Who or what inspires you?  The underdog comes from behind and pulls an upset in a sporting event. Seeing someone overcome great obstacles to achieve success. The glory of a sunset at the beach or in the mountains. The courageous actions of someone who takes a stand because they refuse to be denied. What creates [...]

Recently my wife and I were in an antique mall, and I came across a booth filled with vinyl records. As I was thumbing through them, I found a copy of Simon & Garfunkel’s first album from 1964, “Wednesday Morning, 3am”. The record describes itself as “exciting new sounds in the folk tradition”. On the [...]

Earlier this week, I was out in my yard, preoccupied with watering the flowers and a multitude of things I needed to do. In the midst of hurrying to get my task done so I could on to another task on my list, I saw a beautiful butterfly, a tiger swallowtail, dancing among the blooms. I watched as [...]

As part of our Foundation’s portfolio, we manage the scholarship and grant dollars of the Martin Methodist (College) Foundation. Though the school no longer functions as it once did, the legacy of gifts from generous donors lives on to provide resources for students on their higher education journey. Recently, our staff and members of the [...]

In my decades of local church appointments July was a time for some summer sabbath, perhaps a unique sermon series, and the startling realization that we are half-way through the year. August became a key month for making sure everything was in place and ready for engaging fall programming, back to school activities, finalizing details [...]

Recently, I have seen a wide range of articles and heard reports on what some have called an “epidemic of loneliness” in our society, especially among the elderly, youth, and young adults. So many theories about the causes of this widespread problem can be found; however, regardless of the causes (and I believe there are many contributing factors), [...]

If you have studied Methodist history and doctrine, you have likely come across the concept of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral. Developed by pastor, theologian, historian, and professor Rev. Dr. Albert Outler, the quadrilateral is a series of four mechanisms that he concluded John Wesley used for effective theological discernment. Dr. Outler identified them as Scripture, Tradition, [...]

I hope you had a positive, patriotic experience yesterday celebrating the historically recognized birthday of the United States of America. We are 249 years old! It is always a meaningful holiday that provides an opportunity to celebrate the many freedoms which make our country unique and strong. What might we consider the most important freedoms [...]

On the morning of June 22 the lead headline on the Daily Memphian web page read in a large, bold font: “Most important Memphian of all time has died”. Depending on the era and context of importance, that statement could have applied to any number of people. For music, Elvis Presley. In sports, Larry Finch. [...]