Who are the “Saints” in your life?  You know, the ones that have been a positive influence in your life.  The ones that have modeled grace and generosity and unconditional love.  In this special episode of Coffee to Go, hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith talk a bit about the importance of honoring those who…

When you get to the point that you’re asking Jesus which of the commandments (laws) is the greatest, you’re either trying to trick him, or you’re looking for a loophole! If your intent is to trick, be prepared to have the tables turned on you.  If your intent is to find a loophole, well ……

Most everyone wants to belong … to a group or organization or sacred community, but not many folks will admit wanting to belong to someone.  It’s a good thing, then, that God is not just any some “one.” And, from the day of our conception, and made public in the waters of baptism, we belong…

What do you wear to a party? You might say, “Well, it depends on what type of party it is, when it is and where it’s being held.” What if we told you that the party is every day, in every circumstance, and Jesus is the host? The reality is that you, and all of…

It’s all about the fruit! So, what kind of fruit are you producing and harvesting?  You wouldn’t want to be an unproductive “tenant” would you? This week’s journey with Jesus finds him facing off with some of the chief priests and Pharisees… again! Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith as they explore the Parable…

When it comes to matters of faith, it’s sometimes hard to know whether to stand up or to stay quiet.   Today’s episode finds hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith journeying with Jesus in Jerusalem as the religious leaders are questioning Jesus about his authority. And, no surprise, Jesus has a question or two of…

“That’s not fair!” is a common response to today’s gospel passage.  But, then again, nothing is in the Kingdom of God … thank goodness!  If things were “fair” we might get what we actually deserve rather than the grace and unconditional love offered to us freely by God. This week, hosts Karin Peter and Blake…

This week’s journey with Jesus comes with an especially difficult but incredibly important challenge … the mandate to forgive. Too often, when we encounter conflict or disappointment with someone else, we choose to simply move on rather than seek forgiveness and reconciliation … especially when dealing with “repeat offenders.” But as cohost Karin Peter reminds…

The NRSV uses the caption “Reproving Another Who Sins.”  Well, it’s about time we got to call somebody out… right?! Wrong. A little deeper look into where we are with Jesus this week makes clear that what Jesus wants is for us to do everything in our power to reconcile and build up the community….

Following Jesus can be like a wild roller coaster ride.  One minute you’re the rock on which Jesus says he’ll build his church, and the next minute he’s calling you Satan and telling you to get behind him. If that’s ever happened to you, you’re in good company. Peter knew the words to say, but…