I often get asked about my favorite verse, passage, or book of the Bible. Admittedly, I don’t have a quick answer. It seems that whatever I happen to study becomes the “favorite” at the time. If I’m teaching or preaching through one of Paul’s letters, then it’s one of Paul’s letters. If I’m reflecting on … Continue reading
When I began in ministry I had a romanticized view of myself. Entering seminary, I thought way too highly of myself and had grand expectations. Some friends of mine are well known “celebrity” pastors where every ministry program they create or support becomes the next big thing. I knew that was how God would bless … Continue reading
“Food is a privilege. It’s a privilege to eat.” “Really?!” Lines from a recent conversation. True story. As I heard the lines, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I didn’t really know how to respond except, “Really?” People in our modern American society seem to treat food as a privilege. We watch obesity rise, … Continue reading
What’s your role as a disciple? Is it to listen, observe, learn, or work? Maybe, it’s a combination of all those things. Growing up in churches, I attended “discipleship classes” most of my life. We went through class after class of rote memorization, platitude, idealism, and theory of the Christian life. It produced results. As … Continue reading
One of the focuses of my ministry as a pastor and a chaplain is crisis-care. I’m privileged to walk into some of the worst experiences people face and help them navigate through the turmoil. I don’t pull them out, make their decisions, or set them straight. I simply allow them a moment of clarity to … Continue reading
Although the post focuses on Communion, the intent is not Communion. Communion is used as a backdrop for a deeper question of Christian response to culture. Seminary graduation brought freedom. Freedoms such as time, energy, and no longer being part of a theological bubble. One of the greatest freedoms was the ability to study a … Continue reading
My wife and I were recently having a conversation about communicating with one another. I made the statement that I’d prefer text messaging to talking on the phone. When asked about what if the message needed more than 140 characters, I stated to summarize whatever to 140 characters or less. Although sarcastic, there’s probably a … Continue reading
The Inauguration ceremonies are over and crowds left for home. President Obama begins his second term chasing the vision for America he believes will put the country in the best position for the future. Regardless of your opinion, belief, or worldview, he is still the man God placed in the White House. On Monday, our … Continue reading
I was recently asked a thoughtful question. If we treated other people’s homes the way we treat our church building would we be invited back? The question prompted a good conversation which eventually led to a bigger question. What do our attitudes about church campuses say about our attitude of God? In his book, The … Continue reading
An often quoted saying of Jesus comes from the Gospel according Mark when Jesus is asked about the greatest commandment. He replies to love the Lord with all of one’s heart, soul, and strength. He then adds the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself (Mk 12:30-31). It’s a passage full of … Continue reading
