I understand that even the best athlete can only go so far on their own. Natural ability, the desire to win and dedication is not enough. Sooner or later, every athlete needs the aid of a knowledgeable and talented coach.
Most churches in America are declining but some are thriving. I visited four churches thriving in the midst of decline.
Richard Avery describes the church in a song: “I am the church! You are the church! We are the church together! All who follow Jesus, all around the world! Yes, we’re the church together!”
Something happened to those two disciples. Something happened to me and something happened and is still happening to so many others.
So, how should we respond to those in need? One reaction would be to ignore them. After all, you didn’t cause their problems. A better response would be to pray and hope their situation will improve. You could send a check or volunteer with a group involved in helping others. All appropriate but as disciples of Jesus Christ, we are challenged to “do more” through the love and grace of almighty God.
Recent events have been traumatic for The United Methodist Church I love and serve. Churches which have called themselves United Methodist for many years have been breaking away in a movement called disaffiliation. The disagreement primarily centers around issues concerning human sexuality. In advance of the upcoming General Conference in Read more…
Too much busyness and not enough listening is like your car getting stuck in the mud. You push on the accelerator and the wheels turn faster. The roar of the engine, the mud flying in all directions and the smoke rising are all signs of frantic activity but the object of all the activity, namely your car, is going nowhere.
“20/20” media treated this as an “Ah Ha” moment suggesting that no one who is Christian and certainly not a minister’s family could ever do something like this. This was news and evidence that proves Ministers are not perfect. Church people are not perfect. I could have told them that.
I saw an ad for a company that will deliver and throw a pie in the face of anyone chosen. Does that sound crazy? Picture this: A well-tailored and arrogant preacher comes to the door. A delivery person is there with a special package just for him. Is it a gift? The delivery person with a big smile on his face, opens the box…
A few years ago, Mell and I moved from a three-story house full of furniture, mementos and stuff to a small condominium less than half the size. So, in addition to the normal stress and strain of moving we also faced a serious dilemma. How do we reduce our possessions by more than 50%?