We explore the prophecy of Micah in Matthew’s birth narrative and ask the question, “Who is this Jesus?”

We explore the passage from Jesus’ first sermon.

Philippians 3:7-11 Advent, Day 12 “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

Isaiah 4:2-6 Advent, Day 10 “Then the Lord will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over everything the glory will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.” I’ve never thought about the glory of God being a shelter and a refuge.

Psalm 27 Advent, Day 9 ”…even then I will be confident.” Psalm 27 was one of the readings today and it has this little line, “even the I will be confident.” I am thinking a lot about what it means to be confident right now for a series of talks that I will be giving in March, so of course this popped off the page. The Psalm opens with a declaration of the identity of who God is for the psalmist.

We take a look at Isaiah 40 in light of Advent

Hosea 6:1-6 Advent, Day 5 “Your love is like the morning mist, like the early dew that disappears.” This is one of those passages that grabs me consistently in so many different ways. I read it and sit, almost stunned by its beauty and its challenge to my soul. This morning the line quoted above was like a 2x4 between the eyes. How often is this true of me regarding God?

Luke 21:34-38 Advent, Day 4 ““Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.” I’ve been meditating on today’s passage for a few hours now and something has clicked in my heart as I have pondered on it. A number of years ago God broke me of my legalism about all sorts of things.

Micah 4:6-13 Advent, Day 3 In that day,” declares the LORD, “I will gather the lame; I will assemble the exiles and those I have brought to grief. I will make the lame my remnant, those driven away a strong nation.” This verse is fascinating to me. Honestly, it challenges me and at the same time encourages me. I am astounded by the God that self-identifies as the one who brought people to grief.

Micah 4:1-5 Advent, Day 2 They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore. As we fully enter into the Advent season, I am looking forward to reading and meditating on the prophets. Each year most of the readings come from them during this season. Advent is a time of preparation and fasting and waiting and hoping.

We put the wraps on the Book of Acts!

Psalm 80:1-19 “Restore us, LORD God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved.” This repeated line in Psalm 80 rings out to me today. This psalm opens by crying out for help and as the cry continues there seems to be a recognition that the people deserved a rebuke from God. The first time this line is uttered it is in reference to a perceived persecution but then the second time it is in light of the recognition of rebuke.

2 Timothy 2:19-26 “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” Do you know how to get something to go “viral” on the internet? Make a foolish and stupid argument. It’s easy. I’ve had a few. Do you know what happens after a time though? Your soul begins to wither. You become cynical and jaded. Your heart hardens. Happiness is found in other people’s distress and anger.

How does Paul persevere through the storm?

Romans 2:1-11 (The Message) “Those people are on a dark spiral downward. But if you think that leaves you on the high ground where you can point your finger at others, think again. Every time you criticize someone, you condemn yourself. It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors. But God isn’t so easily diverted. He sees right through all such smoke screens and holds you to what you’ve done.

Paul stands before Festus and Agrippa

God-washed power pollutes everything it touches but there is hope

Over the last year I’ve read three books that have caused me significant pause.

The first was, A Church Called Tov by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer. The second was, Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez. The third was, The Flag and the Cross by Phillip Gorski and Samuel Perry.

God-washed power pollutes everything it touches but there is hope Over the last year I’ve read three books that have caused me significant pause. The first was, A Church Called Tov by Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer. The second was, Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez. The third was, The Flag and the Cross by Phillip Gorski and Samuel Perry. All three of these books evaluate the state of the American Evangelical church from slightly different perspectives.

Judge 2:6-15 “After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.” There may be no more enduring meme than the angry old guy yelling, “Get off my lawn!” It seems that every generation feels like the “youth” are terrible and only getting worse. They look at the world and say, “These darn kids are hopeless.

Jeremiah 31:31-34 “I will be their God, and they will be my people.” Self-centeredness has been on my mind lately due to the readings that have I been meditating on this week. As I come to this little passage where God unveils the next development in God’s covenantal relationship with God’s people, I am struck by the communal aspect of it. In American Christianity we have often been enamored with the individual.

Nehemiah 8:1-12 “Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.” Nehemiah is one of those books in the Bible that get used for “leadership” retreats and the like. It always amazes me how we can take these ancient texts and make them fit into whatever we want them to fit.

Psalm 78 “They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved.” This psalm is one that constantly grabs my attention. It does so on multiple levels. Today, as I sit here meditating on it verse 18 almost levitated off the page. It wasn’t the putting God to the test bit that jumps out. It is the “demanding the food they craved,” bit. I am such a selfish and self-centered person.

We delve into Acts 24 and Paul before Felix.

Psalm 78:1-8, The Message “We’re not keeping this to ourselves, we’re passing it along to the next generation— GOD’s fame and fortune, the marvelous things he has done.“ This theme of passing things along to the next generation has been running through a lot of my reading lately. I wrote about it a bit on November 6 and the need to be intentional with relationships. Today, I’m struck by this idea of passing along the stories of “the marvelous things he has done.

What if meditation was the key to reading the Bible?

I was in high school and attending something called a Summer Institute at Eastern Michigan University. Rising high school seniors could attend the institute in a number of disciplines. I attended this two week experience for music. It was an amazing couple of weeks and I met some really fun people.

What if meditation was the key to reading the Bible? I was in high school and attending something called a Summer Institute at Eastern Michigan University. Rising high school seniors could attend the institute in a number of disciplines. I attended this two week experience for music. It was an amazing couple of weeks and I met some really fun people. It was at this Summer Institute that I was first exposed to meditation.

Psalm 70 “Let those on the hunt for you sing and celebrate.” Throughout my life of faith the hardest thing for me has always been the reality that I can not experience God with my senses. You would think that this would create in me a lack of belief, yet it has not. Why? Because I think I see all around me the effects of God. I guess it’s like that truism, “I can’t see the wind but I can feel it’s effect.

Matthew 15:1-9 “Why do you use your rules to play fast and loose with God’s commands?” I am sure that someone with religious authority would never, and I mean never, create rules to “play and fast loose with God’s commands.” Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but this is happens all the time. If I’m really honest with myself I know that I have done this. I have used my authority as a religious leader to make rules so as to get people to do what I want them to do or to manipulate a situation for my benefit.

Psalm 128 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him. I don’t like the word, “obedience.” It makes me feel like God is some sort of task master. I do like the word, “blessed.” I like the idea that God is doing something special for me. These double feelings are ones that I’m guessing I’m not alone in having. If we are really honest with ourselves we prefer “blessed” over “obedience.

Joshua 4:1-24 And then he told the People of Israel, “In the days to come, when your children ask their fathers, ‘What are these stones doing here?’ tell your children this: ‘Israel crossed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ Maybe it is because I just spent significant time with my daughter at her college campus; perhaps it’s seeing the little ones running around at missional community; but this story from Joshua 4 hit me particularly hard today.

