Jun 7, 2023 | Grace Notes, Homepage Feature, Reported in the E-Vision
by Steven Norris Over the past two weeks, I’ve suggested that there are some sayings we should avoid when speaking to a grieving family. Too often, we revert to platitudes and cliches that reinforce unhelpful ideas about God and the role of suffering. The French...
May 30, 2023 | Grace Notes, Homepage Feature, Reported in the E-Vision
by Steven Norris Last week, I suggested five statements that you should probably avoid when you find yourself in receiving line at the funeral home. I want to follow up with additional sayings to avoid that stem from bad theology — ideas about God and the...
May 24, 2023 | Grace Notes, Homepage Feature, Reported in the E-Vision
by Steven Norris The math is pretty convincing: one out of every one person will die. At some point we will all find ourselves in the receiving line at a funeral home because someone we care for has experienced loss. What do you say in those moments? How can you...
May 17, 2023 | Grace Notes, Homepage Feature, Reported in the E-Vision
by Steven Norris For years, I have been fascinated by the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as “chanoyu.” Traditionally held in a “chashitsu,” or tea house, one would find minimal furnishings inside — a few mats on the floor and small table on which to...
May 10, 2023 | Grace Notes, Homepage Feature, Reported in the E-Vision
By Steven Norris How do you define “the good life?” Poll one hundred different people and you will no doubt end up with a multitude of answers ranging from an abundance of material goods, to not having to go to work, to the blessing of friends and family. I...
May 10, 2023 | Children, Grace Notes, News, Reported in the E-Vision
On Children’s Sunday, May 7, during Celebration Worship, our children led us in worship through song and readings. This litany, in particular, reminds us to celebrate our children as they are, as God’s children.
