In seeking to find the essence of what it means to be an elder for a local congregation, it is helpful to focus on three things—being, doing and process—framed in three key questions.
Without Vision, Ministry Perishes (Part 1)
It is easy to talk about churches not having a vision … but I think many ministers often lose sight of their calling because we’ve gotten too tied up in our calling.
What Not to Wear, Deuteronomy, and the Clarity of Scripture
I admit that it’s easier to read a text a quickly assume we know it’s “clear teaching”; after all, the text says what it means and means what it says, right??
Without Hope or One in Christ?
But we were created in Christ Jesus for good works. Created to be reconcilers in a hostile world. Created for God’s beautiful light to shine through.
Coaching the Team
I have found my mind dwelling on the similarities between coaching and pastoring, between a team and the church.
When Insecurity Parades as Certainty
Our fear of being wrong leads us to the worst kind of wrongness—the kind that clusters and alienates.
RuPaul and the Clarity of Scripture
I’m confused these days by statements that speak of “clear Biblical teaching” about same-sex attraction.
Putting the Practical in Theology
While most of you are not academically situated practical theologians, you all participate in the practical dimensions of theology.
New Creation: Lenten Reflection
It is a profound thought. The notion that our God is capable of creating a new world. Of calling into being things that were not.
Discipling Children, Part 1: Pilgrims on a Journey
Treating children as pilgrims on a spiritual journey requires us to view children for what they are: God's image bearers.
Let's Get Real: Eating Disorders in the Church
I am asking you to get real with me. For just a few minutes, let's talk about some ways that eating disorders can hide among us.
The Sin of Sodom? (or America?)
In ancient Israel, to call a place Sodom was a major insult. I want to know why? So, as best we can let’s clear the deck of our assumptions and trace what this place/theme means in the Old Testament.
When to Quit, and When to Persevere
Quitting has become a dirty word of sorts, reserved either for the obviously lazy or morally repugnant. Especially in church and leadership circles.
He Made a Robot, and Then He Married Her (It?)
I think this kind of thing happens way more than we think. People choose to create their own reality. If life does not suit you, create the one you want.
Missional Hospitality: A Beautiful Emptying
Contrary to how it’s regarded in some circles, missional hospitality is not an outreach strategy.
I Am Not a Robot: Resisting the Quick Fix Culture
The invisible ailments of the soul and spirit can be squishy problems that resist being named or fixed.
Why the Church Needs Feminism (Part 2)
Society had always told me that, as a woman, my voice was not worth as much as a man’s.
Small Church, Big Heart
The small church can remind us that it is “we” and not just “me” in the journey of faith. The small church can provide pastoral care in natural and authentic ways.
The Privilege of Participation
Worship is a divine mystery. When we participate in leading the community in worship, we are drawn into a holy encounter.
Courageous Leadership Begins with Me
We may not often reflect deeply about how our own self-awareness plays a crucial role in the capacity to lead in our various settings.