pastor || writer || speaker
Rembrandt van Rijn, The Return of the Prodigal Son, Oil on canvas; 1668. One of the strangest things about us as people is how much we want to be close to people and also how easily we run away from relationships with others. Why is it that we both want to be known but also want …
Continue reading "Returning to God :: Rembrandt van Rijn, “The Return of the Prodigal Son”"
Motion blur traffic in city "As for me, I am like a green olive treein the house of God;my trust is in the tender mercy of Godfor ever and ever." (Psalm 52:9, Coverdale) Only You do I trust, my God,to be my refuge and strength—only You.Only You do I trust, my God,to bring me comfort …
I re-read Henri Nouwen's marvelous book Life of the Beloved recently and this story stood out so powerfully that I wanted to share it with you. I hope you read it and reflect on your own blessing and Belovedness in God today: Not long ago, in my own community, I had a very personal experience …
Continue reading "Experiencing Blessing: a word from Henri Nouwen"
The Lord is gracious and compassionate,slow to anger and rich in love.The Lord is good to all;he has compassion on all he has made. (Psalm 145:8-9) In the stillness, I come to a place of quiet before You, my God. May the wonders of Your presence meet me this morning, Lord. My eyes are on …
Continue reading "What Love Is This?: a prayer reflection on Psalm 145"
You have searched me, Lord,and you know me.You know when I sit and when I rise;you perceive my thoughts from afar.You discern my going out and my lying down;you are familiar with all my ways. (Psalm 139:1-3) O my soul,know the love and the care of God. When you breathed your first breath, He heard …
Matthew Erickson 