Gratitude Is the Real Gift

As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, I’m not only thinking of the importance of gratitude for our many gifts, but also of the gift of gratitude itself. It is true that we are blessed beyond measure. God really has done “far more abundantly than all...

“National Treasure”

“National Treasure” tells the story of Benjamin Franklin Gates (Nicholas Cage), a self-proclaimed “treasure protector” in search of the treasure of the Knights Templar. He doesn’t want the treasure for himself, but to keep it from falling...

Moderate Pulpits: The Next Target

The interim period is always a vulnerable time for a Baptist church, but it may now be more vulnerable than ever, especially if one of the most vocal leaders of the fundamentalist movement has his way. “May God lead many of you to some of these moderate churches...

Christmas Hymns and Social Justice

During Advent and Christmas our churches seem to sing more heartily as hymns remind us of the promise and joy of the birth of Jesus. There is a wealth of wonderful texts and tunes for the season which bring “tidings of comfort and joy.” The enthusiasm for...

God Save America

During a recent road trip a billboard caught my attention. The sign featured a billowing American flag as background with the words “God Save America” blazing across the red, white and blue. For some reason the sign bothered me, though at first I did not...

More Than Meets the Eye

In an old episode of “The Cosby Show,” Cliff (Bill Cosby) agrees that son Theo can tag along when he goes to purchase a new family car. Before they go, Cliff makes a point to change clothes. “You’re wearing that?” Theo asks him....