Category Archives: Christian Living

How Can You Vote For HER?

Posted on November 3, 2016 by pastordavesimpson

NOTE: I write this is as my own opinion, not on behalf of any church or denomination. The link to this blog from my church’s website has been removed until after the election to alleviate any confusion. While pastors are not … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity | Tagged , , , , | 26 Comments

Black Lives Matter: A 21st Century Beatitude?

Posted on September 28, 2016 by pastordavesimpson

Jesus kicked off the Sermon on the Mount with the beatitudes. “Blessed are the poor in spirit . . .” A guy on the mount interrupted Jesus. “Hey! ALL lives are blessed!” Jesus ignored him. “For theirs is the kingdom of … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity, Racism | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

The Unexpected Pastor Goes to Camp

Posted on July 19, 2016 by pastordavesimpson

What does hope look like? For me last week it looked like 70-some young people, from 8 years old through high school age, singing crazy camp songs, laughing, learning, and listening to camp stories, swimming and zip-lining and sitting in … Continue reading →

Posted in Bible, Christian Living, Christianity, Church, ELCA, Faith, Lutheran, Pastors | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

It’s Not Just About Brock Turner: The “Rape Culture” Is US

Posted on June 7, 2016 by pastordavesimpson

(NOTE: This post contains some graphic language. If you are offended by the language, I hope you are infinitely more offended by the pervasive culture of rape and sexual assault this post addresses.) Men, we have to speak up and … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Faith, Family, Father | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments

Jesus, Water Fountains, and Wedding Cakes

Posted on March 31, 2016 by pastordavesimpson

In the 1960’s, “States’ Rights” meant the “right”to discriminate against people of color. Today, “Religious Liberty” means the “liberty” to discriminate against LGBTQ folks. Advocates of both have invoked Christ. But Christ no more died on the cross so you … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity, Homosexuality, LGBTQ, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Tamir: A Confession

Posted on December 29, 2015 by pastordavesimpson

I am complicit in your death, Tamir, and in the life-negating injustice which followed. I have never feared for my children’s safety in the presence of police officers. But police officers gunned you down as you played with a pellet … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity, Racism, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments

Nothing To Do with My Savior

Posted on December 8, 2015 by pastordavesimpson

Fear provokes folks to do strange things. It inspired the president of the largest Christian University in the country to carry a handgun in his back pocket as he spoke to his students at a convocation this past Friday. He must be really … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity | Tagged , , , , , | 1 Comment

Anxiety Sucks (And So Do Panic Attacks)

Posted on December 1, 2015 by pastordavesimpson

I did something death-defying last week. At least it felt death-defying, kind of like a paratrooper with acrophobia taking the first step out of an airplane. I did it even though I dreaded what might happen, even though the apprehension of … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity | Tagged , , , , | 6 Comments

Dear Governor Hogan – Regarding Syrian Refugees

Posted on November 17, 2015 by pastordavesimpson

Earlier today Governor Larry Hogan of the State of Maryland issued this statement regarding Syrian refugees:  As governor of Maryland, the safety and security of Marylanders remains my first priority. Following the terrorist attacks on Paris just four days ago, … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Poisonous Generalizations After – and Before – Chattanooga

Posted on July 18, 2015 by pastordavesimpson

It didn’t take long after the tragic shooting deaths of five Marines for the venomous voices of generalized hate to begin their bellow. The murderer was a Muslim. Therefore all Muslims are dangerous.  Facebook and Twitter feeds filled with anger.  Damn … Continue reading →

Posted in Christian Living, Christianity, Racism | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments