Posts Tagged ‘2017’
Be Like Scrooge?
In the last few weeks most of us have encountered some version of ‘A Christmas Carol’, Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. In the initial run-up to Christmas, I must admit I am often a bit of a curmudgeon myself. Perhaps it is hearing ‘Rockin’ around the Christmas Tree’ in November. Or perhaps it is…
Read MoreGenerations of Generosity
Crafting Kindness Handicrafts vendors at summer farmer’s markets are getting ready to pack up their wares for the season. Many will soon find their way to harvest sales and Christmas markets in the coming months. The trend towards handmade, artisanal gifts reminds me of my grandmother’s intricately knitted afghans and delicately crocheted doilies. Grandma loved…
Read MoreEnough is Enough
This 2001 article by Old Testament Theologian Walter Brueggemann might be the best article I have read explaining the biblical intentions of God’s creation, the relationship people are to have with one another, and how that manifests itself in the use and sharing of resources. We have reprinted the entire article here. As Brueggemann articulates…
Read MoreI Love Chestnut Trees
My wife and I planted a chestnut tree last month—a ‘McNair Horsechestnut’ to be precise. Right now, it is 8 feet high. There is a chestnut tree in downtown St. Catharines near the old United Church. I don’t know how old it is but it stands 40-50 feet high. It is huge; beautiful. I want…
Read MoreSometimes you need to receive
Some time ago, during a morning walk, I found a wallet a few blocks from my house. I looked around, hoping the owner might still be close by, but there was no one. Just me. A peek inside revealed a library card, a health card and $25 in bills. That was it. No credit cards.…
Read MoreVoluntary Poverty
Choose Generosity Francis of Assisi’s family was wealthy, and he lived like a typical wealthy young man, enjoying a carefree life of indulgence. Bored at the thought of working with his merchant father, he joined a military expedition against Perugia in 1202. The men of Assisi came under heavy attack in the battle, and Perugia…
Read MoreWhat a Wonderful World!
This weekend, the nation will pause to reflect on the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans. We will observe the poppies and wreaths, listen to the bugle sound, and pray for a peaceful future. Like many of you, I feel sadness that so many young lives ended much too soon. I also feel sadness for the countless…
Read MoreThe Power of Enough
Amidst the twinkling holiday lights, music, and pressure to spend, I find December often throws the disparity in our world into sharp relief. Here in Canada, the cost of living continues to rise. Jobs remain precarious for many. The prevalence of contract positions, lack of benefits, and low wages undermine financial security for many families.…
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