Essays and reflections on spiritual formation, the church, music, and daily faithfulness — 638 pieces, gathered in one home.
I honor the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who gave his life today (April 9) living the way of Christ in the face of evil. Two of my favorite quotes are from “Life Together,” and ver
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I shared this week’s “Read Together” podcast for North Alabama United Methodists. Pondering the characters of Samson, Ruth, and Samuel in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel, i
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This is my homily that was shared at a recent Academy for Spiritual Formation at the Warren Willis camp, a United Methodist retreat center in central Florida. Reflecting on Macariu
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Here’s an inspiring word from the preaching Bible that belonged to my Grandpa C. P. Hamby. This is probably the very Bible he laid on the pulpit with two pistols nearby to ward off
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
SPECIAL LENTEN OFFER - Author Discount! Lent begins in a month, and it's a great time to plan an in-depth study for your church, small group, or personal devotions. If you are stay
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Happy day of Epiphany! Here’s a snapshot of Sandy when we were enjoying the Christmas lights at Calloway Gardens. May the light shine and unfold for you the mystery of the ages, hi
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I was on an online forum where someone asked if the plans for regionalization “only affects Africa.” I thought I should share my response here. “No, regionalization would affect ev
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Have a listen to my Advent devotion for the “Pray Together” podcast from the NAL Conference. It’s on the legend of St. Nicholas (e.g. “Santa Claus”) striking Arius the heretic, on
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Here is an article by Greg Garrison that appeared in Al.Com, the Anniston Star, and other publications on November 30, 2023. ## United Methodist split: changing signs reflect uphea
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I’m incredibly honored that an academic journal based in London, Wesley and Methodist Studies, carried a solid review of my new book by Adam Ployd, formerly Vice Principal of Wesle
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This might be a record. I got nineteen minutes (count them, 19!) of their undivided attention at chapel for Kids 1st Academy today. And the best part is I got to answer the questio
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Here is a word of grace for those of us committed to staying in the UMC and responding to continued attacks. At the end of Philippians chapter 1, Paul says: “Only, live your life i
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
These were my remarks at the brief memorial service I was honored to lead for our 40th high school reunion on September 30, 2023. We met in the entrance lobby of the new Grissom Hi
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I have grown to detest this phrase. It carries the pretense of being loving, with the undergirding reality that we assume we are “holier than thou.” I imagine it sounds so differen
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I have been a spokesperson for staying UMC in this season when some have been discerning whether to secede from our denomination or remain in the main body. Each presentation has b
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
There is plenty of biased and misleading information available on the internet to promote the separatist narrative for leaving the UMC. I offer these balancing resources. Is the Un
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This is a letter I was honored to receive after a recent presentation. I share it with you (edited to remove identifying information) because it beautifully and succinctly states,
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I've had several thoughtful and positive comments on my sermon on Trinity Sunday, so I thought I'd share a portion of it here. It's important! I'm excited about being part of God's
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I had a moving experience this past Saturday. I attended the Freedom Riders Anniversary Event on Gurney Avenue in Anniston, coordinated by a friend and parishioner named Pete Conro
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Some have asked to hear the most recent performance of my solo work with the Calhoun County Civic Chorale. It was a professional recording made in the recital hall at Mason Hall at
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Some have asked me to share the audio recording my wife made of “I’ll Be On My Way” by Shawn Kirchner, performed by the Calhoun County Civic Chorale directed by JSU faculty member
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
This article was shared with me by S T Kimbrough, Jr. A key sentences reads "Regardless of current opinions in the church, remembering the posture of our founders is essential if w
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
I get tired of having the same conversation over and over (haha). Somebody tagged me in a post about something an episcopal candidate in another Jurisdiction said, taken out of con
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
Live in the Birmingham area? I'd love to see you. Join me on Nov. 9 at 10 am at Bluff Park UMC or on Nov. 13 anytime between 5:30-7:00 pm at Trinity UMC West Campus.
Originally at Musings of a Musical Preacher
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