Looking back to look ahead
What are you planning for 2024? Wait! Before you jump in, take a few moments to take stock of this year. Then think about next year.
Giving thanks–for cancer?!
I wouldn’t say I’m thankful for my husband’s cancer. However, it has brought blessings into our life, including a greater appreciation for our life day to day.
Pastoral care: don’t get hooked
Pastoral care is an essential part of ministry. Individuals and families in the congregation are under our care. However, it’s easy for pastors to get sucked in doing more for people than is good for them—or for us.
Are you creative?
A colleague of mine once presented a theological paper where he made an excellent case that the image of God was creativity. I’ve never forgotten this idea.
Summer reading: A selection
One of the blessings of adulthood is you get to read whatever you want (no matter what other people or the latest must-read lists tell you).
Past, present, or future?
It’s easy to spend time, as I am right now, looking back and remembering the way things used to be, or looking ahead worrying about what might be. However, I have learned over the years that now is the most important moment. Fully living right now is the greatest spiritual practice, being present in the moment, being present with the person right in front of me.