Yesterday, three people walked into our church building asking for a ride. I walked up to them, introduced myself, and told them that I would be happy to drive them where they needed to go. The problem is they didn't where they were going. They said that they wanted to go to a friend's apartment … Continue reading Where Are You Going?
On Vacation
This week my wife and I are taking our first trip together as empty nesters. And, it's a little weird. But it's a lot wonderful. Whenever I go on vacation, I am reminded of the following quote... We all need breaks from time to time, even if it's just for a day or a few … Continue reading On Vacation
Brand New
Can you believe that it's December, already?! Well, it is. And that means that a new year is right around the corner, so why not start thinking about the goals you want to achieve next year? Or the changes you want to make in your habits or lifestyle? How about ways that you can walk … Continue reading Brand New
You Are Not Stuck
Do you feel stuck? It's not a good feeling, is it? Because nobody wants to be stuck in life. We all want to feel that we are constantly moving, changing, and improving. Enter the good news about Jesus Christ, as described by Eugene Peterson in his book titled, On Living Well... _____________________________________ There is a … Continue reading You Are Not Stuck
What’s Your Brand?
In today's culture, it seems that everything is about branding. Including people. People are increasingly viewing themselves as a product that needs to branded, marketed, publicized, and sold. And so, networking with people is prioritized over truly connecting with others. Every clothing choice is seen through the double lens of style and image. Each action … Continue reading What’s Your Brand?
A Thanksgiving Prayer (for Thanksgiving Day)
Most merciful Father, we humbly thank you for all your gifts so freely bestowed upon us: for life and health and safety, for strength to work and leisure to rest, for all that is beautiful in creation and in human life; but above all we thank you for our spiritual mercies in Christ Jesus our … Continue reading A Thanksgiving Prayer (for Thanksgiving Day)
Read This, Listen to This, Pray This (Thanksgiving)
Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, this week we are being encouraged to push the pause button on our busy lives, reflect on our blessings, and give thanks for all the people and things in our lives for which we are grateful. Here's a devotional guide that will help you do that: Read This... Psalm 138 … Continue reading Read This, Listen to This, Pray This (Thanksgiving)
Sometimes, You Need to Wear Jeans
Last week, one of our beloved church members passed away. He was a good man who I was proud to count as a friend. Nearly every Sunday to church he wore boots, blue jeans, a button-up dress shirt, and a blazer (usually, a navy blue one). It was a classic look that fit his personality. … Continue reading Sometimes, You Need to Wear Jeans
Process or Outcome?
Every Sunday morning I get to the church building really early and walk through the parking lot and around the auditorium praying for the people who will show up to worship and praying that God would bring those who are longing to hear the good news about Jesus Christ. Last Sunday, as I was praying … Continue reading Process or Outcome?
Getting Better!
One night a week I facilitate fatherhood workshops for a group called TRUE DADS. Our goal is to improve outcomes for children by teaching vital parenting skills to fathers so that they can be present in their child's life in a way that is positive, productive, and healthy. In these workshops, we talk about how … Continue reading Getting Better!
rusty tugman 