Camino Chronicles

 It is the day before Thanksgiving, 2025, and Pastor Skip joins us for a special edition of Camino Chronicles. While the calendar says it is a time for thanks, Pastor Skip acknowledges that grief and loss can sometimes create a "vision problem," making it hard to see the beauty that remains.Sharing openly about the recent loss of his friend and dog, Sky, Pastor Skip discusses the "steep hills" we face in life—those moments when we are most tired and tempted to quit. Drawing from his experiences on the Camino in Spain, he reminds us not to stare at the steepness of the climb or the pain of the moment, but to focus on the top of the hill.The message centers on Hebrews 3 and the call to "fix your thoughts on Jesus". By keeping our eyes on Him, we can find true Thanksgiving regardless of our circumstances, because we have an inheritance and eternal life that cannot be taken away.

 It is Wednesday, December 3, 2025, and the season of Advent has officially begun. In this edition of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip takes us on a "word walk" to explore the true meaning of generosity during this time of year.While the world focuses on a "cornucopia" of endless food and drink or the "frenzy" of holiday sales, Pastor Skip challenges us to look deeper. He contrasts giving from a place of surplus with the biblical example of the poor widow who gave everything she had.Ultimately, this episode points us toward the one gift that truly matters: the Lord giving us Himself. Unlike material presents that fade after December 25th, the gift of Jesus Christ lasts all year and can never be consumed or exhausted.

In this edition of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip explores the true meaning of courage—not just as a dictionary definition, but as an active part of our spiritual lives.While Webster defines courage as a "quality of mind or spirit," Pastor Skip challenges us to move beyond simple willpower. He discusses the difference between the "worked up" courage of childhood—like jumping out of trees—and the adult courage required to face illness, danger, and difficulty.This episode unpacks the idea that courage is actually a "gift of grace" that allows us to operate without being stopped by fear. Drawing from Genesis, Isaiah, 2 Timothy, and 1 John, we learn that perfect love expels fear and that we are equipped with power, love, and a sound mind.

Life is a chronicle of the paths we take, a history of our decisions. But how do we make those choices? Most of the time, we're running on a "mysterious algorithm" built from our past experiences, making decisions almost subconsciously. But what if we could intentionally shape that algorithm for good?In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip explores the practical "how-to" of spiritual decision-making. We all love the promise of Jeremiah 29:11, but how do we navigate the lies and temptations that try to take us down? The answer isn't just in the promise of God, but in the process.Pastor Skip reveals the powerful, actionable key found in Deuteronomy 30:19-20: God has given us the choice between life and death, blessings and curses. The "how" to "choose life" is simple: "by loving the Lord your God, obeying him and committing yourself firmly to him". This is the key to your life. Learn how sowing God's word into your mind today makes it available in an instant when you need it most.

The fall leaves are beautiful, but the weather is unpredictable—shifting from sun to storm and back in a single day. In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip reflects on how these physical seasons are a perfect metaphor for the "seasons of life" and, more importantly, our "spiritual forecast".We all pass through different spiritual seasons: times of confusion, times of learning, and difficult times of doubting and testing. So how do we navigate this unpredictable journey?Pastor Skip turns to the short but powerful book of Jude , offering practical wisdom on how to "build yourself up in your most holy faith" and "keep yourselves in God's love", regardless of the external storm clouds. This episode is a powerful reminder that while we can't control the season we're in, we can always find "exceedingly great joy" in the "Son-shine" of the one who is able to keep us from stumbling.

​In an age of explosive social media, why do so many people feel invisible? This week on Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip tackles the modern identity crisis and our deep "need to be seen". He traces this feeling all the way back to the first separation in the Garden of Eden and the powerful, demanding nature of what psychologists call "the self".​While Jesus offers the perfect remedy—He sees us, He knows us, He redeems us—our hearts can still get distracted.​The episode pivots on a raw and powerful story about Pastor Skip's dear friend, a recent widower, who in a moment of deep grief told God, "I can't wait to see her again". The Lord's immediate, four-word reply was a "four-by-four upside the head" that will change your perspective: "What about me?".​This is a profound call to remember that as much as we long to be seen, the Lord yearns for us to see Him.

A walk on the beach becomes a powerful journey down memory lane. In this heartfelt episode of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip reflects on the paths we've taken and the memories we cherish, from the scent of a pine forest to the warmth of a family beach house called "The Sanctuary." Join Skip as he explores the natural human tendency to focus on the "good old days." This personal reflection then turns to a profound spiritual lesson, centered on Jesus's simple yet powerful request to his disciples: "Remember me." This episode is a beautiful encouragement to honor our past and the blessings we've enjoyed, while also lifting our eyes to the glorious future that God has promised. It's a reminder that our best days are not behind us, but are waiting just around the corner.

A walk on the beach becomes a powerful journey down memory lane. In this heartfelt episode of Camino Chronicles, Pastor Skip reflects on the paths we've taken and the memories we cherish, from the scent of a pine forest to the warmth of a family beach house called "The Sanctuary." Join him as he explores the natural human tendency to focus on the "good old days." This personal reflection then turns to a profound spiritual lesson, centered on Jesus's simple yet powerful request to his disciples: "Remember me." This episode is a beautiful encouragement to honor our past and the blessings we've enjoyed, while also lifting our eyes to the glorious future that God has promised. It's a reminder that our best days are not behind us, but are waiting just around the corner.

