As we endeavor to correct unconscious bias and ultimately lean into what it means to be more Christlike, I invite you both personally and in your faith communities to consider the following three statements.
“The Black Swan” by Nassim Nicholas Taleb
The most profound experiences in our ministry and lives will be tiger attacks – that is, things we could never see coming. (Nonfiction)
Serving in a Surviving Church
What can a graying congregation in a shrinking rural community do?
Things, New and Old: A Reflection on Wineskins
It may be that we have let our love of old things get in the way of our love for the creative power of God breaking into our world.
Leading Your Church Through the Pandemic
This global pandemic doesn’t have to wreck your church, but it will reveal your church’s latent leadership strengths or weaknesses.
“The North Water” by Ian McGuire
The North Water by Ian McGuire is by no means a Moby Dick knockoff, but let's just say it partakes of the mood and spirit of that great novel. (Fiction)
Learning to Walk
In the wake of major life disappointments, the waves of doubt can threaten to disorient even mature believers.
Music Books by Anthony Tommasini, Vivien Schweitzer, and Philip Glass
For those of you who love classical music, or for those who are looking for a gateway to find out what it is about, let me suggest three books. (Nonfiction)
The Transformation of Don Quixote
I often wonder if the modern church is an adaptation of Christianity. Has the church modified Christianity in such a way that it does not look like the original masterpiece?
The Complexity of COVID-19 for Churches
Should your church cancel worship services and other corporate gatherings? Here is how we are thinking through that question at my church.
It Is Well With My Soul
Here it is: the obstacle that pushes the disciples’ faith too far. The obstacle that ushers in helplessness and panic.
“Little Faith” by Nickolas Butler
The true-to-life paradox plays an important role in the novel: as Shiloh grows increasingly devoted to her Christianity, her relationship with her parents grows increasingly fraught. (Fiction)
Three Things to Remember About the Bible
Whether you are an elder, preacher, teacher, or parent, God’s leaders use and refer to Scripture.
Articles for the Season of Lent
I invite you to explore this collection of Lenten articles and sermons from the Mosaic archives.
What Are You Becoming?
If we are not any different today than we were when we committed ourselves to Christ, then chances are we have not been growing.
“American Kingpin” by Nick Bilton
The story of the chase and capture is far more interesting than any piece of fiction is likely to be. (Nonfiction)
A Journey of Inclusion (Part 1)
Inclusion means that the congregation embraces the inherent value in all voices and seeks to make them an active part of the whole.
“The Abstinence Teacher” by Tom Perrotta
Perrotta is one of the more astute observers of modern American mores and the tensions that arise when neighbors’ ideas of right and wrong come into conflict. (Fiction)
The Black Mamba: Lessons from and Tribute to Kobe Bryant
Bryant models to us that leaders celebrate the wins of other winners, even if the win is greater than theirs.
Exploring Generational Differences in Our Churches
The important move is to encourage church leaders to more directly involve younger adults in the discernment processes of leadership.