A few weeks ago, my colleague Dr. Channing Crisler posted some very helpful comments concerning the (in)appropriateness of judging and judgments. Coming from a different angle I’d like to diagnose a different problem endemic to the spirit of our age. The precise wording differs on context but I’d say the phrase “We shouldn’t judge” or “Don’t you judge me” or … Read More
Marriage Licenses, sold by Verizon (w/ a 2-year commitment)
Cultural views on marriage are changing rapidly. The previous slow march of allowing same-sex couples to marry has sped up recently. A decade ago the question seemed to be: should homosexual couples be allowed to marry? After the initial and resounding “no” by multiple state referenda, by all accounts the cultural, electoral, and judicial answer seems to be moving in … Read More
Pastoral Perceptivity: An Essential Tool for Ministry
I tried to join my friend’s sense of accomplishment as he told me the story over the phone. From his very first day as pastor of a high profile church in rural community, he had set his sights on a new ministry model—something that he believed would put the church on the cutting edge—something that would eliminate miles of red … Read More
The Maxim of the Mask
The award for longest running and most unwatched mime act must belong to the stewards and stewardesses who pantomime safety directions before each airplane lifts off the tarmac. Few pay attention to the rehearsed routine as these airline attendants display the proper procedure for buckling a safety harness, opening an exit, and inflating the life vest located under the seat. (Am I … Read More