The church minister occupies a unique space. It is a difficult space inhabited by critique and pressure both from within the community and from without.
Colton's Laugh
May we too continually be surprised with the moments of joy in our care that reflect God’s presence in the world!
A Chaplain's Work
There is no doubt that chaplaincy has its own share of challenges. But I have found that often our assumptions about the work of chaplaincy and the actual work of a chaplain are often quite different.
Welcome to Tapestry
With a great steering team of board-certified chaplains and a lot of interest from chaplains across the country, I’m delighted to see the initial vision to serve chaplains associated with the Stone-Campbell tradition and ACU come to reality.
An Empty House: Luke 11:24-26
Self-righteousness is simply an empty house, a risky spiritual condition that attracts all kind of demons. Our house must be filled with God’s Spirit.
Punishing to Pruning
God is wanting to yield in us a fruit of righteousness and holiness. To do that, God must prune us. Jesus talks about this pruning that God does through Him.
Just Breathe
When the weapons of anxiety, anger, stress, and loneliness are being used to disconnect me from God, it helps to remember: Just breathe.
The Complicated Task of Forgiveness
When we offer forgiveness it is not of benefit to that person, but instead we can see the true benefit to ourselves of forgiveness
There Is Something We’re Not Seeing Here…
Throughout the holiday season I’ve been in the learner’s seat for a very practical lesson, but one that has large implications. It’s time I had some classmates.
Why I am So Conflicted about Church Buildings
The church is not a building. Never has been. The church is people. But it seems like almost every community of faith I know is either trying to build or remodel a building.
Ten Top Articles of 2023
Before we look towards 2024, we’d like to take a moment to remember and reflect on some of the articles posted throughout the year.
Waiting on the Lord
Waiting is a major theme of Scripture. God is always faithful to his people… yet he often seems to keep them waiting.
Church Renewal Is Impossible Without Knowing Your Strength
Do you know what your church is actually good at? What your congregation’s core strength is? What key value underlies the heartbeat of your faith community?
Getting the Right Diagnosis
Congregational leaders can study congregational life, the decline of Christianity, and the aging of their church, yet they miss the most important thing of all.
Heaven in the Here and Now: A Holiday Reflection
No matter what feelings the holidays bring up for you, I pray you have a moment where time stands still, and the love of heaven descends upon you.
Where Do You Locate the Baptistry?
The “where” to put the baptistry really isn't that big of a deal. We will always find water. A pool. A hot tub. A stock tank. A cattle trough. We will find water.
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.
You Matter to God
Our true identity is not found in a man, or in their roles, titles, jobs, beauty, intelligence, accomplishments, or children. True identity is found in Jesus Christ. Period.
Shine Bright
Because Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12), we become a beacon when we live according to his statutes and commands and act as his hands and feet.
Servants Called and Set Apart
What kept Paul’s fire for Christ burning even in his old age? I believe it was the conviction of his calling. He knew exactly who he was and what he existed for.