In the midst of Sunday morning final worship rehearsal, I picked up my phone to text a lifelong, cherished friend to let her know I was spending the morning praying in song for her, her husband, and their family. The song above is one of the songs we sang that morning. It is the song that, during rehearsal earlier in the week, brought tears to my eyes as I prayed for these friends who were in a time of waiting, knowing what was to come. It is the song we practiced right befor

At my church, worship band rehearsal begins with a devotion or exercise of some kind, followed by a time of sharing prayer requests/joys, and a time of prayer before we jump into the music. Since I'm singing this coming Sunday, I was at rehearsal on Wednesday night (which, on a side note, is why you did not get this then). Per usual, I shared an update; not per usual, it was a praise. It felt really good to share a praise. Then someone asked me to share a follow-up on previou

When a person experiences the death of a significant person in his/her life, an evaluation of faith and belief inevitably follows. For that reason, as a grief counselor my first session with a client includes a spiritual assessment. Because I don't want anyone to be caught off guard, I also introduce the assessment by explaining the reason for it; then I leave the conversation open ended and see what comes next. I've heard a lot ranging the gamut of emotions and beliefs. I've

In my office of President within Holland Classis RCA, I have the privilege of presiding at many services of ordination. For readers who are unaware, the service of ordination is the worship service during which a seminary graduate transitions from student and candidate to full-fledged Minister of Word and Sacrament. If you ever have the opportunity to attend such a service, I highly recommend it; they are truly beautiful and holy. This past Sunday was no exception. On that da

Last week I was given the wonderful opportunity to be in Scottsdale, Arizona for vacation. I spent time hiking, lying by the pool, and otherwise relaxing with family; on top of all that, I had amazing bonding time with my mom. So, for those of you who noticed you didn't get a Wednesday Words blog last week, my apologies; but, I had different priorities and did what I needed to do! Now I'm back. Suffice it to say my 're-entry' to daily living was not pleasant. It was so unplea

There is one word that has the power to shut down conversations or breed arguments, to lift people up or push them down, to bring unity or division. One word that has become so distorted since it came into use that those who birthed it would no longer recognize it. One word that should convey truth, grace and hope, yet is now understood to mean hypocrisy, judgment, and oppression. Christian. Yes, Christian. Though I ascribe to the teachings of Jesus and try every day to be gu