Romans 2:17-29 “You can get by with almost anything if you front it with eloquent talk about God and his law.” This passage in Romans is one that I think about often. I have come to the conclusion that for those of us Christians in the United States, particularly, should likely find our parallels with the Jewish people that Paul addresses more so than the Gentiles. Why? Because we are the people who have largely grown up with the Bible and religion and God-talk.

Entering into silence can spiritually form us

There’s only a few sermons that I’ve heard that I remember. As I write that I want to make sure you understand what I’m not saying, I’m not saying that sermons are unimportant. I think they are very important. The sermons I remember are likely not sermons that someone else remembers. They are moments in time that God uses in the lives of people.

There was one sermon in particular that my friend, Doug, gave a number of years ago. He was talking about how noisy the world is and how quiet God’s voice can be. All during the message he had an iPod playing very quietly and then at the end he had us all get quiet and all of a sudden you could hear the music.

This shook me.

Entering into silence can spiritually form us There’s only a few sermons that I’ve heard that I remember. As I write that I want to make sure you understand what I’m not saying, I’m not saying that sermons are unimportant. I think they are very important. The sermons I remember are likely not sermons that someone else remembers. They are moments in time that God uses in the lives of people.

Psalm 34:1-10, The Message “Look at him; give him your warmest smile. Never hide your feelings from him. When I was desperate, I called out, and GOD got me out of a tight spot.” When I’m going through something heavy or hard I often think, “Why am I feeling this way? Compared to what so many others are going through this is nothing.” Often, when I feel like this, I will not pray because I don’t want to burden God or in some sense I think that these feelings are not worthy to be brought to God.

James 2:14-18 “Isn’t it obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense?” I have a friend whose favorite saying is, “acta non verba,” this translates to “actions not words.” He’s one of those people who will do anything for you. His actions clearly demonstrate that the words he uses have meaning. Many of us are good talkers. We know the right things to say. But what about our actions? How often do you promise to do something but then don’t follow through?

Psalm 119:41-48 “Let your love, God, shape my life with salvation, exactly as you promised…” Last night we were talking about Paul’s call to go to Jerusalem and how he understood his obedience to that call would result in seeing God work. One of the things that came out of conversation was this desire that we would have as clear a call as Paul did. How nice would it be to really know what our calling is?

What happens when Paul shows up in Jerusalem?

John 5:39-47 “You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me! And here I am, standing right before you, and you aren’t willing to receive from me the life you say you want.” As I continue to read and study the Bible I am more convinced than ever that much of what Jesus said to the religious leaders of his day are the things that I need to hear.

Psalm 90:1-6 “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.” This beautiful line is from Psalm 90:1. I grabbed my attention and I keep thinking about it. This concept of God being our dwelling place. I too often think about God as someone far off or disconnected. Yet, here the Psalmist calls me to consider the reality that it is in God where we will dwell. The dwelling place in the ancient world was important because it provided protection and security.

Prayer is something so difficult for me to get my mind around. As I think about praying it raises so many, many questions. If God is sovereign why pray? Why doesn’t God answer my prayers? Why don’t I hear God when I pray? What value is there to praying? Why did that person get healed and that one didn’t? Why did that prayer have “results” and that one didn’t? Does prayer do anything?

Prayer is something so difficult for me to get my mind around. As I think about praying it raises so many, many questions.

If God is sovereign why pray? Why doesn’t God answer my prayers? Why don’t I hear God when I pray? What value is there to praying? Why did that person get healed and that one didn’t? Why did that prayer have “results” and that one didn’t? Does prayer do anything?

And so many, many more.

I often think of prayer in the context of utility. Quite simply, “does it work?”

Jeremiah 3 “I’m committed in love to you.” I’m really grateful that my kids and I have never had a falling out. I can’t really imagine the pain that would cause. Being estranged from my children is probably my greatest fear. I don’t even want to think about it. As a pastor, I have spent a lot of time talking through things with people who are estranged from their children or parents.

Jeremiah 2:29-37 “Day after day after day they never give me a thought.” Typically when our family starts out on a road trip we say a prayer. We pray that God would get us to where we are going safely. We genuinely pray. We are earnest. There is a desire on our part to entrust the drive to God and we want to arrive safely. As far as I can tell God has answered every one of these prayers by getting us to and fro safely.

Jeremiah 2:20-28 “How do you account for what is written in the desert dust…” I had a dentist appointment yesterday. I despise going to the dentist. Every time they take my blood pressure and every time it’s just above normal. They always ask if that’s normal. My response, “only when I’m here.” As a child my experience with the dentist was not very good. I suppose that’s true of just about every Gen X kid.

Jeremiah 2:4-19 “But my people have traded my Glory for empty god-dreams and silly god-schemes.” It was the late nineties and I was working hard at raising support to join the staff of a campus ministry. This particular man that I was connecting with took me to a gathering of people from his church to introduce me to them. As we were driving he was explaining to me that the day of small churches was over.

We explore what happens when you follow your calling.

Jeremiah 2:1-3 “I remember your youthful loyalty, our love as newlyweds.” We road trip pretty much everywhere. Mostly because we like having our car available to us wherever it is we go. But, also because we are pretty cheap and renting a car is ridiculously expensive. There is a pattern to our long road trips. We begin with great enthusiasm. There are abundant snacks, everyone is fresh, and everyone is excited to get to where we are going.

Jeremiah 1:11-19 “And God said, ‘Good eyes! I’m sticking with you…'” This passage is not what I would call comforting. God is telling Jeremiah what his message is going to be and that he needs to stand firm in speaking this message. The message is going to be hard. This is part of the pulling up and tearing down that was described to him earlier in his conversation with God.

A simple practice to help you grow in your faith.

When you open the Bible do you feel intimidated? I know I do.

You read that right, the professional Christian with a graduate degree that included the study of both Hebrew and Greek is intimidated by the Bible.

How can that be?

A simple practice to help you grow in your faith. When you open the Bible do you feel intimidated? I know I do. You read that right, the professional Christian with a graduate degree that included the study of both Hebrew and Greek is intimidated by the Bible. How can that be? It’s simple really. I have seen the Bible used to cause great harm. I am sure that in my years of ministry that I have caused great harm with my interpretations of the Bible.

Jeremiah 1:1-10 “Your job is to pull up and tear down, take apart and demolish, and then start over, building and planting.” Jeremiah was given a task that nobody wanted. He was called to speak to the people and let them know about the judgment that was coming. There is no wonder that he is known as the weeping prophet. I look around our day and age and see a lot of would-be Jeremiahs.

Typically the Knee Jerk Devotional is going to be short. There will be a post with an accompanying 3-5 minute podcast episode. But, to get things started, I thought I’d drop my most recent sermon from Acts 20. — Discuss… — If you made it this far, thank you for reading! If you found this helpful, insightful, interesting, or even just kind of average, would you please share it with your social feed?

