This season of quiet reflection, introspection and contrition may be the best time to consider our misunderstandings and to seek repentance, receive forgiveness and start anew. And to hear again the words of Jesus: “You have heard that it was said, but I say to you…”
Why have evangelicals sold out their professed core values – and why now?
I don’t know where to begin. In truth, I keep not knowing where to begin. The non- presidential tweets from the president and the non-pastoral proclamations from big-name pastors and other evangelical leaders continue to stagger the imagination. Last year…
Rather than ‘spiritualizing’ Mary’s song, let’s be open to its subversive message
“Mary’s Song” is a reminder that when the biblical message gets difficult (as it frequently does), the Church often “spiritualizes” the text and its subversive message.
Trusting in God’s miracle of restored eyesight – and in the miracle of modern science
I showed up for eye surgery with a faith-filled calm, trusting that come what may, God would be with me. But, I also bore the confidence that in a few days I will see, quite literally, yet another miracle – the miracle of modern science.
Slamming doors to refugees: What will it take to get our humanity back?
In 2016 the United States welcomed 85,000 refugees; so far in 2018 we have received less than 21,000. And the cap for 2019 will be the lowest cap on admissions since the program began in 1980. The secretary of state says it’s about “prioritizing the safety and well-being of the American people.” It sounds to me like the studies on generosity are still right: we’ve got too much – affluence and/or fear – to be willing to share.
For some, that cross you’re wearing may be a negative symbol
For a lot of folks these days, that cross on your necklace might as well be a neon billboard declaring that the sermon being preached to everyone you meet is saying, “We don’t want people like you in the Church.”
15 years of Preacher Camp: I can’t imagine ministry without these friends
At our annual Preacher Camp, it is pastoral ministry, with all the contextual uniqueness six churches can offer, that brings us to the table. An ancient truth, still challenging and comforting a hungry and hurting world, gives us a common hope and keeps us together.
I’m going on pilgrimage. Maybe that’s what our nation needs too
The U.S. presidency is, first and foremost, a position of spiritual leadership. Tragically, this president has wielded his spiritual influence to incite and divide.
Discovering God in a skeptic
What do you do with a skeptic who’s not so sure of the concept of God but believes the Way of Jesus should change the world? You make a deacon of him, of course! And when he dies, what do you say? How honest can you be?