I’m Paul Burkhart. Currently residing in Philadelphia, I was born and raised in Dallas, and went to VCU in Richmond, VA. I work as a Case Manager in social work with those receiving treatment for opiate addiction while pursuing my Masters in Social Work. I have a Masters of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary and serve Resurrection Church Philadelphia as the Interim Youth Director.
On this site, I wrestle with my God while He wrestles with me. I hope my feeble words help draw you to Him and encourage you in life’s deepest endeavors. I also write about books, politics, art, and culture. Thanks for visiting, and I look forward to your comments.
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“I once described faith as something I got on my shoe and can’t kick or wash off. I’m stuck with it. My poems are the trespasses and blasphemies of a malpracticing Christian, one who can’t stop ogling an attractive leg, or wanting to be first, who is venial, foolish, seldom at peace…and so far from the kingdom of God that his whole life becomes the theme of that distance. It’s the perfect place to be, where you can’t fool yourself into thinking you’re on the right track… The only thing I have to offer God is my sins. I am interested in mercy when it appears in places where you would never expect it. I am interested in love that shovels shit against the tide. I am interested in grace…. It is better to be annihilated and crushed by God, if you are in love with God, then it is to have no relationship at all. Better God smite you than merely be absent. God does not ‘tolerate’ me. God loves me.”
— poet Joe Weil
the long way home 