It’s hard to believe that December 1st has arrived.  It’s hard to believe that our youngest daughter, Mia, turns 18 today too.  The first day of the last month of 2022 causes me to stop, reflect, ponder, offer thanks, and dream.   The season of Advent is one of my favorite seasons in the church.  I love the images of … More Somethin’ Bigger than Me

Yesterday was a sad day for music.  The country music legend, Loretta Lynn, passed away at the age of 90.  Talk about somebody who dared to hope!  She was born into poverty in rural Kentucky.  She wrote and sang songs about growing up in Appalachia.  One of the songs of hope that I have been listening to as I walk … More Dare to Hope

The most iconic, popular, and, perhaps, misunderstood song was written in 1974.  No matter the version you have downloaded by Whitney Houston or Dolly Parton, the song, “I Will Always Love You”, is a song of forgiveness and letting go.  The song was Dolly’s way of expressing to Porter Waggoner that it was time for her to embark … More I Will Always Love You

I’ve said before, I’ll say it again, one of the great summer movies, “Top Gun: Maverick”.  One of the quotes that I love, “Don’t think, just do!”  I have put this quote into action on the golf course.  I have also returned to the method of writing my sermons by hand on my trusty legal pad.  As I prepared … More Recipe for Life

As we say goodbye to July, August brings an end to the summer, the beginning of school, and yes, Pastor Tom will soon return from sabbatical.  I have learned so much about myself during this season of rest, renewal, and remembering.  During these final 30 days, I have been asking myself, “Where Have You seen God?  What is … More Better Get to Livin’/Here I Am

“Even though I Walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.”   Psalm 23:4 Psalm 23 has always been one of my favorite scriptures.  I often refer to it as the Psalm of Life.  Little did I know that this beloved psalm would provide comfort, solace, and healing daily during my … More Walking is Good for the Soul

The last 52 days have been life-changing, to say the least.  From the very beginning, I sought to rest, discover spiritual renewal, and a season of remembering during my sabbatical.  Up to this point, I give myself a strong B in the first two areas.  The greatest struggle I’ve had is remembering my calling.  It was hard for me … More Remembering…….

Over the last few days, I have been more intentional in my encounters with God.  Early this morning, I was greeted by the sounds of cicadas.  I could not see them, but their sound would out blast an alarm clock.  As the sunlight broke through the trees, I could hear birds singing, and even hear a splash in … More Encounters With God

As I approach day 42 of my sabbatical, i have learned the importance of retuning to the familiar, hoeing weeds from my flowerbeds. This activity takes focus, persistence. I really thought at age 56 I would be done hoeing weeds. Little did I know, that this simple activity would not only replenish my weary soul, … More Return to the Familiar

Anyone that knows me, knows that I am the biggest Dolly Parton fan ever!!!!  Her music, her style, and the way she continues to give generously to make the world a better place are just a few reasons that I’m a Dolly fan.  One of my all-time favorite sermon series I preached was, “The Gospel According to … More Light of a Clear Blue Morning