While pastoring in Oklahoma, I would on occasion have to share something negative with an older friend of mind, whose wisdom I frequently sought. Ed would usually pause as he processed what I had told him, and then—were it truly something with potentially dire consequences for our church—would respond by quoting the pastor who preceded me …
Churches have had to make a hard pivot and move in the direction of online services in the past few weeks, that is, if they were going to continue ministering to their congregations in worship. To those who complain about not being comfortable with the concept, I understand; it’s not been easy for me, either, …
“His prudence, patience, courage and energy made him the successful pilot of the ship of state in the unchartered waters into which she was launched.” The person described here is John Winthrop, who was elected governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 17th century. Winthrop had arrived with some 400 men, women, and children, settling around …
Afraid that the creaking door might shatter the darkness outside, I gingerly open it, peeking outside, scanning the backyard. The world is still at rest, in peace, sleeping. And then, over there, a distant light, a sliver of the sun, peeks over the horizon. Soon, like a commander arriving at camp to rouse the troops with revelry, …
A few weeks ago, my oldest brother completed a grueling series of chemo-therapy treatments, including stem cell therapy. It lasted for months and months, and required him and his wife to live at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Tx. It seemed like they were there forever. It’s easy for me to write those words …