Browsing by Rob Blezard
New Year’s Resolutions for the Christian Steward
Although there is nothing in the Bible or notable in Christian tradition about New Year’s resolutions, many good stewards take advantage of this time of year to become closer to the Lord. They may re-commit themselves to pray more, to read the Bible, or to attend church more regularly. If you are looking for some […]
Join the Hymn of All Creation
Join the hymn, yes, but also minister to God’s creation as priests, reminds Tom Mundahl in his Lectionary reflection for Dec. 28 on LutheransRestoringCreation.org. “The coming of God in Christ at Christmas changes everything.” (Photo by The Bees, used by Creative Commons license)
Bishop Eaton’s Christmas Message
In her message, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton writes, “Christmas can carry so much emotional freight. We must be merry and filled with good cheer. We are driven to get everything perfect by the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve. We are filled with wistful longing. But what are we longing for?” Click to find […]
How Churches Can Attract Younger People
It causes church people much anxiety and soul searching that Christmas brings people to church who don’t attend the rest of the year, including the desperately needed younger generation. Though churches are eager to attract a new generation, they often go about it the wrong way, says this USA Today commentator, who has suggestions for […]
Pope Francis Warns Against ‘Spiritual Alzheimer’s’
Meeting with his top leaders for the annual exchange of Christmas greetings, Pope Francis sidestepped a typical genteel and upbeat message to issue a unvarnished critique of their leadership, including a “catalog” of 15 spiritual ailments for them to be wary of. SOLI Editor’s Note: It’s the kind of message that all Christian Leaders need to hear once in a while. Be sure to click on the sidebar listing the ailments. For which of the 15 are you susceptible? (Photo © Christy Thompson – Fotolia.com)
Stewardship Lessons for Christmas
The Nativity story offers many opportunities to preach on or discuss themes of stewardship. Check them out, from the Archdiocese of St. Louis. (Photo by brockvicky, used by Creative Commons license)
Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating
We’ve all done it — we weigh ourselves in late December and discover we’ve gained more weight than we wanted. Through parties and special holiday meals, overeating is a temptation. On this page from WebMD you’ll find links to a number of articles on how to eat more healthfully this Christmas. (Photo by Kris Krug, […]
10 ‘New’ Traditions for a Holy Christmas
Our culture gives us a lot of holiday traditions around Christmas, but many of them do not bring us closer to God or the miracle of the incarnation. This writer, a pastor, suggests adopting “new traditions” that will help you and your family have a holy holiday. From Pastors. com. (Photo by Picsbyclive, used by […]
Live Abundantly Within Your Means
Today, we’re bombarded with advertising designed to convince us that we need the latest, the fastest, the biggest, and the best. No wonder many of us live with too much debt. To maintain financial priorities and live within your means, you must reconcile your needs and your wants. From LifeWay. (Photo by Katerha, used by […]
Donations are Trending Away from Church
Christians are giving away more money than before the recession. But the parachurch, not churches, is getting most of it, according to the latest reports from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) and Giving USA. This article from ChristianityToday.com gives the details. (Photo © June Reed – Fotolia.com)
