All I have learned through trial and error is to stay alert and aware, especially God smiling @ our silliness.

Jesus was victorious not because he never flinched, talked back, or questioned, but having flinched, talked back, and questioned, he remained faithful.

The confessing church of American Ragamuffins needs to join Magdalene and Peter in witnessing that Christianity is not primarily a moral code but a grace-laden mystery; it is not essentially a philosophy of love but a love affair; it is not keeping rules with clenched fists but receiving a gift with open hands.

As we come to grips with our own selfishness and stupidity, we make friends with the impostor and accept that we are impoverished and broken and realize that, if we were not, we would be God. The art of gentleness toward ourselves leads to being gentle with others -- and is a natural prerequisite for our presence to God in prayer.

Define yourself radically as one beloved by God. This is the true self. Every other identity is illusion.

Prayer is first and foremost an act of love

Jesus comes for sinners, for those outcast...and those caught up in squalid choices and failed dreams.