I am clergy in the Episcopal Church. I am also a monk dedicated to my life of prayer. Others sometimes assume that people like me have deep insightful wisdom to offer about prayer. Do not be disappointed when I say that I do not. It is not for me to tell anyone how to connect with God. All I can genuinely offer is my own experience, which has taught me that there are as many ways to pray as there are human hearts beating for God. I spent a good deal of time alone as a kid. Not that I was...

John 10:1-10 One of the most tender images in the bible are those of Jesus as a shepherd. Throughout John 10 we hear Jesus refer to himself the shepherd who cares for and calls his sheep. It is such a loving metaphor – the good shepherd who keeps the flock safe and watches over them and even lays down his life for them. In today’s passage Jesus is the gate and the gatekeeper for the herd. He is leading the way into safety and even abundance. What a compelling way for Jesus to illustrate his...

Here we are again with the story of Jesus showing his wounds to reassure Thomas that he continues to be present in his life. This is a story about making sure that Thomas is secure in his walk with Jesus, even after he has been killed. It is important to Jesus that Thomas have a solid faith to rely on as they face the storms ahead for the disciples. Faith is a great strength for all of us as we navigate the challenges life will undoubtedly bring. I didn’t grow up believing in God. We went...