This weekend, those of us on the East Coast of the United States got several feet of snow dumped on us. It’s one of the biggest blizzards ever recorded in this part of the world, and it’s quite a sight to behold. Here in Washington, DC, we’re not used to this kind of weather. We …
It’s been a mighty warm winter so far, but that’s over now. Here in Washington, DC, snow hit the ground last night. It was just a dusting, maybe an inch, but the weather forecasters are telling us more is coming. There could be feet of snow by Saturday – enough to shut down the whole city. This week’s …
The Christian tradition can seem a bit confusing when it comes to the subject of fear. Is fear a legitimate, God-given emotion, or is it something to be overcome by the power of love? There is a strong biblical case to be made for both perspectives. On the one hand, the authors of the Bible repeatedly paint …
When I was in middle school, my parents sent me to space camp. Twice. In addition to quite possibly making them the best parents ever, it gave me the opportunity to learn a lot about how space exploration works. Space travel is hard. For every pound of equipment launched into low earth orbit, dozens of pounds of fuel …
This year, I refuse to adapt and conform. In so many little ways I am tempted to compromise. I get scared, and I’m tempted to sell out the truth for a more comfortable lie. Sometimes I give into fear. But that was last year. This year, I will live boldly and passionately. I will keep my …
The time between Christmas and New Year’s has always been a special one for me. For weeks leading up to the Christmas holiday, there’s a crescendo of activity: gift-buying, travel preparations, visits with loved ones, and candlelight services. Life fills to bursting. And then, suddenly, nothing. The last week of the year is made up …
What is Christmas? Is it like Thanksgiving – a holiday to eat good food, enjoy family, and rest from labor? Is it a time to go just a little farther into debt, buying presents and celebrating Santa Claus? Is Christmas a solstice celebration? A myth of elves and flying reindeer? A time to re-affirm religious orthodoxy? For …