We explore Paul’s long goodbye to the Ephesian Elders.

As I see friends who haven’t seen me in a while they are effusive in their praise of physical fitness. Over the last year, my body has transformed. What they can’t see is the transformation that has taken place in my heart, mind, and soul. Those changes are of course nearly impossible to simply see. As important as the physical fitness has been, it’s these other changes that are more important.

What if we valued perseverance over being perfect? Sophia was walking through the forest with her friend Avil. As they were walking and talking she stubbed her toe on a root that had broken through the path. She stumbled and exclaimed her shock and surprise. She regained her footing and they continued walking. A little bit later, Avil stubbed his toe as well. He cried out and then found another root and stubbed his other toe.

What do we do when the goal is unseen? It was Thanksgiving and we were heading to my brother Jay’s home outside Baltimore, Maryland. We were excited to spend time with his family and celebrate together. As we drove the weather grew worse and worse. The snow and sleet were becoming overwhelming. Cars were pulling off and sliding off the road at an alarming rate. My hands gripped the steering wheel tighter than I knew I could.

We aren’t made to walk the path alone. I began my journey toward physical fitness with a commitment to walk fifteen minutes per day. My thinking was that I could do anything for fifteen minutes. I was right. Rarely did I walk for less than twenty minutes. Almost always, I walked at least thirty. I had, in my excitement over such a plan, decided to invite some close friends to hold me accountable.

Answering one question can start the journey. I recently shared a before and after picture one year apart on my social feeds. It sparked congratulations and a lot of kind words. Over the last eighteen months I have lost over 100 lbs. My entire body has changed. I see old pictures and it doesn’t even seem like I’m the same person. Do you want to know something interesting? When I look in the mirror I don’t really see much change at all.

A couple of years ago I read a book called Atomic Habits by James Clear. He tells the story of a friend who went on a weight loss journey. To begin this journey his friend started a habit of going to the gym. At this point you might be thinking, “Well, of course he did.” But here’s the kicker, he never went in. Every day he drove to the gym and parked in the parking lot.

The Red Wings start tonight and I am entirely too hopeful, too excited, and too lathered up in the Stevie Y butter.

#Wordle 845 4/6* ⬛⬛⬛⬛🟨 ⬛🟨⬛🟨⬛ ⬛🟨⬛🟩⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 I tied the Old Gal today. I really need to get out of the 4 guesses territory to have a shot.

Good morning! May you press on #today with the hope of rest on your horizon.

As I see friends who haven’t seen me in a while they are effusive in their praise of physical fitness. Over the last year, my body has transformed. What they can’t see is the transformation that has taken place in my heart, mind, and soul. Those changes are of course nearly impossible to simply see. As important as the physical fitness has been, it’s these other changes that are more important.

As I see friends who haven’t seen me in a while they are effusive in their praise of physical fitness. Over the last year, my body has transformed. What they can’t see is the transformation that has taken place in my heart, mind, and soul. Those changes are of course nearly impossible to simply see. As important as the physical fitness has been, it’s these other changes that are more important.

#Wordle 844 5/6* ⬛⬛🟩🟩⬛ ⬛⬛🟩🟩🟩 ⬛⬛🟩🟩🟩 🟩⬛🟩🟩🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Welp, a five. The Old Gal won today. She is merciless!

Good morning! May you have a sense of joy in your work #today.

How are you able to identify meaning and purpose in your day to day life? I’ve been noticing that, for me, it comes from the little moments when my kids text me something mundane that they know will make me smile. Odd isn’t it? When I was on my 20s I was captured by the, “Don’t waste your life!” ideal of the evangelical Christian subculture. The thought that small, regular, mundane little things would or could provide meaning and purpose simply seemed ridiculous at the time.

#Wordle 843 4/6* 🟨⬛🟨🟨⬛ 🟩⬛🟩🟩⬛ 🟩🟨🟩🟩🟨 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 I am confident the Old Gal will win today. 😅

Good morning! May you glimpse your purpose knowing you matter #today.

I need to jump on the next @challenge from the Micro.Blog fam

I actually didn’t mess up the recording this Sunday. So, here’s this past Sunday sermon in all its glory. Acts 19:21-41// Golden Calves and Sacred Cows

We explore together the issues that take place when the gospel begins to touch on our golden calves and sacred cows.

#Wordle 842 3/6* ⬛⬛🟩⬛🟨 ⬛🟨🟩⬛⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Tied the Old Gal today!

Good Monday morning! May your week be filled with joyful adventures.

The Lions just put up a college score. Love to see it!

#Wordle 841 4/6* ⬛⬛⬛🟨⬛ ⬛⬛🟩🟨⬛ 🟩🟨🟩⬛⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 The Old Gal beat me again today!

Good morning! May you create community #today!

#Wordle 840 3/6* ⬛🟨⬛⬛⬛ 🟨⬛🟩⬛⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 The Old Gal got it in 4. Winner, winner!

Good morning! May you do something today that simply brings you joy.

I’m so grateful for good friends.

A little college baseball on a brillaint Friday afternoon? Yes, please!

Gym thought…

#Wordle 839 3/6* 🟩⬛⬛⬛⬛ 🟩⬛⬛⬛🟨 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Better showing today! Let’s see if the Old Gal can beat this score.

Good morning! We made it to Friday, persevere, press on, and choose joy #today!

I just upgraded to Mac OS Sonoma and it sure is pretty!

I love this! Of all the things which wisdom provides to make us entirely happy, much the greatest is the possession of friendship. — Epicurus Hourly Quotes ✅ https://mastodon.social/@HourlyQuotes/111183123524106323

I love the connections that I get to make in third spaces. It takes time but it is so worth it.

#Wordle 838 6/6* 🟨⬛🟨🟨⬛ ⬛🟩🟩🟩🟩 ⬛🟩🟩🟩🟩 ⬛🟩🟩🟩🟩 ⬛🟩🟩🟩🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Oh good grief. This was silly. The Old Gal will definitely beat this number.

Good morning! May you create joy #today in the midst of whatever it is you are pursuing.

Hung out on the lake with the boys this afternoon to end the summer. It was perfect!

It was Thanksgiving and we were heading to my brother Jay’s home outside Baltimore, Maryland. As we drove the weather grew worse and worse. This journey was not going well. Read the rest.

What do we do when the goal is unseen? It was Thanksgiving and we were heading to my brother Jay’s home outside Baltimore, Maryland. We were excited to spend time with his family and celebrate together. As we drove the weather grew worse and worse. The snow and sleet were becoming overwhelming. Cars were pulling off and sliding off the road at an alarming rate. My hands gripped the steering wheel tighter than I knew I could.

What do we do when the goal is unseen? It was Thanksgiving and we were heading to my brother Jay’s home outside Baltimore, Maryland. We were excited to spend time with his family and celebrate together. As we drove the weather grew worse and worse. The snow and sleet were becoming overwhelming. Cars were pulling off and sliding off the road at an alarming rate. My hands gripped the steering wheel tighter than I knew I could.

