Essays and reflections on spiritual formation, the church, music, and daily faithfulness — 638 pieces, gathered in one home.
I’ve just confirmed with my own eyes that the “Secretary of War” of our nation released a video on social media of himself praying the Lord’s Prayer, with dramatic music and U.S. m
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Did you know God changes his mind? Exodus 32:12, 14 “Why should the Egyptians say, ‘It was with evil intent that he brought them out to kill them in the mountains, and to consume t
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I’m aware today’s 9/11, and we will see all sorts of reminders to REMEMBER. Here’s a text and thought for you today. Genesis 8:1-4 reads: “But God remembered Noah and all the wild
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
John Pierce “Pete” West, Jr., age 93, of Childersburg, Alabama, went to be with Christ in glory on September 4, 2025. A devoted United Methodist minister, he was also a committed h
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I worked out the weekly worship schedule for Fair Haven. Each Sunday I’ll lead the main service in the chapel, and each Wednesday host a guest speaker for midweek service. I will a
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This year as we approach July 4, I think of the Ken Medema song “I See America.” Bring patriotic is not blindly following leadership, white nationalism, or “America First” mentalit
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Deeply rooted in Christian ethics, I stand against war and violence except in cases of just cause (such as self-defense) and last resort. Therefore, I can not support the preemptiv
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I enjoy leading singing at Annual Conference and using my creative juices in the planning and selection of songs. The theme of opening worship moments was “Silence” on the Saturday
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the wonderful retirement luncheon at Jax First UMC today (most of you know that though I’m not retiring from the Annual Conference yet, I
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This is the speech I made today at Annual Conference in favor of the regionalization amendments. I am Steve West, pastor of Jacksonville First UMC. I am passionately in favor of th
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This quote from the new pope has been circulating with the preface “I like him already.” I do too. — " Brothers, sisters … I speak to you, especially to those who no longer believe
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
With a little help from Chat GPT, I created this "walking prayer" liturgy for gathering leadership the day before Annual Conference. We will pray on Wednesday, May 28, at 3:00 pm.
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
For years, I have kept a John Wesley quote at the very top of my personal rule of life. He said, “Do justice to your own soul; give it time and means to grow. Do not starve yoursel
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
The local church I’m departing from next month will be revamping its website soon after I start my new adventure as a chaplain in Birmingham. I thought I’d capture the article I wr
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
April 22 is “Earth Day,” so as always, the whole world celebrates my birthday. But this year I turned the big “6.0.” So I’m reflecting on life more than usual. I’m grateful for you
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
It's clear in the book of Acts that the DNA of the early church was built on three ideas that got them in lots of "good trouble." They spoke truth to power with the assertion that
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I wrote my letter in supoort of restoring funding for the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. I urge you to write yours. — Dear Governor Ivey, Grace and peace to you. It is my under
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I’m celebrating the new home of a very special prayer kneeler in a new UMC! It was originally placed in memory of my grandmother. It was for the UMC I served as founding pastor man
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Richard Rohr calls out “cultural Christianity.” I believe this wholeheartedly. It’s an alternative way. — “If our love of God doesn’t directly influence, and even change, how we en
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This deeply biblical insight on welcoming the stranger is challenging for us! “This fundamental regard for the resident alien, and call to solidarity with the ‘outsider,’ came to f
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Fair Haven, here I come! Following up on my recent post about our future, I wanted everyone to know my new opportunity is confirmed! I’m excited. We announced this week to the resi
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Have you ever been left holding the rope? I am this week’s “Read Together” podcaster. Join me as we explore the story of Joseph in light of Family Systems Theory! You can find it H
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
For those of you who do not attend the church I serve, let me take this opportunity to share some important news about our future. Sandy and I have thoroughly enjoyed our five year
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Here is a letter from the United Methodist Council of Bishops to President Trump regarding foreign aid. We are the church bring the church. Read the letter HERE.
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
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