By Molly T. Marshall I probably should have done this before my third column, but I am delighted that Associated Baptist Press has invited me to write regularly, especially since they want me to engage the craft of thinking theologically…
Better versus perfect
Recently, I heard a radio sportscaster comment on the possibility of a college football playoff system. He said a four-team playoff might be in place in the near future. His broadcast partner immediately complained such an arrangement fell far short…
One-eared Mickey
By Felicia Fox I have been in youth ministry for over 12 years. In college I was introduced to the One-Eared Mickey Mouse Model of youth ministry. I ran into it again while earning my master’s of divinity with a…
Walking spoils of war
Veterans Affairs needs an overhaul, and churches can lead the way in veteran care reform—only if they work together. I’ve wondered how the church would respond to wounded veterans’ needs. In communities across the country veterans return attempting to fight…
Jesus on strategic planning
By Bill Wilson Building a congregation’s life around a clear vision and purpose is an easy thing to believe in. Aligning that purpose with biblical teaching and witness is an agreeable notion. I seldom encounter a leader or leadership group…
Jesus on strategic planning
By Bill Wilson Building a congregation’s life around a clear vision and purpose is an easy thing to believe in. Aligning that purpose with biblical teaching and witness is an agreeable notion. I seldom encounter a leader or leadership group…
Jesus on strategic planning
By Bill Wilson Building a congregation’s life around a clear vision and purpose is an easy thing to believe in. Aligning that purpose with biblical teaching and witness is an agreeable notion. I seldom encounter a leader or leadership group…
Bringing the love back
“I love you.” It takes a relationship to a deeper level like no other three words can. Where were we when we first said the “L word?” Often couples remember this moment in their dating time together more than any…
The parable of the vineyard from the margins
By Miguel De La Torre One early morning, a certain vineyard owner sets out to hire laborers. He goes to the local bodega where laborers usually wait to be hired, negotiates a fair day’s wage and sends them to his…
Sustainable friendship a gift from God
Throughout the seasons of life, most human beings are going to be engaged in dynamic human relationships. Home, the classroom, the workplace, recreation, and church all present diverse opportunities for acquaintance and interaction. Among the thousands of people we encounter,…
Spirituality on the margins
Spirituality on the margins
By Bill Leonard Around 2 p.m. on May 26, West Virginia serpent handler/preacher Mark Randall “Mack” Wolford was bitten by a rattler at a service in the Panther State Forest. Resisting medical treatment, he returned home, surrounded with prayer. As…