Have you been hearing predictions about what life will be like after COVID-19? Some church analysts are voicing grave concerns about church workers and congregations. They forecast a “crash” in congregational sustainability and in the mental health of church workers. Similar commentaries are forecasting a less prosperous, fulfilling and stable
Continue reading
“It will be okay.” That will not cut it. As an urban missiologist, I have been following our nation’s politics and civil unrest with sadness and wonder as to how, I, as a Christian, can present a fitting witness to the grace and mercy of our Lord. What words do
Continue reading
“The riot was a spontaneous overflow of pent-up aggressions.” That quote is not from a news report regarding the protests resulting from George Floyd’s tragic and senseless death in Minneapolis. It is not from a reaction to the Ahmaud Arbery killing in Georgia. It is not a report of events
Continue reading
Many missionary colleagues and I have asked about measuring success in mission. In a desire to be accountable to the church through which the Lord has called us to ministry, we measure the fruit of our activities in numbers. This may give the impression that is “bigger is better and
Continue reading
Lutheran schools in Texas did not waver when COVID-19 hit and learning transitioned to online. They have been shining lights for parents and students through the storm. Below are a few stories: Lutheran South Academy, Houston Lutheran South Academy (LSA) in Houston changed over to “Remote Learning” on March 23
Continue reading
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your interests but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV84). Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor
Continue reading
I have no idea what the Lord has in mind. Sometimes I think I do. But not during this virus management/recovery/shelter at home time in our world. In classic American cultural fashion, I want to fix things, now in order to return to what could be counted on. But I
Continue reading
Of course, as Christian people, we pray for the alleviation of illness, suffering, and death. And we follow the reliable directions of public health officials to prevent the spread of disease and its consequences. We exercise prudence. The second half of the headline for this article (gleaned from a Facebook
Continue reading
When you think about those special times with the people who mean the most to you what do you picture? Do you picture Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners, birthday parties, playing cards? I’m sure most of you, like me, picture smiling faces and hear laughter when you think of these special
Continue reading
I recently watched an episode of ‘Running Wild with Bear Grylls’ featuring actor Michael B Jordan. You may remember Michael from the movies ‘Creed’ and ‘Black Panther.’ In short, Michael B. Jordan looks like he can handle an adventure. Nonetheless, as Bear and Michael climbed a sheer cliff and rappelled
Continue reading