I love sitting here at the coffee shop and hearing multiple languages spoken. It’s beautiful.

Good morning! May you be fully present with those around you #today.

#Wordle 837 3/6* ⬛⬛🟩⬛🟩 ⬛🟨🟩🟨🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 The Old Gal pulled out a tie today!

Good morning! May you leave joy in your wake as you pursue your authentic self today.

Good morning! May you start your week with enthusiasm, joy, and hope.

Good friends seem to know what you need even when you don’t.

Good morning! May you connect deeply with others today experiencing the richness of being known.

This was one heckuva week. High highs. Low lows. I’m so grateful to be with my people at Peace Presbyterian Church and The Acts 13 Network tomorrow. Tonight, my guy Todd Waller came over and just hung out. It was good for my soul. Friends, I’ve witnessed community at its absolute best over the last week. I hope you have a community of people in your life. If you don’t, I’d love to share mine with you.

Good morning! May you intentionally pursue joy today.

I get to spend time with both my kids today. Life is good!

Good morning! May you finish the week well #today, press on!

I love watching this kid play ball!

I can’t seem to escape the question, “What’s so amazing about grace?” I want it to be simple. But it’s not. So what do you think? What makes grace amazing?

Good morning! May you get that thing off your list #today that is going to impede rest.

#Wordle 831 4/6* 🟨⬛⬛⬛⬛ 🟩🟨⬛⬛⬛ 🟩🟨🟩⬛⬛ 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 It will be interinteresting to see if the Old Gal beats me!

A fresh pot of coffee? I don’t mind if I do. ☕️

“Friendship is a much underestimated aspect of spirituality. It’s every bit as significant as prayer and fasting. Like the sacramental use of water and bread and wine, friendship takes what’s common in human experience and turns it into something holy.” 📚: Eugene Peterson, Leap Over A Wall

“Love—God’s love in particular—is fundamental to the world’s existence. Love is the background against which everything else is played…” 📚: Leap Over A Wall by Eugene Peterson

I began my journey toward physical fitness with a commitment to walk fifteen minutes per day. My thinking was that I could do anything for fifteen minutes. Rarely did I walk for less than twenty minutes. Almost always, I walked at least thirty. write.as/danielmro…

We aren’t made to walk the path alone. I began my journey toward physical fitness with a commitment to walk fifteen minutes per day. My thinking was that I could do anything for fifteen minutes. I was right. Rarely did I walk for less than twenty minutes. Almost always, I walked at least thirty. I had, in my excitement over such a plan, decided to invite some close friends to hold me accountable.

We aren’t made to walk the path alone. I began my journey toward physical fitness with a commitment to walk fifteen minutes per day. My thinking was that I could do anything for fifteen minutes. I was right. Rarely did I walk for less than twenty minutes. Almost always, I walked at least thirty. I had, in my excitement over such a plan, decided to invite some close friends to hold me accountable.

What do you think it means to love well?

Today requires three things: The gym. Writing. Music.

Good morning! Let’s try this cross post set up one more time!

As I continue to work on getting this social feed back up and running, I am wondering if cross posting works.

#Wordle 830 4/6* ⬛⬛🟩🟨🟩 🟩⬛🟩⬛🟩 🟩🟨🟩🟨🟩 🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 Well, pretty sure the Old Gal will get me today!

Good morning dear #fediverse! May you make progress #today so that you can find some rest.

The sorrow of life is more real some days than others.

Trying out the new micro blog set up.

Testing out the new micro blog set up.

What if we valued perseverance over being perfect? Sophia was walking through the forest with her friend Avil. As they were walking and talking she stubbed her toe on a root that had broken through the path. She stumbled and exclaimed her shock and surprise. She regained her footing and they continued walking. A little bit later, Avil stubbed his toe as well. He cried out and then found another root and stubbed his other toe.

What if we valued perseverance over being perfect? Sophia was walking through the forest with her friend Avil. As they were walking and talking she stubbed her toe on a root that had broken through the path. She stumbled and exclaimed her shock and surprise. She regained her footing and they continued walking. A little bit later, Avil stubbed his toe as well. He cried out and then found another root and stubbed his other toe.

Our self identity shapes what we do. A couple of years ago I read a book called Atomic Habits by James Clear. He tells the story of a friend who went on a weight loss journey. To begin this journey his friend started a habit of going to the gym. At this point you might be thinking, “Well, of course he did.” But here’s the kicker, he never went in. Every day he drove to the gym and parked in the parking lot.

Our self identity shapes what we do. A couple of years ago I read a book called Atomic Habits by James Clear. He tells the story of a friend who went on a weight loss journey. To begin this journey his friend started a habit of going to the gym. At this point you might be thinking, “Well, of course he did.” But here’s the kicker, he never went in. Every day he drove to the gym and parked in the parking lot.

Answering one question can start the journey. I recently shared a before and after picture one year apart on my social feeds. It sparked congratulations and a lot of kind words. Over the last eighteen months I have lost over 100 lbs. My entire body has changed. I see old pictures and it doesn’t even seem like I’m the same person. Do you want to know something interesting? When I look in the mirror I don’t really see much change at all.

Answering one question can start the journey. I recently shared a before and after picture one year apart on my social feeds. It sparked congratulations and a lot of kind words. Over the last eighteen months I have lost over 100 lbs. My entire body has changed. I see old pictures and it doesn’t even seem like I’m the same person. Do you want to know something interesting? When I look in the mirror I don’t really see much change at all.

Why I find the Jesus Way helpful in loving well. In the single most unsurprising thing ever written, I as a pastor think about religion. I think about it an awful lot. For a long time whenever I thought about religion I did so in a negative way. There was almost an allergic reaction to the word for me. Religion, in my understanding was nothing more than a set of beliefs or rules, an attempt by humanity to reach God.

Why I find the Jesus Way helpful in loving well. In the single most unsurprising thing ever written, I as a pastor think about religion. I think about it an awful lot. For a long time whenever I thought about religion I did so in a negative way. There was almost an allergic reaction to the word for me. Religion, in my understanding was nothing more than a set of beliefs or rules, an attempt by humanity to reach God.

This week we take a look at Paul’s visit to the Areopogus in the city of Athens.

Could religion actually be good? When you think of religion what comes into your mind? For many of us it’s probably something like, “man’s pursuit of the divine,” or “a system of beliefs,” or “the crutch of humanity,” or “the worst thing that’s ever happened to humanity.” Whatever our understanding or definition it’s typically tinged with a bit of negativity. How many folks do you know say something like, “I’m spiritual not religious”?

Could religion actually be good? When you think of religion what comes into your mind? For many of us it’s probably something like, “man’s pursuit of the divine,” or “a system of beliefs,” or “the crutch of humanity,” or “the worst thing that’s ever happened to humanity.” Whatever our understanding or definition it’s typically tinged with a bit of negativity. How many folks do you know say something like, “I’m spiritual not religious”?

