Posts from March 2020

“In the Eye of the Storm” You can’t talk about hard times without referencing the Bible’s Book of Job. Considered to be the oldest book of the Bible written, it addresses the enigma of suffering. Why, why me and even why not me are all questions stirred up throughout the book. Near the end of it all Job hears from God and asks him some questions. In Job 40.6 He speaks up “from the eye of the storm.” As we…

Transitions are by definition, uh, transitory. That is they take us from one place we’re accustomed to another place of potential comfort. Physical moves whether permanent or seasonal require the transition from here to there or there to hear (depending on your perspective). 🙂 The trip to the other place calls for planning, and preparation for variables and unknown possibilities. Things like the weather, highway construction or airport TSA lines, not to mention health and relationship separations add emotion to…

Therefore Peace Lutheran Church Web Site “Since We Have Been Justified” “Therefore.” It’s an adverb of transition from one point to another. Paul uses it in the book of Romans to transition from the objective fact of being justified by grace through faith to what “being justified” means in life. Our Worship @Home message is designed to bring us together in worship to discover, re-discover or be reminded that the crucifixion of Jesus had an unfathomable impact on us –…

“If you want to give God a chuckle, tell him about your future!” I first ran across this non-Biblical, but still-rings-true proverb in Minnesota when I was pastoring Zion, Hopkins. We put that phrase on our outdoor sign and received lots of interesting community feedback. The truth behind the “chuckle” is a conviction that we believe we have power to effect our future – but that’s really a selfish illusion. We have no power over our future. We can’t see…

At least for a moment…be still… I get it – that is much more easily said than done! I get it – a restlessness may pervade your spirit with concerns that grow into fears. I get it – there is no history or historical perspective on which to draw some predictions and conclusions. Still, there is need to be still! It’s in the stillness that we’re most receptive to the direction and comfort of the Holy Spirit. God promises to…

“More than conquerors” is a quote from St Paul’s phenomenal chapter 8 of Romans! “Shout for joy” is a call to worship from Psalm 100. “Hail Jesus You’re my King” is from a song entitled, “Victory Chant.” “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” is the title of an old hymn! All of the above – and more – are designed to lift our spirits from where they are to where God’s Spirit can take them (no matter the circumstances).…

It just isn’t natural. It just doesn’t feel right! Social distancing is more than an inconvenience – it’s against the nature of our created nature. We were designed; created to be together; in community. Staying 6 feet apart is not the original design…. So, watch this video as I review a number of Bible passages about God’s Presence! He reaches into our vacuums and brokenness and shares a most powerful gift – His Presence! Please draw comfort from these passages…

Sunday, March 22, is another “Worship from Home” worship experience! I will provide a Hope-Full message that is designed to provide some light for the soul and relief for the weary spirit! It will be based on Romans 15.13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy…” For messages of hope and assurance, go to our website at PeaceNaples.org and click on the “Pastor’s Message” button for a time with God’s Word and assurance of his love, grace…

We will not be meeting in the sanctuary this Sunday – in obvious response to the current pandemic. Following the lead of Collier County Schools that will close next week, Peace worship, our Early Learning Center, and all meetings and Bible studies will be suspended for next week. The Word of the Lord, however, is not, never was and never will be suspended. Follow the link below to St Paul’s imprisoned invitation to God’s surprising gifts. “An Invitation to Power, Love…