I believe in respect. Unfortunately, I don’t see much of it anymore.  American culture seems to run on disrespect.  Politicians show complete disrespect to other politicians.  Crowds at ballgames disrespect the players, the referees, the coaches, and fans of the other team. And disrespect aimed at teachers, police officers, retail...

I love Arizona. I’m not a native, but I’m close. My family moved here when I was 2.  I’ve lived in Arizona for 54 of my 59 years. And I’ve never really wanted to live anywhere else. But that doesn’t mean I love everything about Arizona. There are many things...

I follow politics rather closely, but, as a Pastor, I don’t endorse candidates from the pulpit or in my official position as Pastor.  Nevertheless, I think and pray about political and governmental issues a lot.  (And I’ve even been known to rant–regularly, actually–but only at home and with close friends.) ...

There is an interesting case before the Supreme Court right now that is of great interest to believers.  And despite what you may have heard from both sides, it’s not an easy decision for the court. The case is relatively straightforward.  A Colorado baker refused to design a cake for...

This blog was inspired by a friend and church member–and a fine human being–who is a DACA recipient. You can call them “dreamers.”  I like that. Or you can call them “DACA recipients,” though that sounds overly bureaucratic. But let’s not call them aliens, which makes them sound weird and otherworldly. And...

Earth Day (April 22) isn’t normally considered a Christian holiday. I think it should be. The Bible starts off with “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Unfortunately, the Christian world has spent way too much time and energy arguing the specifics of that creation, and too...

I am often on Facebook and Twitter, and I enjoy it.  (I also try and keep up with my kids and grandkids on Instagram and Snapchat, but I don’t post much there.)  I use social media for fun, to communicate to people important to me, to promote my faith, beliefs,...

Dear President-Elect Trump: Congratulations on winning the presidential Election! To be honest, I was among the many Americans who were frustrated with the choice between you and Clinton.  Neither one of you gave me great hope.  Nevertheless, before the election, I made some commitments to the winning candidate.  I want you to...

Dear Mr(s). President: I write this well before the election, because I don’t want you to think that this letter is overly personal.  The things that I say and the prayer that I offer applies to you whether your name is Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump. I must be honest.  I have...

I admit it.  I was getting cranky and frustrated—and maybe even a little bit angry—during this very strange presidential election.  The lies, the filth, the innuendos, and the name-calling by the candidates were deeply disturbing to me.  And the angry posts from believers (and friends) on Facebook were getting to...