Volume 1 Issue 5

Greetings from sunny Las Vegas! I know that some of you are experiencing less pleasant weather, so I’ll try not to rub it in. But I do love it here!

I thank again all of you who have responded in such complimentary ways to what it is that I’m trying to accomplish with this website. I had the joyful experience this week of “hearing” from Lauren Senn, a “survivor” of one of my confirmation classes. It’s hard to believe that she actually “searched” for me online in order to express her appreciation for one of her past pastors (I’m sure all the rest of you know that October is “Clergy Appreciation Month” but are just waiting until the month is actually here to acknowledge the occasion). Lauren is completing her doctorate in occupational therapy at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and is the newest addition to “the list” of happy reunions made possible by this marvelous technology.

Mary and I just saw “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” If you haven’t seen it yet, I strongly recommend it as a celebration of the unifying power of love. In addition to that, it’s just a good movie.

The word for this week is “hermeneutic” – interpretative, explanatory. “hermeneutics” – 1. the science of interpretation, esp. of the Scriptures. 2. that branch of theology which treats of the principles of Biblical exegesis. (The American College Dictionary) After reading this week’s message, I think you’ll understand why I bring it to your attention. Plus, it will be a great word to throw around at the next party you attend! I guarantee that people will be impressed.

I’ve been asked about the availability of the text that I’ve been referring to so often, “The Five Gospels: The Search for the Authentic Words of Jesus.” (Polebridge Press, 1993) It is available from www.amazon.com in paperback (new $19.60, used from $7.00). This leads me to think that it is then available from most book distributors.

Our webmaster, Matt Piper of WebICX (I really hope he doesn’t mind me calling him that, but it sounds so professional!) informs me that we are dangerously close to a functional bulletin board. Matt amazes me with his knowledge and talent, and further impresses me with his willingness to contribute to this “for loss” endeavor. If you’re so inclined, I don’t think he’ll object to strongly to receiving compliments at: mpiper@WebICX.com. In the not too distant future, you’ll be able to post those compliments on the bulletin board he’s close to finishing.

If the events of the past year have taught us nothing else, it is that each day of life is a precious gift never to be reclaimed. Let us not fail to use each day to its fullest advantage by loving God, and loving God’s children as God loves us. Hug your loved ones and tell them that you love them. Don’t put it off. Tomorrow is not guaranteed, but will be all the richer if we have made the most of this day that the Lord has made.

Until next week……Shalom!