Author Archives: Bob Bjerkaas

A Lesson from a WWI Chaplain: “Woodbine Willie”

Posted on June 28, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

In saying goodbye to a beloved friend (Judy Butler – who is doing quite well in Maryland), I met a new friend.  In downsizing to fit into her new retirement lodgings, she was leaving a considerable collection of books behind.  … Continue reading →

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Name Recognition and Christian Ministry

Posted on June 13, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

Branding our churches, ministries, and even personalities in Christian, vocational service is a thing.  Really.  And it is an important thing.  If you want to publish a book, Christian publishing companies want to know how many friends you have on … Continue reading →

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A NEW TRANSLATION?

Posted on May 31, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

There is a story I have been told that may verge on the apocryphal.  I have heard that one of my emigrant Norwegian Great-Grandmothers was somewhat distressed when her Norwegian Lutheran Church in Minnesota switched from using the Norwegian Bible … Continue reading →

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Work in Heaven!

Posted on April 3, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

Ministry, like life itself, is full of odd coincidences.  The lines of our lives, interests, or efforts intersect in strange and wonderful ways that often surprise.  I love to be surprised in my work – if the surprises are nice, … Continue reading →

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Examining Ourselves

Posted on March 15, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

A couple of times a month I am able to sit back in my wonderfully comfortable office chair and read through the most recent couple of issues of Christianity Today and World Magazine.  Keeping abreast of the ‘goings-on’ of the … Continue reading →

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Love Rejoices with the Truth

Posted on January 31, 2019 by Bob Bjerkaas

Some years ago friends of ours introduced us to a new television series; Psych became a family favorite!  The main character in that comedy is Shawn – an incredibly observant guy who pretends to be psychic in order to work … Continue reading →

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What Color Are Your Glasses?

Posted on December 28, 2018 by Bob Bjerkaas

The idea of wearing “rose colored glasses” is ubiquitous in the English speaking world.  This idiom is found in everything from literature and music to our everyday conversations.  And everyone knows that the one looking through rose colored glasses is … Continue reading →

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Prepare Ye The Way! An Advent Invitation

Posted on November 29, 2018 by Bob Bjerkaas

The Advent season has begun!  Our calendars are up on our fridges or pantry doors.  Lights will begin showing up on our neighbors houses.  Trees will be decorated in our living rooms.   Travel plans will be made, gifts bought and … Continue reading →

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Understanding Addiction: Mr. Toad and the Motor Car

Posted on November 14, 2018 by Bob Bjerkaas

Every year I develop a reading plan.  As some of you know, I try to read two books a week.  Typically I am busy reading one book that relates to my current ministry research – whether it is a commentary … Continue reading →

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‘Cause I Have a Soul

Posted on October 3, 2018 by Bob Bjerkaas

‘Cause I Have a Soul   (A silly musing for my congregation!)     Today I read in World magazine, Of a truly gifted rhyming machine. Called ‘Deep-Speare’ – ‘twas named for the bard, It writes poems; but that’s not … Continue reading →

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