I didn't preach this past Sunday, so I stood in the back and greeted people as they entered the building and helped people find seats in the auditorium. A few minutes after the worship service had started, a woman walked in, and we chatted for awhile before she entered the auditorium. But, as soon as … Continue reading You Are Loved
5 Habits of High Achievers
Productivity and leadership guru Michael Hyatt lists five essentials for healthy achievement: Rest. Practice rest by getting adequate sleep every night and avoiding work on your day off.Reflection. Start a habit of pulling away to a quiet place to pause and reflect. Slow down for as little as 5 minutes to center yourself and reflect … Continue reading 5 Habits of High Achievers
7 Things I’m Enjoying about Bi-Vocational Ministry
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
