It was over a year ago, in a conversation with a church-consulting colleague that I had one of those rare light bulb moments. An idea popped into my mind on a book angle—one I believe could tap into the imaginations of church leaders/Christians. Critiquing major ecclesial voices who are speaking for God’s kingdom, it will […]
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Bridging the Post-Christian Chasm
In a new faith-ventured role with a youth outreach ministry called Tree House (based in Minnesota), a friend emailed me describing a multiplicity of burdens the youth are carrying and shared details of one troubled scenario, “There is one teen in particular who has come over a couple of times trying to challenge me with […]
Continue readingGain Heart for God’s Call
Living in Southern California, we have famous theme parks in driving distance. The last time we were at Knott’s Berry Farm, my wife and two boys had gone on most of the big rides except one. Late in the night, we stood sizing the Xcelerator ride, and from sheer intimidation, we passed. Leaving the park, […]
Continue readingGod’s Globes
It’s that cinematic celebration time of year again. We are now only days away from the Oscars. I watched its precursor, the foreign press’s Golden Globes. Did you tune in? I enjoy these cultural events; there always seems to be something worth noting. And no different this year—it arrived from the words of George Clooney. […]
Continue readingMission Atrophy
I played football at Long Beach State University. A walk on, I fought my way up from the bottom rungs of the depth-chart to second string status; that is until I blew out a knee in the final Spring game. Ouch! It wasn’t the worst kind (medial collateral ligament tear), but it did require the […]
Continue readingPastor Survival Tip: Wingin’ It!
When consulting pastors, I often sense a need for alternative outlets. It was during my own journey through the valley, when my church involvement was at its lowest ebb, that God taught me something really big about church survival. Here’s how it happened. I recall volunteering at Sandals Church for about a year (by the […]
Continue readingBoycott “Christ-Like” – Part II
In follow-up to my “Boycott Christ-like” blog, I received a comment that too many use the term “Christian” improperly as well. Certainly, this is true. Many “cultural Christians” are not believers. Yet I found myself wanting to add a clarification to his comment that is important. A Christian is one by faith, not behavior. Otherwise, […]
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