devotion – Redheadedrev

Lent 2026

Lent begins this year on February 18 and concludes with Easter Sunday, April 5. I have the honor of imposing ashes again this year at the church my family attends. I am continuing to write for my denomination this year, and first up is a devotional for Ash Wednesday. It is titled “Do You WantContinue reading “Lent 2026”

Minnesota

Much of the world has been focused on Minnesota because of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Operation Metro Surge. What gives me hope is the many ways neighbors are caring for neighbors. Food shelves are full of food and volunteers. I have heard so many beautiful stories of ways people are taking careContinue reading “Minnesota”

Christmas

The Journey of Advent ends with Christmas. We have sought hope, peace, joy, and love this Advent, and now we celebrate the birth of Jesus. So long ago Joseph and Mary traveled to the city of Bethlehem, to be registered as was required by the Emperor’s decree. Luke 2 tells us that while they wereContinue reading “Christmas”

Advent 3: JOY

In the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, we read the story of Jesus’ mother, Mary (1:26-56). Mary’s faithfulness and joy is a powerful witness. Yet, the angel’s message must have been frightening. What would it have been like to have to tell Joseph or her parents? I often wonder if she went toContinue reading “Advent 3: JOY”

Advent Week 2: PEACE

“Comfort, o comfort my people, says your God.” The Prophet Isaiah (40:1) reminds us that when we are not at peace, God provides comfort. God is always there, ready and willing, for us to turn over all our problems. However, sometimes our lack of peace stems from our hearts breaking for the many around usContinue reading “Advent Week 2: PEACE”

Advent Week 1: HOPE

Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus” meaning coming. During the season of Advent, we prepare and wait with hope to celebrate Jesus’ birth at Christmas. Advent can be a season where we open our hearts to the presence of God. As we sing in “Silent Night,” Jesus is “Son of God, Love’s pure light.”Continue reading “Advent Week 1: HOPE”

Advent Devotions

Advent runs November 30-December 24 in 2025. It is the season of preparing our hearts to once again receive the baby Jesus on Christmas. United Methodist Communications is sharing my weekly Advent devotions again this year. Included is an idea for an activity/craft each week. The first week is making an Advent wreath for theContinue reading “Advent Devotions”

Generosity

My latest devotion is available from United Methodist Communications. You can read “Respond to God’s Grace with Generosity” here. Generosity is about so much more than just money. I want to be more generous with finances, but also in my relationships. Every day is so full, that I get laser-focused on what has to beContinue reading “Generosity”

Diversity

Diversity has become a buzz word, and lately with a negative connotation. However, in his first letter to the church in Corinth, Paul writes about the importance of diversity within the church. You can read my latest article on umc.org here. 1 Corinthians 12 precedes the famous chapter on love that is often read at weddings.Continue reading “Diversity”

We Are the Church Together

My latest article on umc.org is about the ways the United Methodist Church is united in mission across our global connection. I also get to highlight the ministry in Ukraine that one of my colleagues is leading. You can check it out here. Also, thanks to my editor and former student, Laura, who always makesContinue reading “We Are the Church Together”