What I Learned from Kids Who Survived Cancer
My youngest daughter, Tiffany, has survived a brain tumor. Between age 1 and age 23 she underwent four brain surgeries, two by the famous brain surgeon, Dr. Ben Carson who authored the book Gifted Hands (a must read). Tiffany has a heart for hurting people. A few times a month she takes he dog, LuLu, to the hospital to visit patients. She often makes cookies for men from a rescue mission that we bring to o

How an Improv Class Improved my Preaching and Enhanced my Life
Drew Carey hosted a TV show called Whose Line is it Anyway that ran for several years until 2006. You can still see re-runs on cable. The show, based on what is called ’short-form’ improv, included four characters, most memorable being Wayne Brady. They would take suggestions from the audience and would create characters, scenes, and songs on the spot. The few times I watched it

Is the Best Term “Christian” or “Follower of Christ?”
As a pastor of a mid-sized church, I try to read broadly enough to understand the current Christian vernacular. My current read, Deep Church, unpacks the terminology of emerging/emergent church and those that think more traditionally and suggests an in-between position. I recommend it. Through my reading, I’ve noticed the past few years that the church’s vernacular seems to be in

Is Propositional Truth Passé?
At a recent church leadership conference, I heard an author criticize those who believe in propositional truth. This speaker built a straw man and then tore it down with arrogance and a dismissive spirit. He even made a comment something like, “Those who teach and believe this stuff are misguided, misplaced, and downright wrong.” He accused those who believe in propositional truth of making propositions and then beating the (heck) out of people. Interesti

Does Social Media Hinder or Help Community in the Local Church?
I just had a great conversation in the doctoral seminar I’m attending at Trinity Seminary. Dr. Bill Donahue, Willow Creek’s guru on small groups is teaching the seminar. We talked about whether or not real community can happen through social media (facebook, twitter, etc). He didn’t have an answer, but here are some thoughts that surfaced. The verdict is still out as to whether or not social media helps or hinders community. Recently in a