Chaplainmike

Advent III Sermon: “Blessed Are You Who Bear the Light”

John 1:6-8, 19-28 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. This is the testimony given by John when the JewsContinue reading “Advent III Sermon: “Blessed Are You Who Bear the Light””

Advent III: Presence — The One Necessary Thing

Note from CM: During Advent, I have asked some of our wonderful iMonk writers to share meditations on seasonal themes each week. I have really missed hearing from our friend Lisa Dye, and I’m so grateful she was willing to send us this contribution for the third Sunday in Advent. In fact, I am gratefulContinue reading “Advent III: Presence — The One Necessary Thing”

The Saturday Monks Brunch: December 16, 2017

It’s almost Christmas and perhaps you have started the feasting already. Well, for heaven’s sake, don’t stop now! Join us for our weekly Monks Brunch! Welcome! • • • BYE BYE NET NEUTRALITY One of the big news stories of the week was when the FCC voted on Thursday to repeal Obama-era internet neutrality rules.Continue reading “The Saturday Monks Brunch: December 16, 2017”

The Evangelical Dilemma

The Evangelical Dilemma I don’t think Christianity is about converting people. • Michael Spencer, Wretched Urgency • • • I once had a Jewish patient, non-observant, who was one of the most thoughtful, delightful people I’ve met. My ministry to him was the same as it is to all my patients – to provide pastoralContinue reading “The Evangelical Dilemma”

Seeing God at Work

Note from CM: This is an adaptation of a funeral sermon I gave this week. The theme was designed to represent both the character of the deceased and those who cared for her in her final season of life. I commended them as people who consistently displayed down-to-earth, practical, faithful, and genuine love. • •Continue reading “Seeing God at Work”

Merton on Advent: Christ in our world as it is

Note from CM: This past Sunday was recognized in many Anglican churches as the Feast of Thomas Merton. Today we present an excerpt from something he wrote about the season of Advent. • • • Merton on Advent Christ in our world as it is St Gregory the Great said that all Christians shouldContinue reading “Merton on Advent: Christ in our world as it is”

Pete Enns: Christmas in “Christian America” and the Old Testament

Note from CM: Now here is an eye-opening post. I guarantee you that the thoughts Pete Enns shares here will not have crossed the minds of many evangelical Christians or to Christians of other brands who emphasize strict observance and piety. In my view it serves as is yet another example of how separated theContinue reading “Pete Enns: Christmas in “Christian America” and the Old Testament”

Advent II Sermon: An Uncomfortable Awakening (+ a bonus song)

Mark 1:1-8 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his pathsContinue reading “Advent II Sermon: An Uncomfortable Awakening (+ a bonus song)”

Advent: A Reminder To Wait for the God Who Takes His Time

Note from CM: During Advent, I have asked some of our wonderful iMonk writers to share meditations on seasonal themes each week. On the second Sunday, we welcome our friend Randy Thompson to contribute his perspectives on Advent. I am grateful for each of these friends and gifted people, and know that what they shareContinue reading “Advent: A Reminder To Wait for the God Who Takes His Time”

The Saturday Monks Brunch: December 9, 2017

Welcome to the refectory, iMonks! Time for another edition of our Saturday Brunch. We are in the Advent season and just marked St. Nicholas Day on Dec. 6. But beware! There are many imposters out there — • • • THE POPE WANTS TO CHANGE THE LORD’S PRAYER? Andrew Perriman reports that the Pope hasContinue reading “The Saturday Monks Brunch: December 9, 2017”