According to ancient philosophers, all things are made of four elements: earth, water, air, and fire.But what are the elements that make up life in church? What’s the deal with things like communion, baptism, singing, and preaching?How is it that God invites us to...
Same as the old boss?Not exactly.In United Methodism, local pastors (like me) are supervised by what we call District Superintendents. A DS functions essentially as a pastor to pastors -- and as a listening ear to congregations who may not be enamored with their...
According to Hebrews 11:6 . . . And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.One lesson we draw from that marvelous verse is this: God loves to be...
In honor of Wimbledon, this week's Top Five list has to do with the sport that has made up so much of my life.And in honor of the fact that I don't really play anymore, this post also honors some people I used to play with. Back when I played, that is.So here are the...
I'm glad the people of Good Shepherd don't hear only my voice. This past weekend is a good case in point.On Friday night and Saturday morning, we hosted our First Step membership exploration class. About twenty-five hardy souls came out for the experience.Except I had...
"I am so glad we have spent June in the book of Haggai and in the series "The Comeback Kids."People have seen how the bible's story intersects their own story; time and again, folks have told me that they came to church this month desperately in need of a...
The Body of Christ in Charlotte is reeling this week over the tragedy at Christ Covenant Church.In a perfect storm of teenage exuberance, foul weather, and well-intentioned adults, this happened:Day at church camp turns tragic for teen struck by ATVEvan Wolfe, 15,...
There is a major difference between observing ministry and owning it.All too often in contemporary church settings, people do a great deal of observation.They observe the band as it leads in music. They observe the preacher as he or she delivers a message. They...
Having spent the better part of the last two days in Chapel Hill for Riley's pre-enrollment orientation, I have now been officially exposed to all the latest jargon from the world of academia.Riley has received orientation in how to be a college student while I have...
I told the people of Good Shepherd yesterday about one of my first prayers ever.Now: I had prayed the Lord's Prayer many times as a young boy. I also had the occasional "God is great, God is good, let us thank him for this food" before meals.But this one was heartfelt...