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 →
Serena and the Double Standard
Serena Williams is not just a tennis player, but one of the most accomplished athletes of all time. The official during the US Open women’s final believed that she was cheating, receiving coaching from the stands. He called her character into question. When she stood up for herself, he further penalized her, citing “verbal abuse.”... 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 →
A Back to School Prayer
God of Love, A new school year begins, students, teachers, and staff filled with anticipation and with trepidation Anticipation for what will be learned, for growth that will take place, for friendships that will be developed and for lives that will be transformed Trepidation for tough assignments, acceptance by others, days that don’t go our... 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 →
Rescuing Fly Guy- A Thank You to the Church
I was the last one up in our house on Saturday. I slept so late in fact, that by the time I woke up, Mary Michael and the girls were already at the BMV. My phone rang, MM informing me that it looked like at least an hour wait at the BMV and the girls... 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 Cost of Not Taking the Bible Seriously
The separation of children from their parents at the United States border is unconscionable. The fact that this policy is being justified by the Attorney General using scripture is gross biblical malpractice. Here’s the real kicker- the Attorney General was appointed by a President who received 80 percent of the vote from Christian evangelicals. I’m... Continue Reading →
Who Would Jesus Separate?
Then Joseph got up, took the child and his mother by night and went to the United States, and upon arrival Joseph and Mary were arrested and the child was separated from them, never to be seen by his parents again.” TThank goodness, the holy family fled Herod over 2,000 years ago into Egypt and... Continue Reading →
