Individualism

Human beings are distinct persons, created in the image of God.  The idea of an “autonomous individual,” however, is a little lie we tell ourselves in order to make the modern world work — there is no such thing.  We human-beings are social creatures, and every action we take is done under the auspices of…

Worship

   I guess people could argue that this should read, “It’s about being changed for service,” but I don’t agree.  All service (both in and out of “church”) is worship, and as we serve we’re supposed to look more like Christ. In a culture where worship  is often rated according to, “What I like,” I…

Google Worthy

The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and left untried. –G.K. Chesterton This is a quote I often hear repeated by people trying to spur the Church to live out it’s mission.  The “Christian ideal” is not a “free ticket to heaven” for after we die.  The…

Journey theme

I love the metaphor of a “spiritual journey.”  We move from one place – be it physical, spiritual, or a combination of the two – and wind up somewhere else entirely.  This sense of journey is present in a good many pastors (and other Christians) who come into a church and quickly discover that they…

Connection

People who see me as a “computer guy” often make the assumption I am of the opinion, “Old is bad.” They are inevitably surprised this is not the case.  I love Tradition.  I love the connection it gives me to the long history of God’s people gathering in community and experiencing the presence of the…

Aftermath

Let me be clear, I love worship and I am compelled to preach and teach – but by Sunday afternoon it’s usually all I can do to get changed and take a nap.  Worship is an emotionally powerful experience for me, and while I love to preach it does wipe this introvert out.  Throw in…