The Ultimate Bait and Switch

The Ultimate Bait and Switch

Depsite what many people think, missionaries are not the Navy SEALs of the Church. We’re really no better than anyone else. But when we arrive to speak to congregations about how the Lord blesses us, we often talk up our successes, tally our converts, and wax eloquent about innovative programs and church-starts. By those standards, […]

Authenticity

Authenticity

A buzz word among the writing community. Among churches. Among the market savvy. But if we’re only “authentic” for the sake of being more marketable, does that qualify as genuine authenticity? Genuine. Not false. True to one’s own personality, spirit, or character. It’s why writers “write what we know.” When we’re vulnerable and honest, people […]

A Little Perspective

A Little Perspective

I have nothing to add to this humbling encouragement. Paul David Tripp, in his book, How People Change, writes: “We have been chosen from the mass of humanity to live in an intimate union with Christ. It is amazing even to be tolerated by God. It would be an honor simply to be invited to […]

Flat on my Back and Learning

Flat on my Back and Learning

It was the epitome of slapstick. Oh, how I wish I’d been watching rather than playing a starring role. In the kitchen, Smalls edged away from Short Son, and the back of his thighs hit the 32 cup steel bowl we fill with water for our dog. It all happened at once. Smalls folded up […]

July 4th in America: Through Short Son’s Eyes

July 4th in America: Through Short Son’s Eyes

Our family spent time preparing for a true celebration of Independence Day. We’ve all been studying the Declaration of Independence and the character and integrity of our nation’s Founding Fathers. What a rich heritage. Today, we spent time in prayer, thanking God–not only for the men who gave their lives to secure the liberty we […]