I was reminded by a crazy ostrich that I am never really in charge, that people are messy, and that this world is not my reality.
'Tis Merely a Soul Wound
The danger for a pastor or minister is that their cancers can be buried under a veneer of piety and forced pleasantness, lingering for years, festering in the shadows.
The Bible Is about God
We decided we cannot reduce the Bible down to a catch phrase, thinking it’s only one kind of book. In fact, it’s a book of books with one huge story to tell that invites us into it if we are willing.
Fishermen as Disciples
A disciple of Christ needs to find the proper balance of active fishing on the water and active preparation on the dock.
O That You Would Tear Open the Heavens and Come Down
When God "comes down" to make the world right, God doesn't just correct the problems we want corrected. God's appearance might not be so interesting when you realize what God might do.
A New Kind of Bus Ministry
what if churches sent people into the neighborhood to walk alongside the children and families surrounding them, to become the presence of Jesus in the midst of the neighborhood.
"Writing as a Way of Healing" (DeSalvo)
Have you ever considered writing your story or stories? Or perhaps thought that what happened (or is happening) to you needs expression… if only you could write.
All Alone: A Reflection on Jacob
He was left all alone. For centuries these haunting words have filled the space between human extremity and divine encounters.
The Things that Make for Peace: Making Friends with Your Emotions
My anger is less likely to seek to destroy someone else than it is to seek to destroy me. That’s one of the things I’m learning about my anger as I get to know it better.
Don, John, Juan - Jesus and Jesús
It’s important to recognize our positions of power and how we might misuse our power to serve our prejudice
Passing on Faith
Teaching our children to follow God is one of the most profound tasks we are given; indeed, it is our primary mission field.
Imbedded Thorns (and thanks to Mick)
Thanks to God's grace I was able to preach complete sermons in both first and second services at Highland this past Sunday morning.
Renewal in Your Church
Renewal begins with God’s work. And in many cases, God is simply waiting for a church and her leaders to get serious about seeking a new and vibrant day.
Spiritual Direction, Patience, and A Man Called Ove
Like fiction where the author tells us what each nod or smile means, it is a lovely image! Except, I haven’t experienced it to be true.
Beautiful Churches Built on Sacred Ground
The beauty of small churches in West Texas inspires me to remember that the Sunday assembly is not about me.
Is It Too Late to Turn Back? Reflections on the Difficulties of Change
You brace yourself for the change, you rally the forces, you organize every detail, and you convince yourself that you have created a foolproof plan for a perfect and seamless transition.
Walking the High Wire without a Net (This Sunday!)
I can't remember the last time I preached. I believe it was two years ago, perhaps longer.
A Different Style of Prophetic Preaching
I have noticed a trend toward equating "prophetic preaching" with a confrontational, rough and tough style of delivery.
Saved from Myself
God uses truly “beautiful” people from time to time, to hold up the mirror, show us our own ugliness, and save us from ourselves. Thank you, Lord.
One More Time - This Year
For a couple of weeks I will be away from my blogging position, hoping to come back strong.