the Rev. Mark David Johnson, MDiv, STM
It’s been a long three days. And when trying to name the exact feeling, that’s where I find myself. Somewhere between broken and empty. Over the last three days, the New Jersey Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America … Read more
“Well, now what?” I don’t title sermons, but if I had to, that’d be it today. “Well, now what?” Of course, Sundays have titles, at least off-the-record. You now, there’s “Good Shepherd Sunday” and “John the Baptist Sunday,” not to … Read more
I love being a pastor. There are some awesome perks – like leading God’s people in worship, having dinner at people’s homes, and being a visible advocate in the community. Although challenges abound, this is a vocation dedicated to loving and serving all of … Read more
Today’s reading from Matthew has two interesting points. First, Jesus gives us practical ways to handle conflict. Make note of the fault; if that doesn’t work, find witnesses; if that doesn’t work, tell the church; and if that doesn’t work (and only … Read more
One of today’s readings is an awesome chunk of Paul’s letter to the Church in Rome. Here’s part of it: For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are … Read more