Missional. It's a big buzzword in churches. Pastors love to use it. But what on earth does it really mean? Oh, buzzwords... Usually, they come and go quickly, but this buzzword is different. It's actually worth getting and keeping. The move to Missional represents an important shift in modern ministry and in our understanding of what it means to be a Christian. So what … [Read more...] about The Meaning of Missional and Why It Matters
Adjustment Period
Life feeling a little scratchy and uncomfortable right now? You may be in an adjustment period. This summer we headed to New England to visit family. We had two stops on our itinerary, one in Gloucester, MA and one in Sanbornville, NH. Both places are like home and we look forward to visiting, but for our kids (and myself), we noticed an adjustment period at each … [Read more...] about Adjustment Period
Lord, Break Through
In the dark night, When my words fail me...When light seems lost...When answers escape...When the air goes out...When the silence rings...When bodies breakdown...When surprises startle...When endurance seems impossible... Lord, break through. … [Read more...] about Lord, Break Through
Of Squirrels and Bible Lessons
To prepare a good Bible lesson, you need some squirrel-like characteristics. Scamper. The initial phase of any lesson prep is surveying. This is an important part. The more you survey the less likely you are to wind up in some dead end. In English class, they sometimes call this phase of paper writing simply "finding a topic." To do this, you must survey lots of verses, … [Read more...] about Of Squirrels and Bible Lessons
Interruptions
What do you consider an interruption? Your answer will reveal your values. If you gravitate towards tasks, then phone calls and unexpected visits can feel like interruptions. If you gravitate towards people, emails and tasks can feel like interruptions.We don't like interruptions. They seem like distractions from our mission. But interruptions serve an important … [Read more...] about Interruptions