Pastor's Weekly Musing

August 28, 2025

These are from the “Ask the Pastor” project. Please place your inquiries in the box in the narthex.

Dear Pastor,     Is there biblical evidence of life after death?

In hope,   Studying Scripture

Dear Studying Scripture,

The Book of Revelation describes several heavenly scenes of the martyrs—people who had been killed for the faith—worshipping before the throne of God. They have life after death.

One of the most moving passages in scripture to me is when Jesus tells a man crucified next to him, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” This crucified man was not a martyr. He admitted to his crime that led to his execution. Nevertheless, he was assured of life after death following his plea, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (See Luke 23:39-43).

His words have been written into a melody that we sing each month during our contemplative service (the next one will be Tuesday, September 30). “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Perhaps worship is a glimpse of the life to come.

Listen to a recording of the song here.

Dear Pastor,  Do you have any advice for spiritual discernment?

In hope,  Wondering Wanderer

Dear Wondering Wanderer,

By “spiritual discernment,” I take you to mean a process of discovering God’s will for your life or guidance in making a major decision. Let me acknowledge that the Lord’s leading can be difficult to understand; God can seem distant, even “hidden” (Psalm 88:14).

“Ask, and it shall be given to you,” Jesus promised, which I surmise was about discernment rather than physical things (apologies to Janis Joplin and her Mercedes Benz). When you pray, ensure that you are also listening. Some of my most illuminating prayers are simply focusing on my breath: inhale, exhale. “Be still, and I know,” prays the psalmist (Psalm 46:10).

I find it useful to journal. I agree with E.M. Forster, “How do I know what I think until I see what I say?” You don’t have to be an author to write your thoughts down on a page.

Augustine claimed, “It is solved by walking.” A little exercise in the beauty of creation can clear the mind and lift your spirits. You might uncover a fresh path ahead. I wonder if all who wander are not lost.

Finally, God helps us discern in a community of trusted disciples. Seek out people who might offer advice, ask questions, and (most of all) listen attentively. A friend says that spiritual direction is really about helping someone talk their way to their truth. I would be honored to be one of the people who can support you.

Let me be clear: there is no one way to practice spiritual discernment. There is no single prayer that is effective for everyone at all times. My best advice is to keep praying. Keep waiting with hope. God can seem silent, but I also remember times in my life when it seemed I had no answers, and the Lord was putting things together so that, at just the exact right time, the way for me was clear. May it be so for you.

In hope,   

Andrew

Read Andrew’s latest Go Ask Dad: “The ABCs of Back to School” HERE