I recently “retired” as the pastor of the most loving and wonderful church family. Woodland Church has been our family’s church home for 27 years and will continue to be our church family. This has been a joyful—and emotionally difficult—decision. One of my friends encouraged me to ignore the sadness I am experiencing and not…Read more A Brief Reflection on Retirement, Love, and Letting Go
Woodland Church
31 Hours ‘Til
Christmas Eve 2025 As I write these words, there are 31 hours left until a new year begins—and 31 final hours for me to serve as pastor of Woodland Church. I pause in this moment with a grateful heart. Scripture tells us, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to…Read more 31 Hours ‘Til
God Holds Us in the Storm: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer
I’m writing from my hospital bed at the University of Michigan Hospital as the storm winds whips snow outside at 24 mph. Soon, children will be sledding and laughing in the snow. Life keeps moving—even in the midst of uncertainty. Thank you for praying for me. The ileostomy closure was successful. While the surgeon was…Read more God Holds Us in the Storm: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer
A Setback and Remarkable Recovery: A Pastor’s Recovery from Cancer
After four days in the hospital with dangerously low sodium, I’m grateful to be home and recovering well. Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and love—please continue to pray as I heal and prepare for more tests in October. God is faithful!
Turning 70, Trusting God, and Treasuring the Journey: Week 4 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
My 70th birthday was filled with family, joy, and the deep presence of God. But in the quiet moments before and after the celebration, I wrestled honestly with fear, faith, and the road ahead. One week before surgery, I want to share what’s in my heart—and the peace I’ve found in God's presence. This past…Read more Turning 70, Trusting God, and Treasuring the Journey: Week 4 A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Overcoming Challenges: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Last Sunday morning after the message, Becky and I shared with our Woodland Church Family, that I have been diagnosed with colon cancer. Fortunately, my doctor caught it early. This week, I met with the surgeons at University of Michigan Hospital. The scans of my abdomen and lungs do not show any signs of the…Read more Overcoming Challenges: A Pastor’s Cancer Diagnosis
Monday Meditation 2026-06-16
"I have never met anyone anywhere like Francis Schaeffer, who took God so passionately seriously, people so passionately seriously, and truth so passionately seriously." Os Guiness That quote has touched me so deeply. It resonates within me like a the sounding of a bell. I so want that to be true of my life and…Read more Monday Meditation 2026-06-16
14 Days of Thanksgiving
It's no secret that my favorite holiday of the year is Thanksgiving Day. It is a day uniquely associated in my thinking of what it means to be an American. We give thanks to God for his providence, provision, and protection for this past year. Not all Americans will give thanks to God but most…Read more 14 Days of Thanksgiving
Coram Deo 