Author Archives: salooper57

Unknown's avatar

About salooper57

Husband, father, pastor, follower. I am a disciple of Jesus, learning how to do life from him. I read, write, walk, play a little guitar, enjoy my family.

Clearing away the confusion surrounding forgiveness

Posted on August 9, 2014 by salooper57

In what is arguably the most oft-recited Scripture text in history, Jesus teaches his apprentices how to pray. We call this, “The Lord’s Prayer,” or the “Our Father Prayer,” but it might be more accurate to call it, “The Disciple’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith, Lifestyle, Spiritual life | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

The refusal to forgive chains a person to the past

Posted on August 2, 2014 by salooper57

A relationship with God is like a Baroque music composition: there is a point (what God must do) and a counterpoint (what we do in response). The point/counterpoint structure provides the soundtrack to a life of faith. Point: “He first … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith, Lifestyle, Spiritual life | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Are we hardwired to believe in God?

Posted on July 26, 2014 by salooper57

There have been repeated studies over recent years that have suggested that humans are hard-wired for religion, including Dean Hamer’s book-length treatment, “The God Gene: How Faith Is Hardwired Into Our Genes.” Scientists have linked structures within the limbic system … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith, Theology | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

There is no substitute for understanding

Posted on July 19, 2014 by salooper57

Most drivers have no idea what happens when they turn the key in their car’s ignition. They don’t know how turning the key makes the car move. They don’t understand the battery’s role in the process, or the operation of … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Spiritual life, Theology | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

And We Thought We’d Ordered Prime Rib

Posted on July 12, 2014 by salooper57

When we would sit down for our evening meal, my dad, who was an old Leatherneck, would often say, “Well, you see what you fought yourself to.” His combat metaphor was meant, I think, to impress on us the idea … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith, Lifestyle, Marriage and Family | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Life of Joseph sermons now available

Posted on July 11, 2014 by salooper57

Check out the From the Pulpit page for a link to the latest series of sermons (and my foray into a narrative preaching style.)

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Use the Right Tools for the Job

Posted on July 5, 2014 by salooper57

  Millions of people have experienced the value of a rich and healthy spirituality. Yet everyone knows someone whose religion has not only not helped him, but has made him worse. How is it that one person finds treasure in … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Faith, Spiritual life | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Your Short Story’s Place in God’s Long Story

Posted on June 28, 2014 by salooper57

Americans love the Bible. But they love the Bible like they love an ideal, not like they love a spouse. They know the Bible is important; they believe it provides inspired guidance for a life well lived; they hold it … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Faith, Spiritual life, Theology | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Accidents happen … or do they?

Posted on June 21, 2014 by salooper57

I experienced a funny coincidence when looking to purchase a new mattress. I had done my homework, investigating different manufacturers online, looking at reviews and reading what the experts say. My wife and I comparison shopped several mattress stores and … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Faith, Theology | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

New Music

Posted on June 12, 2014 by salooper57

Just added some new music to the Music page for you to check out. It’s called “Should’ve Listened Suite.” Hope you like it. Just click on “Music” in the mast.

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment