I am sure that the only thing that can change the soul of a human is the experience of Life beyond itself. Once you realize that God is active beyond the small world in which we go about our daily tasks, suddenly, the whole world comes alive. What a sad life we lead, when we believe that our singular experience of God is complete...and not only complete, but correct. That's not just seeing through a glass dimly, but not even noticing that you are looking through a dirty lens.
When we take the time to see the depth of humanity in other cultures, languages, identities, lives and perspectives, we are blessed to see a more vivid image of God. Within the depth of that image, our own world is diminished, and yet, God's wonderful world is augmented. Then, when we are decreased, we can begin to see Christ in humanity all around us. Then, and only then, will our hearts, our posture towards the other actually be changed. Then, there is no foreigner or patriot, no refugee or hermit, no homeless or extravagant, no gay or straight, no powerful or weak, no terrorist or target, no liberal or conservative, no Catholic, Evangelical, Muslim, or Jew...only imperfect brothers and sisters, children of the same heavenly Father. And if you see the face of Christ in their face, if you hear the voice of God in their song, if you feel the hand of God in their embrace, then, you will have a change of heart.
This portion of my website is a reflection on the many ways that I experience the otherness of God, and thereby recognize the dim glass through which I see. In so doing, there is a turning, a sanctification that comes through the work of God in my life. But this website is not only a reflection. It is a tribute to the many people, ministries, and moments that reveal the ever changing wind that is the Holy Spirit. The ELCA Division for Global Missions, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, Duke Children's Hospital, N-Street Village, Lutheran World Relief, Malik Jarno, the International Church of Copenhagen, York's Helping Hand for the Homeless, a little boy named Darrell...and the list goes on.
There have been dozens of times within the span of seven years, that I have been blessed in these thin places where God's Spirit moves with power and grace. But I have not just witnessed the presence of life, I have been immersed in the abundant life of so many who have shared their journey with me. This website is an attempt to welcome others into that journey, where I am certain that the experience of life beyond yourself must lead you to a change of heart.