We’re creatures of habit. We conform to what’s normal around us. God made us that way, and it’s a good thing. It’s why you can turn on a light switch, walk across the room, read a book, and eat spaghetti without getting it all over your face (well, most of you). It’s how you build muscle, gain wisdom, and grow in character. We adjust to that which is–or that which we make–our regular...
What Do You Expect?
Why do so many people struggle more during the holidays? Loneliness, depression, family arguments, increased temptations, you name it—this time of year can be downright tough. But half the challenge around the holidays has less to do with our circumstances and more to do with our expectations. Expectations are TNT to holiday peace and joy. And they come at us from every direction: Advertisers...
Ear to the Ground
Conversation can be like tennis. But sometimes we need it to be more like digging a well.
Tags and Titles
Not all of us carry a business card in a wallet or wear a nametag on our shirt. But every one of us carries one or more titles that shape our lives. Some are clearly negative: Failure, Ugly, Coward, Fag, Unwanted, Unloved. Others may sound pretty good: College Grad, Pastor, Leader, Successful, Sexy. Whatever the titles you carry, they have power. Just like other agreements we make, a title...
You’re Not Digital
Think back over your life in the past three months. What were your most meaningful moments? With the possible exception of a Skype or Face Time call with a far-away loved one, I’m guessing those moments weren’t in front of a screen. And yet, as Americans we’re spending more and more time plugged into electronic media. So are our kids. What are we looking for? Our eyes peer intently at screens as...
Vagabond
If you’ve seen an alleyway lined with blankets and cardboard boxes or an underpass flickering with the light of empty oil drum fires, you’ve had a glimpse of a vagabond fellowship. It’s a place where the beat down and broken find an accepting community, but one where they remain broken.