Author Archives: Country Preacher

The original collect for Lent 3 is “We beseech thee, almighty God, to respect the prayers of the humble, and stretch out the right hand of Thy Majesty for our defense…” It’s a nice little collect, and matches well the … Continue reading →

I’ve spent time the last couple of years looking at the Collect for the day, comparing it to historic translations, and looking at the theology contained in them. This week we have an odd thing. The historic collect is abandoned … Continue reading →

In the early life of the synod, she was dynamic, nimble, ready to tackle challenges and make necessary changes. District realignments were frequent. Universities and seminaries were founded, moved, consolidated, re-separated, moved again, etc. Facilities were meant to facilitate. At … Continue reading →

In my new (volunteer) position as publisher for Steadfast Press, I find myself adjusting to my own rules. I’m editing a forthcoming book (stay tuned, major announcement coming!) Normally, I start editing, go through the entire book, then review edits. … Continue reading →

I always mean to post sermons. But the week slips away, and often it doesn’t get done. This week I remembered. Sermon for Septuagesima, for those who couldn’t make it to church this Sunday. Mercy is love in action. Mercy … Continue reading →

I just returned from a mini-cation. We dashed cross-country to pick up a child, and then drive back. No vacation ever goes to plan, but this one seemed almost… doomed. On the way out, roads were so bad that I … Continue reading →

Twice upon a time, my wife served as editor of a newspaper. She is no longer in the position. People shoot the messenger. Publication day was Wednesday. Every Thursday she got calls complaining about the news. Her job was supposed to … Continue reading →

I enjoy scrolling through Twitter, because it’s a strange place, full of odd things. Yesterday, a woman was bragging about her scientific research, which, she claimed, proved conclusively that, if a guy is dead for three days, he can not … Continue reading →

Most of you have probably already seen the news, but I’ve been named the new Publisher of Steadfast Press. It’s not a new job, I’m still pastor of my parishes. It’s a volunteer thing, and it’s nothing more than I’ve … Continue reading →

This past week was disappointing for those who thought Republican gains in the House would slow the tide of the culture-of-death in our nation. 12 Republican Senators announced support for the Orwellian Respect for Marriage Act, which will degrade marriage … Continue reading →