One of my favorite places to go for moments of inspiration and joy is SoulPancake. A few weeks ago I shared with you the video introduction to their “success series” where they asked people to define what they thought counted as success. Today, a follow-up video where they go a little further by asking people whether they’ve thought about who has helped them become successful. Very few, as it turns out, have. Perhaps that’s not too surprising, as many of us get so busy with work or family or moving toward whatever goal we’ve set or maybe just keeping our heads above water that we don’t take enough time to reflect. So the first...

A quite introductory note: Pressed for time on several fronts, Dear Partner, I’m going to share with you a lightly edited reflection on this week’s Gospel passage that I first wrote three years ago for WorkingPreacher.org. I hope not to have to do that often, as I love our weekly fresh engagement with the text, but for now I appreciate your patience as I try to tend multiple responsibilities. Blessings on your proclamation this week and always. Dear Partner in Preaching, I hate to say it, but I kind of think Matthew’s a punk. Yes, I know, we’re not supposed to say stuff like that. But I can’t help it. Just read...