I ran across this prayer, posted on Bishop Dan Edwards' Facebook page. It's remarkable, I think...a blending of what he describes as Carmelite and Theravadan. In his case, he shares how he uses this prayer to help him pray for those who are antagonistic toward him.  I don' t know about the language of "enemies." ... Continue Reading →

So, the KKK is marching in my hometown tomorrow near Monticello, Arkansas. I am ashamed....horrified...angry....disappointed....and still hopeful. (This is me working through my sermon for tomorrow by the way)... I will remain hopeful, because on days like this, our lectionary holds up this profound image of a little boy sharing his loaves and fishes. That... Continue Reading →

In this morning's propers, I was looking at this piece of Psalm 28 1  O LORD, I call to you; my Rock, do not be deaf to my cry; * lest, if you do not hear me, I become like those who go down to the Pit. 2  Hear the voice of my prayer when... Continue Reading →

Today is the Feast of St. Benedict of Nursia, a red-letter day in my practice giving that my first parish cure was at St. Benedict's in Smyrna.  Benedict had an undeniable influence on Western Christianity, with the establishment and formalization of monasteries throughout the world.  These centers of community grew and evolved--and reformed--throughout the centuries. ... Continue Reading →

Friends, These have been momentous days for us all, these past three weeks.  Days of an increased awareness of the dangers of climate change (an the pope's invitation to a reorientation), of the need for equal housing, of the persistence of racism (and the possibility of hope), of the availability of insurance (and a needed... Continue Reading →

Here's a snippet of the Gospel appointed for today: Luke 24:36-53 (NRSV) While they were talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” They were startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do... Continue Reading →

This morning, I find myself reflecting again on Psalm 1, on the Feast of Jan Hus, martyr in 1415. Psalm 1 1  Happy are they who have not walked in the counsel of the wicked, * nor lingered in the way of sinners, nor sat in the seats of the scornful! 2  Their delight is... Continue Reading →

Today is the Feast of Harriet Beecher Stowe, that wonderfully author whose writings inspired so many to stand up against slavery.  She used her voice, through her pen, to help the eyes of so many open to the struggles of people of color in our nation.  For her, I am thankful. Here's a portion of... Continue Reading →

Today is the Feasts of Sts. Peter and Paul.  It is also my ordination anniversary.  I begin my eighth year as a priest in The Episcopal Church....what an amazing adventure! Here is a piece of Psalm 66, appointed for today: Psalm 66 1  Be joyful in God, all you lands; * sing the glory of... Continue Reading →

Then in their trouble they cried to the LORD, * who delivered them from their distress. God stilled the storm to a whisper * and quieted the waves of the sea. Then were they glad because of the calm, * and God brought them to the harbor they were bound for. Let them give thanks... Continue Reading →