At the Intersection of Theology, Nature, and the Arts
I recently learned that a church I formerly pastored has issued a new policy statement wherein the body said its unity was not based on an "adherence to a particular set of doctrinal beliefs." They've chosen, instead, to embrace "a broad diversity" of opinions on scriptural interpretation and have expunged their Statement of Beliefs from …
Continue reading "Falling Away from the Faith Once Received"
Delighted to wake this day to a request to review this book for the Africanus Journal. As must be clearly evident from many of my posts, Progressive Christianity is currently one of my greatest concerns; this topic is right up my alley as a former professor of apologetics!! How far can you wander from classic, …
The first sermon I ever preached was based on the passage in this entry. Over the years, as I've grown in my understanding of this scripture, this core issue of the faith, this key to living a life of peace and hope, I’ve added to it. This is the most recent iteration. _____ Colossians 3:12-13: …
Continue reading "Unforgiveness: A Loose Cannon Below Decks Redux"
A recent report on National Public Radio spoke about the "fight for reproductive rights." Reproductive rights are not the issue in the argument over abortion. By the time a new life has begun within a woman's womb, reproduction has already taken place. "Reproductive rights" are not the issue in the argument over abortion. By the …
Matthew 4:1-11 and 2 Timothy 4:1-5 When, at the end of 2021, I was nearing the end of a pastorate in New Hampshire, I wanted to prepare the congregation for the next chapter in their life together. On one Sunday, I stressed the need for the church to mobilize in ministries of compassion; the following …
Having just learned that my podcast, On the Road with Mac and Molly, was chosen by a London-based Magazine as one of the 20 best of 2021—alongside programs from ABC News, Oregon Public Broadcasting, and Harper's Magazine—I looked back at the original write up for the show. Here it is: In the second year of …
Yesterday was the eighth anniversary of the passing of Nelson Mandela. As remembrances came across my computer screen, I was reminded of a visit to Zimbabwe some years ago where I had the privilege of hearing him speak. Robert Mugabe was also on the platform that day and I remember being struck by the great …
Continue reading "“If I didn’t forgive them, I would never be free”"
I am often asked for advice on long-term RVing and am delighted to share what I've learned. If you prepare well, and perhaps even you don’t, life on the road can be filled with wonderful adventures and a good many misadventures! I’m a writer and my husband, who is several years my senior, was able …
Continue reading "Bugling Elk and Boot-Piercing Cacti: Life on the Road"
On the desk in my study is an Atlas Obscura calendar that captures the sensation of wanderlust in 365 days of color photographs, unique facts, and unexpected adventures. I was delighted to find today's page dedicated to the extraordinary Dog Chapel in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The structure was built by internationally-known author and folk artist …
SO grateful for our years as nomads in Nomadland!! My husband, Gene, and I found many touchpoints in this movie to bring us back to our days on the road. Like the central character, Fern, we lived in the Badlands, ate and shopped at Wall Drug, walked with bison and crocs, marveled at the mud …
DFG Hailson 