2018 has been giving 2017 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 →
5 Simple Ways to Create a Better Church Experience
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 →
“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 →
The Widow’s Might
Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I assure you that this poor widow has put in more than everyone who’s been putting money into the treasury.” Mark 12:43 Admittedly, I have a habit of associating much of what happens in the world with the Biblical story. This past weekend I managed to tie... Continue Reading →
New
Danny, we will start in the deuce court. I’ve made three major changes in my life in the few months. First, I begun a new ministry with the Pension Fund of the Christian Church. Second, our family relocated to Carmel, Indiana Last, but not least, I started tennis lessons- at the intermediate level. We've... Continue Reading →
The Work of Christmas
This appeared today as the Christmas Day devotion for my congregation. Sandy Springs Christian Church. The child is here, and through him the whole world rejoices. I think we love Christmas Day so much because the world stops. We have some time to simply be. What a wonderful gift! Tomorrow, life will begin again, in... Continue Reading →
No More Apologies (or Labels)
"Oh, I'm not that kind of Christian." I have uttered those words more times than I can count. As a child, playing with neighbors, in the halls of middle and high school, in social gatherings in college, in offices I've worked in, and now, as an ordained minister, seemingly to most every person I meet.... Continue Reading →
