If we truly believe that the Gospel of Jesus is good news, then it only makes sense that we would orient our lives in such a way as to see the world and others through this lens.
All tagged conversation
The Spiritual Discipline of Asking Questions
Jesus was quick to keep questions on the forefront of the disciples’ minds. He allowed questions to create space for people to discover, collaborate, discern and commit themselves more to His Spirit and Truth so that they could know more about themselves and about God.
Speaking Truth to Power
In ministry, there are times when we have to speak truth to power. We see amazing examples of this throughout Scripture: Nathan confronting David on his sin with a story, the three telling Nebuchadnezzar they wouldn’t bow down, Jesus conversing with Pilate…. But we must do so knowing that we don’t always know what the outcome will be.
Be the Last to Speak
Ministers may think that they want honest input or feedback, but their actions speak otherwise. When a leader asks for input but then immediately shares their own opinion before receiving feedback, it can create several potential dynamics—sometimes positive, but mostly negative if it happens too often.
Pocket Phrases
The intent of these little pocket phrases is simply to equip you with a diplomatic way to open the lines of communication and to acknowledge that everyone has a point of view worth hearing.
The Way of Ink and Conversation
For many, tattoos are a way of marking one’s identity to the world. Asking about their ink is a window into their heart, to see what is most important to them.
Identity Quake
My prayer for all of us is that we are so secure in Christ’s love and acceptance, that it changes what we think about others, changes the very words we choose during the most difficult of times, with the most difficult people, and when we feel the most defensive.
Rise to the Occasion or Fall Back on our Habits?
The truth remains: if you want to be successful at anything, including communication, you must develop successful habits.
Simple and Holy
Even in the shallowest of conversational waters, people are hesitant to talk to each other. The big and small conversational fears are seriously paralyzing us.
Airplane Conversations
These conversations were gifts because, though strangers, we were able to connect as humans despite the vile history.
Love: It’s Time to Get to Work
Reflecting on years of teaching young students, I am reminded of exercises captioned “Listen and do.” Might this be a simple, yet awfully mature, set of ancient instructions?
Unleash the Awesome
I’ve promoted myself from the communication evangelist to the unleasher of the awesome. The promotion is well deserved, not because of my awesomeness, but because of yours.
Your Silence Will Not Protect You
When are you keeping quiet when you suspect something isn’t working, and why?
The Theological School of My Living Room
My articulate and intellectual preparedness is challenged the moment my kids ask a pointed question like, “Do cats like to swim?”
The Power of Reaching One
In our day, it’s very easy to stand behind a computer and think that’s ministry. Of course that’s part of it, but when that’s all we do, I think there’s a problem.
For Shepherds Who Are Facilitating Gender Inclusion, Remember to Talk About Jesus
No matter what complex question was thrown at him, Jesus remained laser-focused on love and redemption.
For Elders Who Are Facilitating Gender Inclusion, Get Ready for This Conversation
Authority was a pervasive concern as I talked with those who were upset about gender inclusion. “The man has to be the leader,” I kept hearing.
Please Hear My Voice
There exists a group of people who feel like they are not being heard. Not being listened to. Not being welcomed into the kingdom of God in the way God intended.
God in the Backseat
Here are a few things I’ve learned while driving for Lyft, as God showed up in my backseat.
Spiral of Silence
Have you been in a small group discussion but felt unable to give your opinion?