Over the course of the last week, I had the privilege of speaking to two vastly different groups about the urgent need in the church for restorative grace for pastors. The first was a gathering of seminary students in St. Louis, at Covenant Seminary. The second group was mostly made up of seasoned pastors from … Continue reading A Good, Hard Look at Ourselves – for pastors, ex-pastors and other Church leaders.
The Thankful Pastor – Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 2
Years ago, when I was pastoring, I asked one of the ladies at our church to create a banner around the Latin term “Sursum Corda.” She did a fabulous job, visually depicting the concept of what the term literally means: “Up with Your Heart!” Hanging for all to see at the front of the church, … Continue reading The Thankful Pastor – Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 2
The Door – A Brief Departure from the Serious Pt.3
Another installment of humor from the kitchen door (even though we don't have one anymore) meant to lighten our souls for a moment. Enjoy!
“Once Upon A Time…Sabbath!” Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 1
“Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life” is a series in which I would like to explore some of the key ingredients to living and serving well. I make no claim that these are the exclusive paths towards healthy pastoring, nor do I have the corner on insights in these areas. But I am drawing from what … Continue reading “Once Upon A Time…Sabbath!” Patterns for Healthy Pastoral Life Pt. 1
The Restoration Tree – a Parable for Exited Pastors
“Finally, brothers,rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” – 2 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV) “I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.” – George … Continue reading The Restoration Tree – a Parable for Exited Pastors
Back to Jesus Alone
I heard this wonderful piece recited at a recent conference by my friend, Peter Reid. Peter is connected with Lamplighters Ministry, and was the featured speaker. I asked him to send it to me, and I am pleased to share it with you. It reflects the yearning of my heart on many occasions. I trust … Continue reading Back to Jesus Alone
Isolation and Loneliness – the Danger Zone for Pastors
“It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). We are all familiar with the typical questions pastors get asked – “How big is your church? What’s your annual budget? How many services do you have?” But there is one question that pastors rarely get asked: “How many true friends do you … Continue reading Isolation and Loneliness – the Danger Zone for Pastors
The Exited Pastor’s Golden Opportunity
“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.”- 1 Timothy 4:16 As part of my duties as a ruling elder in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, I regularly witness ordination exams. We gather at our presbytery meetings and grill the new candidates for … Continue reading The Exited Pastor’s Golden Opportunity
Exited Pastors: The Ruined Landscape
I have lived through hurricanes. When I was much younger, growing up in Florida, there were several times when my family huddled together in our boarded-up home, lighting candles when the power went out and listening to the fury of the passing storm. Once the “all clear” was given, we would step outside to survey … Continue reading Exited Pastors: The Ruined Landscape
Peter’s Story – an encouragment to pastors
In the course of keeping up with all the blogs, articles and postings on Facebook regarding the state of today’s pastors, I am noticing a trend. Most of what I am reading lately can be summed up into two groups: the “here’s the list of things that a pastor should do (or not do) to … Continue reading Peter’s Story – an encouragment to pastors