About eight months ago, I joined the growing number of ministers who are choosing to take on another job while also serving in congregational ministry. Some choose to do this for financial reasons (their own or their congregation's), while others do so out of a sense of mission. For me, this decision was purely missional, … Continue reading 7 Things I’m Enjoying about Bi-Vocational Ministry
Still Grieving, But Not Without Hope
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen … Continue reading Still Grieving, But Not Without Hope
20 Years
Twenty years ago today a life entered this world. A life that increased love. A life that sparked joy. A life that brought gratitude. A life that made people smile. A life that brought people together. A life that fought hard for life. A life that demonstrated courage. A life that endured with dignity. A … Continue reading 20 Years
Well Done, Rebecca!
Today is the funeral for my best friend's mother, and I am not able to attend. I hate not being there for Randal so this is my small tribute to a woman who raised three incredible children and had an immeasurable impact on countless other children, including me. Rebecca was a wonderful woman whose faith … Continue reading Well Done, Rebecca!
Do Hard Things!
This past week, my daughter climbed over 10,000 feet to the top of Hermit's Peak in New Mexico with her cohort group at Camp Blue Haven. This is a difficult hike, and she was very nervous about doing it. But she has always wanted to make that climb ever since she started going to CBH. … Continue reading Do Hard Things!
Add Value
Recently, Jon Acuff told a story about having lunch with renowned speaker and author John Maxwell and pastor Louie Giglio. During lunch, Louie asked John this question: "What's the first thought you had this morning when you woke up?" John's reply was immediate: "I can't wait to add value to someone's life today." He went … Continue reading Add Value
Love as a Rugged Commitment
One of the people in my life who is a constant source of inspiration and encouragement is Jim Martin. I am so thankful for his friendship. Here is a recent article he wrote to urge church members to think about how we should approach this season of "re-opening"... I was getting ready to officiate at … Continue reading Love as a Rugged Commitment
Conversations
One of the most interesting things about my life experience is that people have always felt comfortable sharing their stories with me. And in the last week I have had conversations with... A family who lost a loved one. A preacher who is discouraged. Parents who are worried about the world their children are growing … Continue reading Conversations
The Best Preacher in the World
There's an old preacher "axiom" that says the best preacher in the world is probably somebody you've never heard of, somebody who is faithfully and joyfully serving a congregation that you probably have never heard of, somebody who skillfully applies the Word of God to the various seasons of life as the preacher walks with … Continue reading The Best Preacher in the World
The Power of a Confessing Community
Last week, an elder of a different congregation called for some advice on a situation he was facing, and that conversation turned into a wonderful, broader conversation on the function of elders in church and the dynamic between elders and ministers. That discussion brought to mind something I had read in this book by Paul … Continue reading The Power of a Confessing Community
