Back when I was in college, I used a color-coordinated calendar to schedule assignment deadlines and test days. These days, I approach my seminary studies in a similar way. I'm a planner, through and through. I like things mapped out in advance. I like the feeling of being ahead of the game. I hate bumping up against deadlines. That said, I have no interest in finding out my own future. I’ve walked with Jesus long enough to know it’s a bad idea to try to figure out what’s coming down the pike. Here’s why: If I were informed of the good things God has in store before they Continue Reading
This Advent season, what are you waiting for?
“I’m so done with 2020!” said a friend in a recent conversation. “I’m totally over it.” If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard that sentiment since June or so, I’d be rich. (You, too?) The whole population is more than ready to put this past year to bed. It’s been a weird one. A tough one. In too many cases, a tragic one. So it’s understandable that we just want this year to go away. We want life to go back to “normal.” We want to regain what was familiar. I can’t wait to get with my extended family again. I can’t wait to go out without a mask on. I can’t wait until Continue Reading
Did the early Church provide a model for church life today?
Imagine the earliest days of Christianity, as in, book of Acts Christianity. A most unlikely bunch of folks are meeting together, testifying to the power of their resurrected Lord (Acts 4:32-35). They experience signs and wonders such as healings. They gather often, break bread together, listen to the apostles’ teachings, and meet one another’s practical needs. In fact, their love for one another is so radical that they sell their stuff to take care of each other. They are devoted. They are unified. It's amazing. Sounds fantastic, right? I’ve heard plenty of statements over Continue Reading
How to be thankful even in 2020
Out on a walk one day a few years back, I noticed a cluster of people on the sidewalk about a block from home. I knew the one couple, so I stopped to chat. As the minutes ticked by, I wondered if there might be an opportunity to talk about the Lord. After all, I’ve spent decades in church being constantly challenged to share the good news about Jesus. You know, that subtle (or not so subtle) pressure to lead people to Christ. Don’t get me wrong; I want people to receive the love of God and abundant life. Still, the temptation to count evangelistic trophies is not Continue Reading