What if deconstruction was something else? Everywhere you look people are deconstructing. For some, this looks like a total rejection of faith. Some question a doctrine here or there. Others walk away from “church” and hold on to Jesus. Loads of “Christian famous” folks are carrying out their deconstruction online for the world to see. Some are leveraging deconstruction for financial gain (yes, you can hire people to coach you through a season of deconstruction).

What if deconstruction was something else? Everywhere you look people are deconstructing. For some, this looks like a total rejection of faith. Some question a doctrine here or there. Others walk away from “church” and hold on to Jesus. Loads of “Christian famous” folks are carrying out their deconstruction online for the world to see. Some are leveraging deconstruction for financial gain (yes, you can hire people to coach you through a season of deconstruction).

This week we talk about hospitality through the story of Jason in Acts 17.

My certainty died but then my faith lived I was there when he died. I sat next to him as they turned off all the machines. His wife and daughters had left the hospital and entrusted these moments to me and another friend. It didn’t take long. He was ready. I had met him shortly after we moved into the neighborhood. He had a loud laugh and a sly sense of humor.

My certainty died but then my faith lived I was there when he died. I sat next to him as they turned off all the machines. His wife and daughters had left the hospital and entrusted these moments to me and another friend. It didn’t take long. He was ready. I had met him shortly after we moved into the neighborhood. He had a loud laugh and a sly sense of humor.

We explore three scenes in Acts 16 and what do we find? Practice of Prayer, Practice of Presence, and the Practice of Piety (all the alliteration!)

We take a look at the first Church council, the Jerusalem Council. What we discover there informs us even to this day about the nature of following Christ. Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI

There is this interesting little line in the letter that Paul of Tarsus wrote to the faith community in Galatia.

>“Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never >again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.” - Galatians 5:1, The >Message

What does it mean that we are set free to live a free life?

There is this interesting little line in the letter that Paul of Tarsus wrote to the faith community in Galatia. “Christ has set us free to live a free life. So take your stand! Never again let anyone put a harness of slavery on you.” – Galatians 5:1, The Message What does it mean that we are set free to live a free life? Our freedom is rooted in grace.

Dan does a dive into Acts 14:21-28 and we wrestle with the reality that life is hard.

Is placing your faith in Christ just a different way of saying, “earn your ticket to heaven”?

That’s a question that I’ve received often over the years. It usually crops up when a friend and I begin talking about, “grace.”

Remember, grace is God lavishing God’s love on us through Christ. This lavishing of God’s love is nothing that we earn. It’s nothing that we can bring on ourselves. It is the effect of Christ choosing to reconcile all things through the cross. Christ sets all things right and then we get to experience this God-wrought-loving-justice by faith.

For the last few years I’ve had the joy of preaching at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI. This year, I gave in and started recording the messages and posting them as a weekly podcast. Here is this week’s message. Perhaps you will find it encouraging: I call it, Common Grace: open.spotify.com/episode/6…

Paul and Barnabas let us in on a little secret, God gives joy to everyone…

I remember sitting in the living room of my friend, mentor, and pastor, Bob Smart. There were about ten of us sitting in a circle for a Koinonia Group. Koinonia is the Greek word that is roughly translated as “fellowship” in English. He asked a simple question, “What is grace?”

I answered quickly because I knew the answer!

“Grace is unmerited favor, Bob!” I said.

“What’s so amazing about that?” He said.

Often, as we read through the Old Testament, it feels like God is some sort of angry deity. We read some of the stories and think, “Woah dude, chill out.” Yet, when we read closer, we see how many times God warns the people.

Links

We explore the opening verses of Acts 14 and ask, “how do we respond to conflict?”

“Karma is a bitch.”

Did that get your attention? 😏

I am sure it did. Pastors are not supposed to use that kind of bad language.

“Karma is a bitch.” Did that get your attention? I am sure it did. Pastors are not supposed to use that kind of bad language. This little sentence is something that we hear often in our world isn’t it? It points to this sense that “what we put out into the universe will return to us.” If we do bad things, then we get bad things in return, so the thinking goes.

It’s been a really fun few days watching our boy play ball. The joy on his face as he plays the game he loves is like nothing else.

We explore the beginning of Paul’s missionary journey. Recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church, Flint, MI

Could Antioch be the ideal church?

Good morning! What’s good today?

I really want to start writing long-form again. I am feeling uninspired. So #fediverse, what would helpful to hear from The Pastor Next Door?

Learning new things is hard. I’m continuing to learn how to lift weights. I’m falling love with doing hard things.

We take a look at the next step in the development of our family story with the planting of the church in Antioch.

When even your tobacco is orthodox… 😂😂🤷‍♂️

This might be one of the most challenging books I’ve read. It is impacting my soul in ways I didn’t expect. Currently reading: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson 📚

If you’re into sermons, I’m posting mine here. podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/…

Sweet summer nights! #LifeIsGood

I love Ypsilanti to my core. There is a resonant joy in this town that fills my soul. I moved outside at the coffee shop and now I get to hear the singing of people as they walk down the street or are driving slowly through town.

A perfect iced coffee at my favorite coffee shop in Ypsilanti, Cafe Liv!

I am teaching my way through the book of Acts at the moment. The two things that I am confronted with on almost every page: There’s only “us” and no “we/them”, in Christ there is no “other.” “Presence” is central to following Christ.

I would love for you to join me for Tap Room Tuesday! kommunity.com/thepastor…

“Commands assume freedom and encourage response. Addressed by commands we are trained in response-ability.” Currently reading: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson 📚

This week we explore the fall out from Peter’s time with Cornelius.

This was originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI

The new micro.blog app update is niiiiice!

Reading and enjoying a nice smoke on my patio while overlooking a freshly mown lawn. #lifeisgood

“What we do in secret determines the soundness of who we are in public. Prayer is the secret work that develops a life that is thoroughly authentic and deeply human.” Currently reading: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson 📚

“Prayer is the act in which we approach God as living person, a thou to whom we speak, not an it that we talk about.” — Eugene Peterson, Run With Horses

We explore the key passage of Acts 10 and Peter’s conversion.

A ball field on a beautiful night is one of my happy places.

Join us as we continue our study of Acts. This week we take a look at a small passage that in some ways feels insignificant. Perhaps it’s more significant than we think?

Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI.

What a beautiful day to spend on the patio of my favorite Flint Area Coffee Shop, The Station!

If you live near Ypsilanti, MI I’d love for you to join me for Tap Room Tuesday… kty.li/fXHHN

If you like to listen to sermons, here’s my most recent from the book of Acts. podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/…

Check out this week’s message, Fear or Fear?, from Acts 9:19-31. Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI

I rolled into one of my favortie mite coffee shops today, The Station (in Flushing, MI), and it is hopping! There’s just something life giving about being in a place where are there conversations, laughter, and the gentle hum of life.

These days there’s so much real life, in person, doing all the things that I have struggled to create a rhythm to write and create. One of my goals this week is to block time to create and publish.

Spending time at my favorite Flint area coffee shop today, The Station Coffee Co! If you’re around the area and want to connect, hit me up.

I really need to be productive today. So, I’m starting with this list: Gym Emails and other communication Lunch Reading/studying Chorin’ Reward: Bowling with the fellas!

I’ve been preaching at a quaint little Presbyterian Church in Flint the last few years as pulpit supply. I finally started recording and uploading the sermons. If that’s something you’re interested in, you can check them out here: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/…

We take a look a the overwhelming of Christ in today’s message from Acts 9:1-19. Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI

If you’re in the Ypsilanti area, check out Tap Room Tuesday… gettogether.community/events/32…

Chris Stapleton is built different… That’s it. That’s the post.

Consistency is the key. Down below 250lbs, that’s over 70lbs. Not perfect. Consistent.

Acts 8 has an important transition function in the story of Acts. We see Philip take the gospel to the people who were on the outside looking in for Temple worship. All of a sudden, the dividing walls were taken down. *Originally preached at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI

This is a helpful and insightful thread by @timwilson@mastodon.world for those of us doing pastoral work in a context outside of the mainstream. mastodon.world

Often, as we read through the Old Testament, it feels like God is some sort of angry deity. We read some of the stories and think, “Woah dude, chill out.” Yet, when we read closer, we see how many times God warns the people. And then warns the people again, and again, and again… Now it feels like a loving parent who has asked their kid to pick up their shoes for the 100th time and finally loses their cool.

I’m beyond proud of this kid. He’s a college baseball player and he’s also demolishing it in the classroom. Tonight he was honored for making the Moot Court Nationals at LSU and inducted into the Pi Sigma Alpha Honors Fraternity. #notjustanathlete #smarterthanme

Golfing with my pops today was good for the soul. I’m so grateful for these days.

I get to play golf with my Dad today. Can. Not. Wait. This is the best perk of being a pastor, the flexibility to spend time in various ways. Tonight I will be bowling with men (and friends) from our faith community. These are good days. 🏌️‍♂️🎳

We take a look at the martyrdom of Stephen and ask, “What can we walk away with?”

Beginning a week from today I will be hosting a virtual book club on my Telegram channel. We will be reading and discussing Eugene Peterson’s “Leap Over a Wall: Earthly Spirituality for Everyday Christians.” No meetings or anything like that. Just read and reflect as you go. One chapter a week. Share thoughts and respond to others as you feel comfortable. The book: amzn.to/3GvoA6O The channel: t.me/+vVZtv7kB…

The mornings are getting sunnier! I can’t wait to sit on the patio in the morning drinking coffee and reading. Soon!

Christ is risen!

This was a challenging and hope-filled Lenten devotional. I’m grateful for the time spent considering the deep and weighty things of Scripture these last forty days. Finished reading: Wondrous Encounters by Richard Rohr 📚

“Jesus dies “for” us not in the sense of “in place of” but “in solidarity with.”” - Richard Rohr This struck a chord with me. I have been thinking a lot about the crucifixion and how cheap it often feels to me. The idea of it being nothing more than a payment for services rendered, so to speak, a mere transaction, has sat less well with me over the years.

Amy and I had an absolutely marvelous time tonight! Our neighbors, Noah and Kandice, invited us and a few other neighbors to their home for the Passover Seder. It was just beautiful on every level. So thankful!

Scored some new vinyl today. What a beautiful album not just musically but also in physical presentation.

“No child is just a child. Each is a creature in whom God intends to do something glorious and great.” Currently reading: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson 📚

Sitting in the garage with a pipe of really nice tobacco, a book that is blowing my mind, and watching a storm roll in? This fantastic.

In August, Amy and I are participating in something called, The Mammoth March. You hike 20 miles in 8 hours. Training starts now.

My daughter’s sorority, Pi Beta Phi, is raising money for the Spartan Strong Fund. If you’ve wondered how you could help after the shooting at MSU, this is a tangible way to do so. msugw.crowdchange.co/32554

“Karma’s a bitch.” Did that get your attention? 😏 I am sure it did. Pastors are not supposed to use that kind of bad language. This little sentence is something that we hear often in our world isn’t it? It points to this sense that “what we put out into the universe will return to us.” If we do bad things, then we get bad things in return, so the thinking goes.

We continue our exploration of the book of Acts. We take a look at the surprising calling of Stephen and six others. Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI.

A cold day at the ball field, wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

Currently reading: Deep Work by Cal Newport 📚 I’m going back through this book and creating a list of questions to process. As a pastor, I feel like I need deep work and somehow maintain connection via modern digital network tools. Curious what others think…

Fridays are leg days for me at the gym. They are always hard. They always hurt. Amy asked, “Since they always hurt, maybe you’re doing them wrong?” “I’m pretty sure they always hurt because I’m doing them right,” I said.

What do you consider to be the ideal length for a solo #podcast with no guests? 🎙️

Pastors, what rhythm do you have for creating space for deep work and at the same time being connected and available through the digital networking tools at our disposal?

I am really liking using Obsidian to craft blog posts. It’s a nice interface and makes it easy to drop onto micro.blog.

Fireside Coffee in Flint, MI for the win! This Brazilian “Sweet Yellow,” is dang good! ☕️

Today marks my favorite weekend of the year. It is #OpeningDay for MLB ⚾️! There is hope and expectation and a dream of warm summer nights at ball park or sitting on the patio with a cold beer and the game on the radio.

Just started a new, to me, book by Eugene Peterson. The opening sentences: “The puzzle is why so many people live so badly. Not so wickedly, but so inanely. Not so cruelly, but so stupidly.” This book is going to be something else. Currently reading: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson 📚

Trying out a coffee shop in Eastern Market in Detroit, Anthology. My guy The Beard loves it and recommends the Coffee Tonic. He’s right on the money. Delicious!

Pistons game with some of the fellas courtesy of our guy Noah (not pictured). 🏀

This book was really insightful and helpful. I am excited to begin putting some of Dr Li’s insights into practice. For instance, today I began drinking green tea. Finished reading: Eat to Beat Your Diet by William M. Li 📚

If you’re in the Ypsilanti area, I’d love for you to come out and join me for some intentional conversation tomorrow night at Tap Room. gettogether.community/events/30…

I remember sitting in the living room of my friend, mentor, and pastor, Bob Smart. There were about ten of us sitting in a circle for a Koinonia Group. Koinonia is the Greek word that is roughly translated as “fellowship” in English. He asked a simple question, “What is grace?” I answered quickly because I knew the answer! “Grace is unmerited favor, Bob!” I said. “What’s so amazing about that?” He said.

