Every week the Church gathers to do the one thing that every congregation has in common: we worship Jesus Christ, the resurrected One. But what is worship? It is more than the songs we sing. It is more than the prayer(s) we pray. It more than the words the pastor speaks. It is even more…
Two weeks ago, I wrote an article to the larger church entitled, “We Need to Talk.” (https://benbergren.com/article-we-need-to-talk/) Last week, I penned an article on talking less and listening more. (https://benbergren.com/article-listen-more/) I want add one more “thought” to this string of articles. If we are to help others more than judge them and spend more time…
Those who answers before listening— that is their folly and their shame.Proverbs 18:13 Hey! Shhh! Just kidding! The Bible verse and the picture above says it all, doesn’t it? It sure seems that people don’t want to understand those who are different than they are. It is easier if not more pleasurable (in the short…
Hello Church, we need to talk… I am concerned that parts of the Christian Church are spending too much time worrying about other people’s personal conduct. But it is more than that, parts of the Christian church expend way too much energy on what they perceive others are doing wrong while minimizing their own poor…
The various religions of the world show us that there are different ways to relate to God (or for some, gods). Many operate under the assumption that human beings must do the things that God wants in order for God to respond favorably in their lives. Whether that is participating in religious ceremonies or how…
Jim worked for the railroad in South Africa in late 1800’s. James “Jumper” Wide had been known for jumping between railcars until an accident where he fell and lost both of his legs. During his recovery, Jim met Jack and they became the best of friends. Devoted. Inseparable. Jack did everything he could to help…
Last year an anti-lynching bill passed on the floor of the United States Senate by voice vote. Meaning, it was not controversial and it passed easily. This bill intends to make the lynching of another human being a “hate crime.” This bill was sponsored by senators on both sides of the political aisle. If you…
During the “Christmas break” there is always increased traffic by our home. I live in a national park by one of the most scenic and iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. Therefore at every holiday (and I do mean every holiday) there are literally thousands more people trying to enter the…
Have you ever heard about the Christmas truce that occurred during World War I? The fields of Flanders were no place to be on Christmas Eve in 1914. The air was cold and frosty, of course, because it was winter, and things were very quiet. Thousands of British, French, Belgian and German troops were dug-in…
Maybe you have seen this before and maybe you haven’t. Either way, this video is precious and heartwarming. I hope this puts you into the mood for Christmas! God bless you! Pr. Ben