In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Pastor Skip explores one of life’s simplest yet most loaded questions: “How are you?”What starts as a reflection on annual wellness exams and the familiar “I’m fine” quickly turns into a powerful spiritual attitude check. Drawing from his Navy days and years of pastoral insight, Pastor Skip unpacks the acronyms behind FINE and GOOD—from “Feelings Inside Not Expressed” to “Generally Operating On Declaration.”Discover how faith transforms our mindset from fragile to steadfast. Through personal stories, Scripture-inspired wisdom, and a touch of humor, Pastor Skip reminds us that even when our bodies ache and the world feels chaotic, our souls can still be strong and well in Christ.Join us for a spiritual checkup that will leave you saying with conviction: “Sir, my attitude is GOOD—Generally Operating On Declaration that Jesus Christ is Lord.”

Welcome back to the Camino Chronicles! In the first episode of Season 2, Pastor Skip tackles one of the biggest practical and spiritual challenges for any pilgrim: the rain.What starts as a humorous and insightful guide to packing for the Camino's unpredictable weather—from cheap plastic ponchos to expensive high-tech gear—quickly turns into a profound metaphor for life. Discover why trying to stay perfectly dry is a futile attempt, both on the trail and in our daily lives.Pastor Skip shares the powerful realization that just as our bodies are waterproof, our faith can make our spirits waterproof against the storms we all inevitably face. This episode is a beautiful reminder that while we can't always avoid getting wet, we can choose to find joy, knowing we are protected by something greater. Join us and learn how to start "singing in the rain."

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip shares a message about attitude and positioning in life. He reflects on the power of changing one’s perspective, emphasizing Jesus' words "It is finished" as a declaration of victory over suffering. Skip encourages listeners to adopt an attitude focused on God's promises rather than worldly struggles. In the second part, he discusses positioning—urging listeners to seek God actively, to “get under the spout where the glory’s pouring out.” He emphasizes that by focusing on God, we align ourselves with His presence and experience the fullness of His blessings. Skip concludes with a reminder to seek Jesus, the “living water,” in prayer, worship, and the Bible.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip reflects on finding joy in the midst of difficult times. Inspired by a comic, he encourages listeners to take a break from the bad news and focus on the good news—God wins, and Jesus is victorious. Even in troubling times, we can find happiness by trusting in Jesus and embracing the joy of the Holy Spirit. Skip reminds listeners that true happiness comes from knowing Jesus is in control, and he calls for a mindset of rejoicing in God's promises despite the challenges of life.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip reflects on happiness, exploring the modern desire to be understood and valued, symbolized by phrases like "Do you feel me?" and "Do you see me?" He discusses how these sentiments reveal a deeper discontent and the importance of true happiness, or blessedness, as described by Jesus in the Beatitudes. Skip outlines nine "opportunities for happiness," such as humility, mercy, and peace, that lead to a fulfilled life. He concludes by urging listeners to yield to God for genuine joy, even amid challenging times.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip reflects on the concept of power, both physical and spiritual. He explains different forms of power—explosive, gravitational, and centrifugal—and relates them to the forces at work in the universe. Moving from science to theology, Skip highlights the futility of trying to control God's power, referencing Lucifer's failed rebellion. He concludes by emphasizing the victory of Jesus over sin and death and encourages listeners to align themselves with God's power, especially in times of turmoil and power struggles in the world.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip shares a personal story about visiting a friend in the hospital, leading to a reflection on the importance of spiritual health. While modern medicine can diagnose and treat physical ailments, Skip emphasizes the need for "spiritual analysis" through the Holy Spirit, who can reveal and help address issues within the soul. Using the analogy of medical scans, Skip explains that reading the Bible allows God's Spirit to search our hearts and uncover areas that need attention. He encourages surrendering control to Jesus, trusting in His lordship, and deepening worship, which brings peace and transformation. Skip concludes by emphasizing the value of worship and following God's way to experience true peace and closeness with Jesus.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip introduces the concept of terroir, which refers to the environmental conditions that influence the quality of wine and uses it as an analogy for the human soul. He stresses that just as grapes need good soil to thrive, our souls require proper care and nourishment to bear good spiritual fruit. Skip reflects on his boot camp experience, highlighting the importance of maintaining a good attitude during tough times, which parallels the spiritual discipline needed to endure life's challenges. He encourages listeners to actively engage in their spiritual growth by reading the Bible, participating in church, and nurturing their soul. Skip concludes by inviting everyone to his church service, where he will share a key to having a good attitude before God, while also emphasizing the importance of love, joy, peace, and laughter in our lives.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip reflects on the story of King Josiah from the biblical book of Second Kings. Josiah, who became king of Judah at eight years old, dedicated himself to obeying the Lord. At age 26, he initiated the restoration of the temple, which led to the discovery of the Book of the Law. This discovery caused a profound change in Josiah, prompting him to renew the covenant with the Lord and cleanse the temple of false idols. Skip draws a parallel between Josiah's actions and modern-day society, questioning what might happen if current political leaders embraced and followed the word of the Lord. The lesson emphasizes the consequences of turning away from God's teachings and the blessings that come from obedience.

In this episode of Camino Chronicles, Skip discusses the significance of Jesus Christ's "I Am" statements in the Bible, challenging the traditional focus on only seven of these declarations. He argues that Jesus makes at least 38 unique "I Am" statements across the New Testament, revealing profound truths about His identity and character. Skip encourages listeners to embark on a personal journey through the Bible, noting the "I Am" statements in the red-letter text to deepen their understanding of Jesus.

Listen with Skip!