If there is one criticism that’s levied against Christians more than any other, it’s that we’re judgmental. That we’re morally superior and hypocritical. To be sure, part of this criticism is unfair. Oftentimes, the whole Church gets lumped in with the horrific stances of some fringe groups that could only loosely be identified as Christian. … Continue reading Are There Times When Christians Should Judge?
If you pay attention to the news (or even just your newsfeed), then you probably know that a recent measure in the New York State Senate has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. The bill expands access to abortion. This conversation is always accompanied by very strong emotions--and rightfully so. What we’re talking about is the … Continue reading How To Approach The Abortion Conversation
In today’s culture, authenticity is something of a cardinal virtue. Gone are the days when being known for “having it all together” is an appealing quality. And I think that’s a good thing. Looking like you have it all together when you really don’t is disingenuous. In a world full of reality television, we crave … Continue reading What is the “Virtue of Authenticity” All About?
At age 19, I sensed God calling me into pastoral ministry. I’ve never doubted that calling from the time I first became convinced of it. But it’s taken so much learning and growing to get to a place where I just now feel that I’m coming into my own. I’m beginning to grow into the … Continue reading 8 Roadblocks That Keep You From Your Calling
I’m going to let you in on a little known secret among pastors and church leaders. Youth pastors get to have all the fun. Pastors in student ministry get to go to summer camp, amusement parks, and on beach trips. Youth pastors eat pizza at midnight with students. They play all the latest video games. … Continue reading 3 Reasons Why Youth Pastors Are Real Pastors
With the Christmas season upon us, it’s time to break out all our decorations. The tree. The stockings. The garland. And, yes, of course, the nativity scene. I love my nativity scene. I got it in Bethlehem when I visited Israel a couple years ago. And I don’t only pull it out during Christmas. It … Continue reading Why I Don’t Think Jesus Was Born In A Stable (And Why It Matters)
Thanksgiving is here! For us, that means a bit of a fuller schedule and a whole lot of food. (We’re a fan of the food.) But this is the time of year when we become more intentional about coming together with friends and family to celebrate and be thankful for all God has provided. But … Continue reading 5 Ways To Cultivate A Lifestyle of Thankfulness
Early on a Friday morning, I noticed that I had missed a call from the administrative assistant at my church while at the gym. I figured I could call her back as soon as I got home. But before I could walk in the door, I received another call from someone on our pastoral team. … Continue reading What To Do When Tragedy Strikes Your Community
It’s no secret that we live in a culture of “recreational outrage.” People seem to genuinely enjoy becoming upset and annoyed in a very public way--whether on social media or otherwise. (But mostly on social media.) It’s also true that in order to avoid criticism, “say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” So in any age, … Continue reading How To Respond To Your Haters In A Healthy Way
I know I’m a bit late to this dance, but recently there has been a lot of talk in evangelical circles about the topic of social justice. Not much of it has been very encouraging. In fact, one evangelical leader even drafted a statement to refute what he calls the “most subtle and dangerous” threat … Continue reading 5 Reasons Every Christian Should Care About Social Justice
