes you feel advantaged (and thankful) by comparision.3. When you are kind to others it impacts your self-perception.  You may begin viewing yourself as an altruistic and compassionate person.4. Showing kindness seems toContinue reading "Being kind to others"

Eli was a priest, as were his sons.  This is the long and short of Eli's sons from I Samuel chapter two..."Eli's sons were wicked men; they had no regard for the Lord.""This sin of the young men was very great in the Lord's sight, for they were treating the Lord's offering with contempt.""Now Eli,Continue reading "Contempt for what the Lord has done…"

My dad's favorite verse was read at his funeral in May."I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."  Philippians 4:13He lived by it daily.  Dad was a true man of peace, gaining his strength from Christ and treating everyone he met with kindness and gentleness.  Peace, kindness, gentleness ... all fruits of the Spirit. MyContinue reading "Favorite Verses"

So yesterday afternoon I was preaching my heart out at the jail, and, as I often do, trying to help the men get in touch with their emotions.  The emotional health of the groups as a whole is very, very low.The one emotion they all can name is ... ANGER.  We discussed this and itContinue reading "Emotions at the County Jail"

This afternoon I officiate at my umpteenth wedding.  Two things I always like to do ...1.  Ask the bride's father, "Who presents this woman to be married to this man?"  instead of "Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"  It's more elegant, in my opinion.2.  When I make the presentation at theContinue reading "Another Saturday wedding"

1.  In II Corinthians 12 Paul talks about an incredible revelation he received from God. "I was caught up into the third heaven fourteen years ago.  Whether my body was there or just my spirit, I don't know; only God knows.  But I do know that I was caught up into paradise and heard thingsContinue reading "Boasting about the right things…"

The devil said to Jesus, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread."Perform, Jesus, perform.  He had fasted for 40 days.  He was hungry, famished.  And besides, what contribution had he made to the world, anyway?  It was about time for him to step up to the plate, don't youContinue reading "Perform, son, perform!"