101 things to say before the offering (36)
In the gospels, Jesus is put on the spot to pay the temple tax. He doesn’t try to get out of it. Instead, he instructs Peter to go fishing, and…
101 things to say before the offering (35)
We don’t give to earn something. We have already been rewarded with Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. What type of thank-you note is adequate for that kind of gift? We give…
101 things to say before the offering (34)
Generosity begins with obedience. As citizens of God’s kingdom, we have a responsibility to be obedient and give. God then takes our obedience and transforms it into generosity of spirit….
101 things to say before the offering (33)
A marionette is a kind of puppet. When you pull its strings, the arms and legs move. In fact, you can make a marionette dance any way you like if…
101 things to say before the offering (32)
When we give, we show the world who God is, and we carry out our responsibility to care for God’s creation. Giving is part of our vocation as Christians. So…
Waves of ministry
For Christmas, Santa brought my son Anki Drive. It’s a modern twist on slot cars, where two cars zip around a magnetic track controlled by your iPhone. The phone automatically…
Virtuous Circle (part 3)
To recap the previous two posts, the virtuous circle is comprised of scripture, stories, archetypes, relationships, and the elements. Regardless of where you experience the most success or the ways…
THE SMILERS AND THE WALLOWERS
I’ve always hated how some church leaders use themselves as examples of godliness, happiness and success. Jesus promised joy (John 16.22), but he rarely pointed to himself as an example…
Virtuous Circle (part 2)
Renewing your mind means changing the way you think. It means having your mind washed out, trading the mind you have now for something better, something cleansed and renewed by…
Virtuous Circle (part 1)
In the first century, followers of Jesus were called disciples, from the Greek word methetes. A methetes was a learner, not only of their teacher’s thoughts, but also of their…
FANCY PASTORS
When I was growing up there was an abundance of preachers with huge tie pins, gold cufflinks, and swoopy hair. I used to think these were people who loved the…
RELATIONSHIPS IN MINISTRY
“Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king; his throne is made secure through love.” Proverbs 20.28 Ministry is predicated on relationship. We have no leverage with our people except…