Opinion
Why You Can’t Go Back to Normal After Pandemic
Many people across the US are enjoying the feeling that we’re coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing hope that they’ll be able to finally ‘get back to normal.’ That may be understandable, but it’s not a good idea.
The Shameful Easter Massacre You Never Heard About
A mob of mostly white men massacred at least 150 Black Americans in Colfax, Louisiana, on Easter Sunday 1873. Churches and their leaders were seemingly silent in responding to the shameful ‘racial carnage’ at the time.
Nationalism and Holy Week
Nationalistic ideas informed the actions of both Judas and the crowds that jeered at Jesus in his final days. During this Holy Week, let’s make certain to take another path, following the way of Jesus.
Are Vaccine Mandates Legal, Ethical, Advisable? – Part 2
The idea of vaccine mandates is being discussed as vaccinations increase across the U.S. This raises ethical questions about how to balance individual freedom with public health concerns.
Look Back | Why You Should Be Glad Easter’s Always Moving
Easter, the most important day on the Christian calendar, determines when most of the other important days will be observed. The “movability” of Easter, then, reminds us that it is the controlling event for other days.
Cave of Horror, or of Wonder?
The discovery of a “new” Dead Sea Scroll was announced recently by the Israeli Antiquities Authority. It was found in a “cave of horror,” along with many other significant finds.
Are Vaccine Mandates Legal, Ethical, Advisable? – Part 1
COVID-19 vaccine distributions are increasing significantly, raising questions about whether vaccine mandates should be implemented. Are such requirements legal, ethical and advisable?
Little Things Offer Big Inspiration at Easter
A cereal box message about ‘finding big inspiration in the little things’ is a timely reminder. Big inspiration is often birthed by unexpected little surprises that cumulatively have the ability to transform our world.
Good or Bad Applies More to People Than Professions
There are good cops and bad cops. Good pastors and bad pastors. Good teachers and bad teachers. Good judges and bad judges. Most often, people, not roles, determine whether someone is good or bad.
7 Examples of Slower-Impact Humanitarian Crises
Our nation faces clear humanitarian crises that affect the human family in catastrophic ways. Yet other situations may have a slower impact but are still extremely destructive to our well-being as a people. Here are 7 examples.
Why Dr. Seuss Cancellations Are Good News
When news surfaced about the discontinuation of six Dr. Suess’ books because they depicted racial stereotypes, cries of ‘cancel culture’ soon erupted. But while there will be loss in this change and others, it will be worth it.
3 Habits Help Lonely People Feel Connected
Faith communities at large have been feeling the impact of loneliness and isolation in a new way during the pandemic. We may believe online platforms keep us from feeling alone, but the cries of church members tell another story.
Psychological Impacts of Pandemic Distancing Likely to Linger
COVID-19 changed the landscape of ministry, requiring every faith leader to quickly adapt. While pandemic mitigation efforts were essential, we must consider what has been lost without in-person gatherings.
Look Back | ‘Caving into Culture’ Is Often Needed
A common refrain from Christians defending the status quo is that they follow the unchanging Bible, while others cave into modern culture. Here’s why such claims are problematic – and why “caving into culture” can be the right decision.
Entering the Darkness of Holy Week
Grief due to mass shootings, humanitarian crises, the ongoing global pandemic and more is overwhelming. Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem was not all celebration – dark clouds hung over Holy Week then … and now.
Is Health Care a Right?
Is health care a right? Before we can answer that question, we need to be clear about what we mean by “rights.” Here’s a primer on the term and how it relates to health care and human rights.