I’ve been in a season of having both the challenge of reassessing my vocational direction and identity, and the gift of reimagining both. And so, I offer this piece as, first, a way to connect with new subscribers and update those who still find value in this blog and are journeying with me (thank you!); and, second, as a way … Read More
Hell Revisited
In 2019, I wrote a post titled “Understanding Jesus’ Teaching on Hell.” In it, I admitted that “I’ve wrestled for years with the Bible’s teaching on hell and its implications,” and this is certainly still true. At that time, I also shared some quotes that had helped me the most, and now—six years later—I’d like to do the same. The last … Read More
Is Your View of the Finished Work of Christ Too Small?
“Stop helping God across the road like a little old lady.” -lyric from U2’s song “Stand Up Comedy” Over the last year, as I discontinued church planting efforts and stepped back into full-time work as a finish carpenter and contractor, I’ve had Bono’s words above echo in my mind almost daily. Yes, we sometimes participate with God as his hands … Read More
On Civility, Cancel Culture, and Abortion
I could have titled this piece “Notable Quotes and Controversies of the Last Few Weeks,” but although it would have been accurate, it wouldn’t have been very descriptive about what the quotes or controversies were about. That’s why I decided to go with the above. Additionally, as regular readers will know, I’ve often written about these topics, and they frequently … Read More
Hope for Cynics: Looking Outside Ourselves, 3 of 3
As you and I continue to work on ourselves (Part 2), Ecclesiastes 9:13-18 reminds us that even bunglers and “bungler” realities can’t diminish the beauty of wisdom, the status of the poor in God’s eyes, or the value of quiet, unsung, heroic acts of service (Part 1). This is a comfort, no doubt. But even heroic acts of service … Read More
Hope for Cynics, 2 of 3: Grappling with the Bungler
13 I have also seen this example of wisdom under the sun, and it seemed great to me. 14 There was a little city with few people in it. A great king came against it and besieged it, building great siegeworks against it. 15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered … Read More
Hope for Cynics, 1 of 3: Six Lessons from Ecclesiastes 9
13 I have also seen this example of wisdom under the sun, and it seemed great to me. 14 There was a little city with few people in it. A great king came against it and besieged it, building great siegeworks against it. 15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered … Read More
Ministry that Defies a Culture of Contempt
“Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.” -Mark 6:34, NLT We just picked up the bundle of cuteness above this week! Domino, as we’ve named her, has been a welcome distraction as I’ve continued to … Read More
What I Learned About Difficulties from Wendell Berry
I don’t know your struggles these days, but mine are centered around the question, “What does meaningful vocation and ministry look like in this season?” That’s why the quote above grabbed my attention. For those who may not be familiar with Wendell Berry, he’s an American novelist, poet, philosopher, environmental activist, and farmer.[1] At 90-years-old, he’s published “more than eighty … Read More
The Voice of Loving Favor
“In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” Ephesians 1:4-5, NIV Hey Friends, This is an update of sorts, and I’d like to ask for your prayers. After deciding to discontinue the Mantua Creek church plant in December, Pam and I have been seeking God about what my next … Read More