I preached this sermon today at North United Methodist Church, the place I've called my church and my job for the past nine years. This sermon is a reflection on the Parable of the Sower as well as my time in ministry with the youth, parents, volunteers and congregation of North UMC. +++ Luke 8:4-8… Continue reading Seeds, Fruit and Roots – A Sermon
Category: change
One Word Check-In
When I chose Gratitude to be my one word for this year, I really had no idea how appropriate it would be. I initially chose it because I wanted to be happier with my life and by focusing on gratitude I figured my attitude and perspective would change. I was right about that. Each morning… Continue reading One Word Check-In
However
I just read a John O’Donohue blessing called For the Time of Necessary Decision. I wish I had read it six months ago, but perhaps reading it after the fact was meant to be. Reading it in its entirety left me a little awe struck at how far I’ve come. Here’s one section: We drift… Continue reading However
Laps
For most of the country this is Memorial Day weekend. Here in Indianapolis it’s more likely to be called Race Weekend. The Indy 500 is a huge tradition – some are more invested than others. Growing up I recall the race being broadcasted on the radio. It was background noise for me. I’ve never understood… Continue reading Laps
Anyone
Yesterday I listened to the most recent episode of the Unhurried Living Podcast by Alan and Gem Fadling. This first season of the podcast is focused on themes from Alan’s newest book Unhurried Leader that comes out next month. In the latest episode Alan had a conversation with Doug Fields – a well-known leader and… Continue reading Anyone
Drained
Ever since college, I’ve tried to give blood regularly, although it doesn’t always happen regularly – I’ve gone years without donating. Something will trigger me and then I’ll find myself back in the habit. Even though I hate needles, I know the importance of giving blood and I don’t usually mind taking the time out… Continue reading Drained
Teach
The younger kids in the youth group were 2 or 3 years old when I started working at North. So, most of the youth group don’t have a lot of memories of church without me somewhere in them. Don’t get me wrong – I am not under any illusion that North won’t be North without… Continue reading Teach
Leaving
At the start of my sabbatical last fall I had a plan. (Of course, I had a plan!) I would spend the first month decompressing. The second month would be for reflection. Finally, in that third month I would make some decisions. By the end of my sabbatical I wanted to know these things: -… Continue reading Leaving
Edge
Being a youth minister for the past thirteen years, I’ve done a lot of high ropes courses. I’ve watched young people overcome their fears and achieve goals they never thought they’d reach. There’s just something about a high ropes course that brings out the cheerleader in me – well, it doesn’t take much to bring… Continue reading Edge
Knowing
Yesterday Bob Goff posted this quote and image on Instagram: This got me to thinking a little more about the reality of what Jesus experienced during those last few days. Sure, I’ve heard the story every year – I know the order, I know who did what. But today I’m thinking about him – about… Continue reading Knowing
Anne Brock 