Monday morning. The moment when I was able to properly reflect upon what happened at church the day before. The thing about being a pastor is the next Sunday is always right around the corner. You need to find time to reflect upon what happened the previous Sunday so that you, your staff, and your... Continue Reading →
Not Again- The Cost of Gun Violence
Sunday afternoon. I preached in the morning and following lunch with family and friends was sitting on the back patio, making my way to the coveted Sunday afternoon preacher’s nap. The news alert came on my phone. Not Again. Another shooting, this time at the Landing in Jacksonville. I’ve been to the Landing. People I... Continue Reading →
“Can We Use Em?” When Politics and Religion End Up in the Wrong Hands
Religious leaders, politicians, and the quest for power is a toxic mix. For those who seek to claim power for themselves, religion is held in high regard as a vessel. Religion to power is a reoccurring theme throughout human history. Part of the Cohen tape that caught my attention was the President asking this questions... Continue Reading →
A Border, Two Pastors, and One God
$5,000 to $7,000 The local pastor and I were standing in view of Mexico’s border with the United States. The pastor knew the local neighborhood well. He knew the people-their joys and their struggles. For most, the biggest struggle was making ends meet for their family. Surviving each day. Our group was there building an... Continue Reading →
The Wedding Sermon: 3 Things the Mainline Church Needs to Quit
A wedding sermon Of all the things that could possibly transform the mainline church, a wedding sermon? Think of the countless hours of meetings, the dollars spent on consultants and supposed experts, the physical and spiritual labor poured out, the tears shed, the failed strategies. When all else fails, it’s a wedding sermon that saves... Continue Reading →
Thursday- A Difficult but Important Meal
I can’t help but wonder if the Passover meal that Jesus shares with his disciples seems odd to them. In Mark’s Gospel, it is the twelve disciples who seem to be the last to understand what is going on around them. Jesus has been trying to teach them about his upcoming death, but they don’t... Continue Reading →
Five for Thanksgiving: Five Things for Which I Am Grateful
2017 has been giving 2016 a run for its money when it comes to civil dysfunction. Let’s be honest; things aren’t exactly getting better in our political and civil discourse. As a Jesus follower, my predisposition is towards hope, but that’s not exactly an easy path on some days. As we slow down and prepare... Continue Reading →
Guns and the Church
“You know you are a sitting duck up there for twenty-five minutes every week. Don’t worry though, I’ve got your back.” This statement was made to me by a church member as I was walking into the sanctuary to lead worship. When he said he had my back, he pointed to the side of his... Continue Reading →
5 For the Next 500: 5 Changes I Would Like to See in the Church
It’s the beginning of the next 500 years for the Protestant Church. The first 500 really flew by didn’t they? A lot changed over those first 500 years, beginning with Martin Luther nailing his 95 theses to the door. I don’t have 95 things, but I do have a few I would like to see... Continue Reading →
