The Power of Weakness

It began for me on Ash Wednesday, just a few weeks ago. Twice that day I had the sign of the cross smudged onto my forehead. Twice I somberly considered my own mortality, as we’re encouraged to do every year … (read more)

Financial Report 2018

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Psalm 20:7 NIV We recently had our Annual Business Meeting. Some of you where there. For those who weren’t, I thought … (read more)

Is the Lord Calling You?

I heard a new word recently: administrivia. As you might imagine, this word was used by one of those bright, dynamic, no nonsense, leadership gurus. These individuals have no time for the seemingly unimportant bits of data and details that … (read more)

DNA and Smartphones

DNA is neat stuff. People who knew my grandfather have often told me how I look and sound like him. I like that. He was a great man of God and I loved him dearly. I’m glad I have some … (read more)

What To Expect (and Do) When God Directs

Handing control over to someone else can be rather uncomfortable and unsettling for some of us, perhaps most of us. After all, generally we want things “our way.” The idea of another person making choices that will affect us deeply … (read more)

Carrying the Work Into New Generations

Recently, when we opened an envelope received in the mail, we were pleasantly surprised to find a check for an unusually large sum of money. It was a bequest from a donor who had a long giving history with the … (read more)

Juan Ribalta’s The Adoration of the Shepherds

The World Needs Shepherds

As we boarded our flight out of Singapore, soft music was flowing through the plane’s loudspeakers. A smile came immediately to Pris’ face. She recognized the significance of what we were hearing. Christmas music on a plane in mid-November was … (read more)

“By Invitation Only”

Upon seeing that a special occasion is described as “by invitation only,” some might find themselves frustrated or jealous if they wish that they could attend the big event. Others, however, might be elated and feel quite privileged because they … (read more)

“Go Now Fund”

I remember hearing a comedian many years ago who told a story about playing high school football. The team had a bad first half and was losing. In the locker room at half-time, the coach pumped them up with a … (read more)