So we wind up #BehindTheScenes this Sunday with a message called "The Worst Laid Plans." Together we'll see how our arranging God builds a series of reversal, coincidences, and "just happen to's" into the narrative of Esther. And we'll see how Haman's plans for...
Meaning, there's a reason in addition to the simple truth that the bible is, in fact, a library. But when you realize it is a library, you are better able to read and interpret it literarily. I say that in contrast to the age-old and nonsensical question: Do you...
Scott Hughes, the host of Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way Podcast, recently interviewed me on the topic of the small group ministry model. After sharing information about our most active and most enduring groups at Good Shepherd and the latest G3 approach, I realized...
I just returned from a week long Student Mission Trip with Carolina Cross Connection. The week was filled with home repair work during the day and then spiritual encounters around the campfire by night. This was my 10th year with CCC (seven at Mt. Carmel UMC during...
Yesterday's message ... Began with one of the most enduring images from Davis family lore; Celebrated the ways that the literary choices and narrative technique of Esther's author make all the difference in the meaning of the passage; Included another teaching moment...
Through the years, as I have listened to Conference speakers talk about such subjects as avoiding burnout, staff relationships, and time management, a question kept running through my mind: Is what it took to get us where we are what it will take to get us where we...
We typically think of Grace (God's Riches At Christ's Expense) as that which saves us. We don't deserve to spend eternity in heaven, but because of grace, God sees Jesus when he looks at us instead of seeing our sin, and welcomes us into his kingdom. Even the late,...
These aren't my favorite songs ever. These are simply those songs that, whenever they come on the radio, I keep them on. Some combination of melody, rhythm, and vibe makes these sound as good as the day I first heard them. Here they are. 5. Never Been Any Reason, by...
Yesterday's message ... Had some fun with the biblical name "Bigthana" by envisioning a younger brother named "LittleThana"; Pointed out again how often the children of Israel have been subjected to genocidal rage; Explored how frustrating it is when a reward YOU EARN...
Most of you know the old chorus "He's Got The Whole World In His Hands." It's pithy, child-like, and singable. But is it true? In the face of a whole lot of evidence that looks contrary, is it true? Midway through the book of Esther, you could be forgiven for...