By Cindy Koch - In a time of war it makes perfect sense. You take the resources you have available and turn them into weapons against the enemy. Fighting for survival, everything hinges on the destruction of the other. Yes, it makes perfect sense to take the good gifts of God and craft your weapon … Continue reading Weaponize the Gifts
By Paul Koch - God had delivered His people Israel from the house of slavery in Egypt. He had led them through the Red Sea on dry ground and brought them to the foot of Mt. Sinai. On the mountain Moses received from the Lord His 10 Commandments, and after some setbacks with a golden … Continue reading In the Camp
By Paul Koch- I was a Vicar at Peace Lutheran Church in Bremerton Washington 17 years ago. I remember, with astonishing clarity, driving down to church early in the morning and listening to some bewildering news on the radio. An airplane, no, make that two airplanes, had struck buildings in New York. Upon arriving at … Continue reading Running from God
By Paul Koch – A little framed picture hangs to the right of the door exiting my study which leads into the sanctuary of the church. Most people leaving through that door probably never even notice it, but I do. Though it is small, behind the glass is a simple and eloquent prayer. I’ve had … Continue reading The Unworthy Minister
By Paul Koch - I have a confession to make, I’ve never really liked the phrase “sharing Jesus.” I’m not sure why, but it has just always sounded weird to me. But I hear it all the time. I was watching the call service for the new pastors from the Seminary in St. Louis and … Continue reading Sharing Jesus
By Paul Koch – The smorgasbord that is American Christianity is a plethora of material for running jokes and cultural commentary. Not only is there a conflict between people of the Christian faith and those outside the Church, but there is also an ongoing conflict within Christianity. The Baptists are pretty sure that the Catholics are going to hell, … Continue reading Learnign to Not Love the Church
By Paul Koch - I have realized that there are many texts from the Word of God that I call my favorite. But this one from John 20 is without a doubt my all time favorite text in Scripture. Okay, it’s at least in the top five. You see, it is an honest and powerful … Continue reading A Strange Church