Absolutely killed my workout today! Good start to my off day.

We continue our look into the Book of Acts by taking a look at the time that the Apostles got arrested.

My first day with an Apple Watch that I got just for fitness tracking and I definitely just went for a one mile walk at 9 pm to close all my rings. #challenge #fitness

Tuesday nights I host a conversation called, Tap Room Tuesday. We meet at 8 pm and have an intentional conversation around three questions. Here are the details for our upcoming gathering. gettogether.community/events/30…

I get to spend the day exploring Flint,MI again. I’m in the process of missional mapmaking there and learning the place. If you’re around town and want to hang out, hit me up!

I had fun being a guest on a livestream on Twitch this week. I’m thinking I may give it a go and schedule some live AMAs. So, go give me a follow at twitch.tv/danielmro… If you have a project you’re working on want to be on, let me know!

The World Baseball Classic was absolutely brilliant. Last night, the game was played at a high level with everything you could ask for. Ohtani vs Trout with the game on the line in the 9th? Perfection. ⚾️

I’m so grateful for the life I get to live. Just about every single day I arise to find a day that is filled with things in my wheelhouse. What a life!

Currently reading: Wondrous Encounters : Scripture for Lent by Richard Rohr 📚

I liked this picture for the photoblog challenge with the prompt, analog.

Happy Oberon Day!

We continue our look at the Book of Acts with the crazy story of Ananias and Sapphira, folks, it gets a little weird.

Here are #3goodthings from March 17, 2023: Time with good friends Good food Crazy upsets in college sports

Hit the gym early. Figured this was as good as any for today’s photoblog challenge. @challenges

I arise today Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity, Through belief in the Threeness, Through confession of the Oneness of the Creator of creation. I arise today Through the strength of Christ’s birth with His baptism, Through the strength of His crucifixion with His burial, Through the strength of His resurrection with His ascension, Through the strength of His descent for the judgment of doom. I arise today Through the strength of the love of cherubim, In the obedience of angels, In the service of archangels, In the hope of resurrection to meet with reward, In the prayers of patriarchs, In the predictions of prophets, In the preaching of apostles, In the faith of confessors, In the innocence of holy virgins, In the deeds of righteous men.

Today’s photoblog challnege is, road. My favorite road is often no road at all.

Here are #3goodthings for March 16, 2023: Experienced two new coffee shops and they were fantastic. A day filled with quality conversations. Exploring Flint Township was a great time. @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Here are #3goodthings for March 15, 2023 It was sunny today I had a great lift Bowling was an absolute riot

Today’s photblog challenge: patience The journey toward health in whatever area demands patience.

Wednesdays are great days because they end with bowling league and time with fantastic friends.

March 14, 2023 #3goodthings An unreal conversation that lasted hours with a new friend. A massive incline workout. Ice cold beer. @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Today’s photoblog challenge, horizon. One of my favorite views in Ypsi.

Here are #3goodthings from yesterday, March 13, 2023: The dinner I cooked up was dang good My son sent me a picture of the fantastic meal he cooked I rested @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

I did the thing today. 💪

Day 13 of the Photblogging Challenge: connection I have learned the critical importance of connection to my body. Working out has been crucial to that process. I live a lot in my head and trying to figure out how live embodied has a been a journey.

As I meditate this morning on rest I am struck by the fact that I don’t do it well. My inclination is distraction. To turn on the television and watch something. To fill my ears with sound. To give my mind a distraction away from whatever is happening inside it. Some turn to drugs or alcohol, for me it’s shows. Distraction and rest are not the same. Rest, a true rest, I’m learning is a quieting of the mind and an unburdening of the soul.

Mondays are my favorite day of the week. This is the day that I catch my breath. #Today, I stop and look around and rest a bit. I enjoy unhurried coffee, unhurried exercise, and unhurried reading. Perhaps, I may even write ✍️ today!

Come hang out with me Tuesday night! gettogether.community/events/30…

Does anyone have a FOSS alternative for Facebook events that they like?

Here are #3goodthings for March 12, 2023 An amazing breakfast conversation with a good friend. I think my sermon didn’t suck. There was no traffic between Ypsilanti and Flint! @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Today’s phot blog prompt is, shiny. This ring is the shiniest thing I own and yet it pales in comparison to the one whom it represents.

I have finally figured out my approach to this whole fediverse thing. Thankful to finally have found micro.blog and so now the consolidation has begun. I can finally have one place for all my social musings as well as photos and long form writing!

I have finally figured out my approach to this whole fediverse thing. Thankful to finally have found micro.blog and so now the consolidation has begun. I can finally have one place for all my social musings as well as photos and long form writing!

If the Red Wings can hold on and win this game, it would be such a great win. It points to the reality that they are truly improving. The Yzerplan is real. 🏒

I have posted this week’s message, “Acts 4:23-31 - When the Bad Happens” anchor.fm/acts13/ep…

How do we respond when the bad thing happens? We explore that in this week’s episode.

How about #3goodthings for March 11, 2023? We arrived home safely from Florida Naps! Quality time with my Aunt Mo @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Photo blogging challenge for March 11, gimcrack.

Here are #3goodthings for March 10, 2023 A quiet gorgeous morning on the patio. Breakfast with some of my favorite people, but Libby in particular. Sitting in the shade at a ball field. @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Jumping in for the Micro Blog photoblog challenge for March. March 10: Ritual The morning coffee…

Currently reading: The World-Ending Fire by Wendell Berry 📚 As I continue to slowly work my way through this text, I am reminded that I live too fast. I don’t savor life and am rarely as present as I would like to be.

One last delightful warm and sunny morning before returning to the misery that is Michigan’s March.

One last morning in the warmth.

#3goodthings for March 9, 2023

1. A cool morning
2. Gorgeous weather for baseball
3. A good walk

Just running a little test post.

March 9, 2023 The post March 9, 2023 first appeared on Daniel M Rose.

Sitting outside on a blissfully cool morning in central Florida, reading, meditating, and drinking coffee; I’m not sure that life gets much better. I’m so grateful.

March 8, 2023 #3goodthings Coffee with Amy Conversations with E The dinner conversation with Amy, E, Dennis, and Jeanne @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

This one kicked my butt. #challenge

I am beginning to learn that to love well demands a letting go of ego as much as it is an embracing of the other. In so many ways, the former is way more difficult than the latter.

On Tuesday evenings I host a time of intentional conversation. I’d love for you to join me on Tuesday, March 14 at 8 pm. danielmrose.com/events/ta…

It’s hard to believe that this was 16 years ago. But now, here we are. Both of these two little ones are grown and living their best lives. Ethan is spending his Spring Break playing baseball. Libby is spending hers on the beach with friends. Amy and I are joyfully resting.

