Here in Central Virginia, we’ve had some crazy weather lately: ice, snow, bitter cold, and then rain on top of it all. While that may not be unusual in general, it’s unusual for us. Having to break through snow and ice just to get out of our driveways isn’t something we’re accustomed to in this part of Virginia. All of it got me thinking about a scene from the movie Frozen where Olaf the snowman talks about how much he wants to experience summer. Of course, the joke is that

As I am writing this, we are all bracing here in central Virginia for a big snow and ice storm. By the time some of you read this, it may already be behind us. Right now, though, everyone is making last-minute preparations and hunkering down. It is crazy how storms refocus us on basic things like food, clothing, shelter, and warmth. All week we have been thinking about what we need to get through it. Some people were prepared . Others waited and then discovered heaters and n

Merry Christmas, everyone! Many of you have probably already busted down the stairs (if you have them) and dove headfirst into the pile of presents and stocking stuffers. As I’m sure many of you received gifts you needed and wanted, there is also real joy in watching the faces of those you give to. Sometimes the best part of Christmas morning isn’t what we open — it’s who we’re watching. This Christmas, after everything was opened, I mentioned that only one thing came off he

Photo by Aidan Bartos on Unsplash Yesterday marked the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the United States. This was a defining event in my life. Every generation has that moment when they remember exactly where they were: JFK’s assassination, MLK Jr.’s assassination, the moon landing (if you believe it actually happened). For my generation, 9/11 was that moment. I was in 9th grade in Mr. Jackson’s Earth and Environmental Science class at South Brunswick High School i

Photo by Morrow Solutions on Unsplash He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed! Easter Sunday is here, and while many people are focused on baskets and bunnies, we remember what Easter is truly about—the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This past week at CrossFit , we had an optional finisher workout called The Carry . It was created in partnership with a national CrossFit brand and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). The Carry involves taking a weighted bar

"The first 100 days" is a well-known benchmark, often used to evaluate a U.S. president’s early performance in office. These first months can set the tone for an entire term, filled with executive appointments, executive orders, and legislative priorities. A pastor’s first 100 days can feel just as pivotal. While many church leadership experts suggest avoiding major changes during the first six months, those early days are still packed with activity. At the time of writing,

There's something truly special about good friends, isn't there? A friend from our current church once gifted us a decorative block that...

Several weeks ago, our Upward Sports Flag Football and Cheer Ministry participated in our local high school's Homecoming parade. This has...

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! While many people look at this holiday weekend as family barbecues, the beginning of summer, great shopping deals, and the like, we must remember what it really represents: the commemoration of all those who have died defending our freedom in this country. Since these men and women are not here to thank directly, I would like to say “Thank you, and I appreciate your sacrifice” to them by thanking and recognizing their families who survive them. **

About a week and a half ago, we celebrated Easter. Many people celebrated it by decorating Easter Eggs and looking forward to the gift of Easter Baskets filled with toys and candy. Christians, while maybe doing the same thing, celebrated the Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. Jesus is simply amazing. From all standpoints, especially the idea that He would die for me and then come back to life. However, there is another amazing point. He is absolutely the most important figure in all o

Yesterday, in the United States, we inaugurated our 46th president. Many of you probably have strong feelings about this new...