“I do not counsel people. I teach them to pray.”

Counseling is a responsibility of pastors.  Or so many would say. I have talked with friends who commonly meet with parishioners to listen to their struggles, whether they be emotional, spiritual, physical, relational, financial, or otherwise, and after listening they strive to then offer a word of wisdom, a bit of encouragement, or glimmer of [...]

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Home From Renovare’ :: Additional Reflections

After being delayed on the runway in San Antonio, redirected mid-flight to Waco for refueling, rescheduled on two different flights at DFW, eventually being bumped to a Thursday morning return flight, experiencing an unexpected layover in Dallas (thanks, Fitzhugh family), I’m home.  And it is good to be home.  I am thankful for what I [...]

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Renovare’ :: Day 3

Today has been another fantastic day.  I think the heat is bearable (not that I like it!).  I’ve stood in the shade, made sure to hydrate, and have spent as little time in the sun as possible.  Today I have had the delight of a good cup of coffee, Mexican food, intercessory prayer, uplifting, encouraging, [...]

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Renovare’ :: Day 2

I only have a few minutes before I have to gather my belongings and make the walk to Municipal, but I hit the pillow last night determined to wake this morning and post more of my thoughts, observations, quotables, and insights from Day 2 of the Renovare’ Conference for all to enjoy.  More commentary to [...]

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Renovare’ :: Day 1

I couldn’t be happier to be in San Antonio.  Early this spring I stumbled upon Renovare’s 2009 Spiritual Formation Conference.  I cannot remember how my attention was drawn to this event or how I ended up at their website.  I can only remember sending a short email to my wife, Molly, with the link and a [...]

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Renovare’, Riverwalk San Antonio, and Coming Home

In the coming days I’ll be posting updates from San Antonio, Texas.  I’m participating in the Renovare’ Conference and I’m very excited about what I’ll be hearing.  Expect updates each day!  The blog has been a little too silent lately.  I’m hoping this time in Texas will inspire creativity, rejuvenate my soul, and serve as [...]

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Compassion + NOOMA = New Video

Hey friends, the people at Compassion International and Flannel have teamed up to produce Corner, a new NOOMA video.  You can check it out here.  I’m a Compassion advocate and have watched the NOOMA short films with interest.  They are a helpful springboard for theological discussion, speaking powerfully with clever juxtapositions, engaging contextualization, and helpful [...]

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Hammer Time!

Thanks to Matt for directing my attention to this bit of greatness.

When I’ve written about Flash Mobs, this is what I’m talking about!

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The New GM?

Check out this video:

Lesson for churches: Repentance comes before renewal.  This definitely merits expanded commentary, but I’d rather start a conversation.
What do you think?

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Speak the Truth to me. Don’t sell me.

Jesus is a person.  Not a product.  Introduce me.  Don’t sell me.
I’m quite accustomed to hearing Jesus presented as someone who can help me, lift me up when I am down, or solve my problems.  Through song and sermon I’ve become acquainted with “feel good” Jesus.  I’ve been told that I have needs only Jesus [...]

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