One of the most painful parts of our political process is the heated rhetoric of the campaign season. Most of us are so disgusted by the vitriol of political ads that, by election day, we are willing to vote for…
VITAL SIGNS: Things Jesus never said
There are some things you will just never hear. Ever seen those lists? "Next on Jerry Springer, Two happily married couples with their normal children.” Sorry, that’s just not going to happen. Or maybe you've seen the list of comments…
VITAL SIGNS: Everyone needs to go to Arabia
One of the pressing concerns of 21st century individual and congregational spiritual life is the question of depth. To be blunt, there isn’t much. Study after study has revealed the sad truth that much of what we call faith and…
VITAL SIGNS: The 20-year test
There is a school of thought running rampant in congregations these days that sounds something like this: “This is the worst Pastor/Group/Recession/President/Situation/ Era/Event that we have ever known! We must get rid of him/her/it/them immediately or we are doomed.” As…
VITAL SIGNS: A good word about preaching
Healthy churches hear good preaching. Few would disagree with such a statement. However, the definition of good preaching is about as easy to agree upon as is good taste in fashion. Our definition of good preaching usually reflects our point…
VITAL SIGNS: Bringing good from evil
In the midst of the pandemic of conflict swirling through local churches in the 21st century, it is tempting to lose heart. Many do. I have had heartbreaking conversations with scores of clergy and laity who have emerged from bruising…
VITAL SIGNS: When conflict turns ugly
One of the saddest truths I have come to understand about conflict in congregations is how destructive it can be. Years of progress and effective ministry can be negated by unhealthy conflict. Careers can be ruined, faith and hope in…
VITAL SIGNS: Assessing conflict in churches
So what do we make of the rising tide of conflict in local congregations? First of all, is there actually an increase in conflict? Anecdotally, the number of calls and conversations we are having around conflict seem to indicate that…
VITAL SIGNS: Jason’s upside-down world
If asked to identify a favorite New Testament character, most of us go with the predictable and obvious: Barnabbas, Mary, Nathaniel, Peter, Lydia, Timothy, Phoebe. You know the list. Let me remind you of an obscure character who can highlight…