Opinion
The Secret Hidden from the Amoral
There’s a secret that’s hidden from the amoral, known only by the virtuous. What is it? And what guidance does it provide about how we live out our days?
Good Faith Media Update
The Good Faith Media board of directors met this week in Nashville, Tennessee. It was the first in-person meeting for the organization since its launch in July of 2020.
A Place at the Beach
An annual preaching opportunity on the North Carolina coast offers the benefit of a beach vacation. Interesting signs on the beach-side homes were one of several amusing encounters.
The Contract and Slender Threads of Life
We all received a contract of life at birth; it’s part of the gift of existence. It’s only in looking back that we begin to see the slender threads of an unseen hand at work.
My PCD Explains a Lot, at Least to Me
Ever heard of PCD? I’m fairly confident that I have it. So, here is a quick primer on what it is – and why it can be important for faith communities.
What People of Faith Can Do While Waiting for a Truce
The Pope’s call for an Easter truce leading to peace talks regarding Ukraine and Russia went unheeded. It is time for people of good faith to pick up this mantle and consistently urge an end to the invasion.
Faith Seeking Understanding | My Journey to the Raceless Gospel
A faith that cannot be questioned cannot claim to have all the answers. In following the principle of ‘faith seeking understanding,’ I found the Raceless Gospel.
RaDonda Vaught and Medical Neglect
A former Tennessee nurse was found guilty of medical neglect. Her case raises questions about medical ethics and public understanding of the health care system. The verdict could create new problems for health care workers and their patients.
Why It’s Time for Churches to Set Aside Their NDAs
If the story of Easter teaches us anything, it is that what happens in darkness will come to light. The tendency of churches to require ministers to sign NDAs needs to end, so healing for all can occur.
God’s Awesome Creation
A recent trip to Islamorada revealed the awesomeness of God’s creation. But you don’t have to travel to the Florida Keys to appreciate the world’s beauty – just step out your door and pay attention.
Look Back | Reading the Green Bible
The Bible has been described in many ways, but have you heard it called “God’s green book”? Here is why you should consider this descriptor and what it would mean for your day-to-day life.
Earth Day and Spring Planting
My wife and I head out to our local nursery each year to purchase flowers for our backyard. This annual ritual reminds us of the beauty of creation and the need to care for the planet.
Creation and Liturgy on Earth Day
As faith communities around the world prepare for the 2022 observance of Earth Day, let’s remember that humans are part of creation. Learn how some U.S. churches affirm God’s declaration that humanity is “very good.”
Is Mother Nature Jewish?
Mother Nature is beyond religion and theology, but she follows many Jewish values. In the name of so-called “progress,” creation has suffered. Earth Day is a great time to take stock and set forth on a more sustainable path.
Ministry on an Emerging New Landscape
Like a lava flow that reshapes the physical landscape, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the business, educational, entertainment and religious landscapes. What will the future look like?
Who’s Gonna’ Make the Sticky Buns?
As observed during a recent hotel breakfast, there is a disconnect between the services people desire and attitudes toward those who do or can provide those services.
The Desert Shall Blossom
Walking among the flowers is always a fascinating and rejuvenating experience. The prophet Isaiah seems to agree, as he incorporates images of blooming and flourishing to his proclamation of hope.
The Feeling Is Still on My Cheek
Eight-three years ago today, Marian Anderson performed on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Her performance was not without controversy, but her song choice demonstrated a belief in ‘the true meaning of democracy.’
SCOTUS Hearing Revealed Problematic Expectations of Black Women
The Honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson has been confirmed as the 116th associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The hearing leading to her confirmation revealed problematic expectations of Black women that many hold.
Emerging Voices | What Eastertide Resurrection Tells Us about Healing from Trauma
With the southwestern U.S. beginning to shift to summer-like weather, a scar on my right leg is visible again. After months of being covered, its reappearance around Easter week led me to reflect on Easter, scars and trauma.
The Moment
Many Christians focus on Friday’s crucifixion or Sunday’s resurrection at this time of year. Thursday night when Jesus enters the Garden of Gethsemane is where I tend to pause for reflection. Here is why this moment is so important.
All Who Are Hungry, Come and Eat
My wife and I take seriously the declaration of the Passover seder – all who are hungry, come and eat; all who need to do so, come and partake of the Passover ritual.
Then, and Now
A trip to visit my father brought joy and sadness. Going through my 94-year-old father’s home after he moved to assisted living was like taking a journey through my family’s past.
Lenten Lectionary | From Despair to Confusion to Faith
There are several accounts of, and references to, the resurrection of Jesus in the Christian Testament. They offer different perspectives on, and details regarding, the central confession of Christianity.
Hope From Above: A Reflection on Enoch and Jude
The letter of Jude in a strange document. At only 25 verses, it is often overlooked in biblical studies. Yet, its vision, drawing on that of the Book of Enoch, offers an ultimately hopeful vision.
‘My God, They Killed Him’
Holy Week is a good time to consider societal expectations. After all, Jesus is chief among the many martyrs who have dared to live above community standards in a way that cost them their lives.
Holy Week Through the Lens of Covenant Faith
The Easter narratives are so familiar that it can be challenging to find creative ways to engage the story. Here is fresh insight thanks to some thoughtful fellow pilgrims and a new look at a familiar text.
Health Care Workers in the Line of Fire
The attacks on medical facilities in Ukraine have brought attention to the concept of medical neutrality. Here is a brief overview of the concept, along with a few examples of when it has been violated.
Are You a Walking Contradiction?
Lent is not merely a season but a reminder to pay attention to those who are suffering. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, then how can we ever look away?
It’s Well Past Time for U.S. to Become a Nation of Justice for All
I recently had two hard conversations with African American clients I have come to admire. These led me to reflect on the state of justice, or lack thereof, in the U.S.