Preaching from Matthew 15:10–20, I touched upon the contrast between external religious practice and internal motivation—something Jesus discussed extensively throughout his ministry. He had an uncanny ability to penetrate the hard exterior of our lives and go below...

Recently, several churches have asked me about revitalization efforts. The typical scenario includes declining attendance, lack of young families and youth, deteriorating facilities, and dwindling finances. Their concern is genuine and their fear is real as hope slips...

Yesterday, I remarked to a friend, “If I don’t make it through this, it’s been nice knowing you and I will see you on the other side.” I was referring to the extensive work involved in removing clay from my yard after having a new sewer line installed. This...

Christmas is over and the New Year will soon be upon us. It is that awkward time between one holiday and the next when we realize changes need to be made in our life. The beginning of the New Year becomes the yearly starting gate for implementing all of the changes we...

My memory has failed me on more than one occasion and I am embarrassed to admit that it happens far too frequently these days. I have left messages for someone else on my own voicemail, bought a movie ticket for a show I watched the week before, and turned on the...