March 7, 2023 #3goodthings A quiet morning reading Scripture, Wendell Berry, Richard Rohr, and TS Eliot Watched some good baseball Wings! @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

March 6, 2023 #3goodthings I worked out For whatever reason, my coffee was particularly delicious today I got to spend some great time with a good friend and mentor

My favorite feature of the house we are staying at in FL may be the patio ceiling fan. This area is always shaded and this fan makes it so comfortable when you’re done with the sun.

March 5, 2023 #3goodthings I got to cook a delicious dinner for my family Hitting golf balls for the first time since November Spending the afternoon with E

March 4,2023 #3goodthings Morning coffee on the patio Staying on schedule with eating even on vacation Perfect weather @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Currently reading: The World-Ending Fire by Wendell Berry 📚

Sitting outdoors and enjoying a cuppa, a good read, fresh air, and sunshine may be my favorite way to start a day. #goodlife #emptynest

March 3, 2023 #3goodthings The sun was shining and warm The joy of my son on a baseball diamond Spending an afternoon outside watching baseball @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

This is what it’s all about.

Life is good.

That morning coffee hits different when you’ve been driving all night! #baseballparents

March 2, 2023 #3goodthings Ethan and Libby got to their spring break destinations safely. I took a nap. Road tripping with Amy to Florida by ourselves for the first time since 2001. @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

I’m intrigued by indieweb rsvp. But, I’m missing how to create an event. Where does one do that?

I forgot yesterday’s #3goodthings! So, #3goodthings for March 1, 2023: I cleared a pre-travel to do list I enjoyed time at my favorite coffee shop We had bowling league last night and it was a great time with good friends @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Do you ever read something or hear something that you just know is true? I bumped into a quote today from the Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard, “Life must be lived forward, but it can only be understood backward.(Rohr, Richard. Wondrous Encounters : Scripture for Lent (p. 32). Franciscan Media. Kindle Edition.)“ I have been meditating on it all day. It’s just stuck my mind like a splinter in the brain. It’s like I can’t escape it.

Do you ever read something or hear something that you just know is true? I bumped into a quote today from the Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard, “Life must be lived forward, but it can only be understood backward.(Rohr, Richard. Wondrous Encounters : Scripture for Lent (p. 32). Franciscan Media. Kindle Edition.)“ I have been meditating on it all day. It’s just stuck my mind like a splinter in the brain. It’s like I can’t escape it.

Do you ever read something or hear something that you just know is true? I bumped into a quote today from the Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard, “Life must be lived forward, but it can only be understood backward.(Rohr, Richard. Wondrous Encounters : Scripture for Lent (p. 32). Franciscan Media. Kindle Edition.)" I have been meditating on it all day. It’s just stuck my mind like a splinter in the brain. It’s like I can’t escape it.

A well deserved nitro cold brew with some heavy cream at my favorite coffee shop, Cafe Liv in Ypsilanti, MI.

Self-care includes doing things that make you feel tired and sore and gross.

My favorite discussion topic from last night’s Tap Room Tuesday conversation was, “Name three things that bring you joy.” I would love to know yours! Mine were: Being outside Being in an intellectual flow Helping others discover something new

#3GoodThings - February 28, 2023 I got to drive with Amy to and from work today. It was quality time. I had three fantastic conversations (two with groups and one individual). I get to host a conversation tonight of intentional discussion. @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

Finished reading: Faithful Presence: Seven Disciplines That Shape the Church for Mission by David E. Fitch 📚

Currently reading: The Acts of the Apostles by JG Dunn 📚

Currently reading: The Wisdom Pattern by Richard Rohr 📚

Game night!

The Red Wings are buzzing tonight! They are playing with some urgency in Ottawa. #LGRW

#3GoodThings February 27, 2023 A quiet day of reading, writing, and processing A good day of eating healthy Rediscovered the music of Parliament Funkadelic and it made me smile @3goodthings@a.gup.pe

I’m following all the #baseball micro.blog users I can. ⚾️

Popped on this playlist on a whim, and woo! It was exactly the move for a rainy quiet day off. music.apple.com/us/playli… #funkadelic #gfunk

On Tuesday nights I host a gathering of intentional conversation, Tap Room Tuesdays. Join me! Details are here: danielmrose.com/events/ta…

What are three specific things you’re doing today to help yourself to flourish? For me: I exercised I meditated on Scripture I am choosing to spend time with friends tonight #health #well-being #flourishing

When it’s gross outside and you decide to do a body weight workout at home. But then, you realize your body weighs more than anything you lift at the gym! #health #exercise #journey

We explore the aftermath of Peter and John healing the man at the gate called Beautiful. Originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI.

Jordan Walker is that guy. #cardinals

I’m working hard at becoming the best version of me. So, a green smoothie 5-6 days per week is breakfast. It tastes better than it looks (191 cals, 25g protein). #foodnotpills

I’m pondering my shadow self this morning. As opposed to running from it or hiding it, I want to understand more deeply how to include it and transcend it.

Over the last few years I have become more interested in engaging with the seasons of the Church calendar. I know that as a child our church followed a regular liturgy that included a focus on the seasons. Advent, Lent, etc…were all times of the year that meant something. I didn’t really notice. Yet, as I grow older and look around our world, I think there is something critically important to mark the rhythms of life with these seasons.

Huge Red Wings game tonight. Two points back with four games in hand. I have become a believer! #lgrw #hockey

What steps have you taken to move beyond dualistic thinking toward a more wholistic perspective that is rooted in grace?

I’ve never really been all that into posting my sermons online. But, here we are. You can find them at Acts 13 Network.

Socrates is quoted as saying, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Let’s make life worth living!

This week we continue exploring the story of people in the book of Acts. Dan challenges us to consider restoring dignity and removing shame from those in the fringes. This was originally recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI.

In this episode we explore together Acts 2:42-47. This message was recorded at Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint, MI.

What happens when God shows up?

The early church is left in a state of bewilderment and shock. Now what do they do?

We begin our study of the Book of Acts.

I’ve been thinking about the New Year, a bit. In so many ways we often start the New Year thinking about shortcomings. It’s the “I‘m nots…” So, we make resolutions to try and “fix” whatever it is we are “not.” I read a book last year about habit forming, Atomic Habits, and one of the things that has really stuck with me is the importance on setting my mind on the kind of person that I desire to be.

I’ve been thinking about the New Year, a bit. In so many ways we often start the New Year thinking about shortcomings. It’s the “I‘m nots…” So, we make resolutions to try and “fix” whatever it is we are “not.” I read a book last year about habit forming, Atomic Habits, and one of the things that has really stuck with me is the importance on setting my mind on the kind of person that I desire to be.

I’ve been thinking about the New Year, a bit. In so many ways we often start the New Year thinking about shortcomings. It’s the “I‘m nots…” So, we make resolutions to try and “fix” whatever it is we are “not.” I read a book last year about habit forming, Atomic Habits, and one of the things that has really stuck with me is the importance on setting my mind on the kind of person that I desire to be.