A Robust Theology of Suffering
Work was slow and I wondered if I would have to find a new job. I didn’t know how I’d pay my bills. And I was sleeping for the moment in a friend’s guest room because I didn’t have … Continued
Evil Wisdom
The lead pastor of a fast-growing congregation is a charismatic speaker, a strong leader. He really knows his Bible! But he believes his ideas are almost always best. Some staff members feel like he never listens to them. When conflict … Continued
Listening to People’s Stories
At bedtime most nights, I read to my wife. A few nights ago I read her these words. “Look at these woods,” said the bear, and Bubber tried to, but they wouldn’t stay still… He could hear a thousand … Continued
A Friend at Midnight
The kids were down for the night and my wife was sewing when I wandered into the craft room. “I don’t know what to make of this,” she told me, “but for the past hour Paulette’s been heavy on my … Continued
Traveling Light
I glanced back toward the door. “Is the rest inside?” “This is it. I like to travel light.” That was it? Everything they owned‑‑in two suitcases and a box? “Okay,” I said. I drove them home‑‑Patricia, her deep brown … Continued
When Being Right Is Wrong
Fresh out of college, I had just moved to a new city and started attending a new church. In my new Sunday school class, where I barely knew the people, every week my stomach churned Why? Because people were … Continued
To Accomplish More, Do Less
I once led a workshop called, “When You Have More Slots than Workers.” The room had standing room only. Before beginning my presentation, I asked each person to answer the question: “Why do you think churches often have more slots … Continued
The Time Between Two Calls
I was getting to live out my dream—writing and editing full-time. I had six months of work lined up—not bad for a freelancer. But then three months went by and no more came in. Another six weeks. Still no work. … Continued
Is It Okay to Want to Be #2?
“People ask me if I want to be the CEO someday,” Jeremy shared over tacos. ”I say yes because I think I’m supposed to. But, honestly, I don’t want to be the boss. I like being number two. Is there … Continued
Why I Changed How I Pray
I’ve been tired a lot lately. After an illness last year that involved a couple of surgeries, I’m feeling stronger, but nowhere close to being able to work full-time again. For weeks, my number one prayer request was for … Continued