Journal

Author: Wade Ballou

Praying With Icons

Praying With Icons

I have been trying to write about icons since attending Betsey Malloy’s retreat at Corhaven on Praying With Icons (June 2, 2013).  I own a handful of icons.  They look nice.  But, pray with them?  Afterward, I agreed to write a reflection and it would “not...

“A Father’s Blessing”

Several weeks ago we celebrated with our son Daniel his marriage to Brittany and I was able to share the following blessing: Daniel, you have our blessing to leave our home and to make a new home with Brittany and to take with you the best that we could give you....
Waiting on the Lord

Waiting on the Lord

(to be read slowly, with much silence between the thoughts)   In John 21:3 Simon Peter said, “I am going fishing.” They said, “We’ll go with you.” Although they fished all night, they caught nothing. After being directed by Jesus,...

Opening Day

I wasn’t much of a baseball fan until the Nationals arrived in Washington. They just drew me in. Their youth and exuberance were contagious. The broadcasters helped me learn the game and appreciate the stories of individual players. Before I knew it, they were...

Jesus Lives

The sermon on Easter morning at the Falls Church Anglican began with a question which pondered why it was that Mary went to the tomb of Jesus that Easter morning. The answer centered on the love Mary had for Jesus, perhaps in response to all Jesus had done for her. I...

Stripping of the Altar on Maundy Thursday

My thoughts lingered on the stripping of the altar as the mood in the Maundy Thursday service shifted from Holy Eucharist to Gethsemane. All was cleared: left over bread and wine, communion vessels and fine linens, and candles. These items won’t be needed now....