At a time when smaller churches struggle to stay alive, one has to wonder why. I believe the reasons are complex yet simple: far too many of us are trying to serve two masters.
Helping Our Children Choose Baptism
It is a tragedy if certain children are more invited into this beautiful ritual than others are.
Episode 19: Off the Road with Willie, Johnny, and the Boys
One of the early losses due to “the fire in my bones” was my ability to travel and speak.
Remembering Your Baptism
Baptism is not merely a ritual of initiation; rather, it is an active participation in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Learning to Lead from Grace
You can lead from your strengths … but what happens when your strength wears out? It’s a flameout.
Leadership Tips from a Yogi
I learned these three principles from my yoga teacher, and I believe they are applicable to leaders and life.
From “Who Is My Neighbor?” to “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”
What does an ordained minister with a bunch of puppets and low-production quality have to offer to a hurting world?
Episode 18: Quoth the Raven, “Nevermore”
Something deep within me has made a connection between my life and this poem, a distant memory that offers a way of understanding my life.
Ministry Spotlight: Drew Baker and ElderLink North Carolina
Drew Baker shares about his ministry with the South Fork Church of Christ.
Technicolor Prophecies for Troubled Times
An open pulpit is a means of grace God has always used to reach a diverse group of people.
Eco-Justice and the Book of Psalms
Given that God reigns with justice, the implication here (and the direct command elsewhere) is that we would reign over creation as God would—justly.
The Winners and the Leaders
I share another excerpt today from chapter 9, “Which Way Did They Go? The Wisdom to Lead,” words I wrote almost two years ago.
Mentoring As a Tool for Transformation
When used in a church setting, mentoring can also be transformational and is a valuable addition to a church program.
Understanding Jesus, Understanding Ourselves
Until we understand who Jesus is, we cannot properly understand who we are. If our Christology is wrong, our anthropology will undoubtedly be flawed as well.
Where Have All the Young People Gone?
With young people, church can feel like a boat full of small holes and slow leaks. When bailing isn’t working, and you are taking on water, it’s tempting to give up.
Putting Community in Communion
Lately I have found a practice that has enhanced my sense of community as I partake. I spend my communion time looking at the people around me.
Spare the Rod and Spoil the Proverb (Part 2)
I provide this work primarily for those who may use A Life That Is Good to study or teach the book of Proverbs.
Hey, Church! Stop Joking about Being Addicted to Food
Food addiction jokes really bug me because 1) these jokes aren’t funny, and 2) food addiction is not a thing.
Leading in Church Takes a Leap of Faith
For ministers, shepherds, and members of Churches of Christ jumping out of the airplane of tradition, of ties to debt, buildings, worship practices, and justice issues, is going to take a leap of faith.
Jesus’s 12 Rules for Life (Part 2)
Treat people like they’re more than their body parts. Don’t be flaky. Practice being kind and loving even to people you think don’t deserve it. Don’t draw too much attention to yourself.