The Donkey and the Elephant

Throughout this primary season I’ve heard many cries of the system being “hijacked” and “undemocratic” and “not following the will of the people” from my friends who are more left of center on the political spectrum. In some respects, I can understand. I agree the DNC wanted to hold a coronation, rather than have a…

Kingdom Collision

Back in 2008 I preached a sermon series entitled “Kingdom Collision,” which explored the political implications of Jesus’ First Century ministry. My hope for the series was to show how Jesus refused to be sucked into the culture wars of his days. Instead, he offered a complete different perspective than his opponents were expecting1. Given…

Practical Lent

A good number of Americans think of Lent as “that season when you give something up 1.” Lent is a lot more than that. Lent is a season of holy introspection, prayer, and paying close attention to the rhythm of life in order to better align oneself with the Savior. It is a season to…

Determined

This past fall my family and I travelled to see Amazing Grace on Broadway. I was saddened when Amazing Grace closed so quickly, even as I was grateful to be able to see it. This sadness was assuaged somewhat by the announcement of an impending National Tour and a confirmed cast recording. The album was…

A different “game”

Writing is a fascinating endeavor. Each time I put some of my thoughts into a blog post, sermon, or story I put a bit of myself on display for the world to see. It’s a process which is both liberating and terrifying. Putting oneself “out there” means being open to being wounded by the unthinking…

An Idolatrous Promise

A recent comment on my post, Ironic Partisans pointed me to a well-written article about Donald Trump, authored by Rachel Held Evans. As readers of this blog are aware, I am desperately trying to avoid filling the echo chambers of social media with more fuel – but Rachel quoted something from Mr. Trump which I…