Today I had the privilege of preaching at my church. Doesn't happen too often, but when I do I often find myself looking for a creative outlet. Writing stories can really draw out the point in the fashion of Jesus' parables. The prophet Malachi provides a very interesting way of writing using a Father asking... Continue Reading →
Family Rhythm Goes on a Podcast!
Last week, I had the privilege of being interviewed by Tom Bump of the Kid's Ministry Collective Podcast. We had a conversation ranging from building spiritual rhythms at home to leading in family ministry. Tom is a long-time children's ministry leader, genuine listener, friend and ministry coach. You can check out his website here. Have... Continue Reading →
I’m in Training as a Parent Coach!
I'm excited to announce that I'm enrolled in the Parent Coach Certification program with Connected Families! I've been reading books, taking the Discipline that Connects course, receiving personal coaching and training in a cohort with other students from around the world including 2 from Ehtiopia. I'm hopeful for parents and families as more and more... Continue Reading →
Human Sin: Avoiding Two Traps
My wife doesn’t like this word, but sin sucks! Children are aware of their own sin. When approaching the topic of sin avoid these two traps: 1) Gloss over sin saying, “That’s just kids being kids.” (Seeds planted soon grow.) 2) Squash children with an overbearing weight of impossible expectations. Rather, teach awareness of personal... Continue Reading →
Human Worth: How to See the Good in Others
Why is it that so many of us feel worthless? Why is it that so much of the world treats others as worthless? Whatever the reason, let me state something very clear: you…have…worth! God made us to be like him. No other creature is given that gift. So see the good that God sees. Draw... Continue Reading →
Knowing God: 2 Steps and a Metaphor
God takes the first step in making himself known. He creates. He relates. He reveals. He writes. He speaks. He reminds. He loves. We respond to him. We listen. We look. We speak. We receive. We love. Connect this truth to a child’s heart this week. The God of the universe wants to be known... Continue Reading →
God Talk: Awakening Curiosity
Dive into any topic far enough and you’ll get overwhelming feelings. Dive into technical discussions about God and your head will spin! Let’s keep this simple. GOD IS GOD and we are not. When talking about God in your family or with the family of God, don’t turn it into a competition of who knows... Continue Reading →
Kid Talk: Four Ideas for Increased Connection
Speaking with children is a bit of an art. As adults, we spend a lot of time thinking and speaking with our adult vocabulary. Children need simple words, shorter sentences, essential truth and vivid examples. This isn’t too difficult to accomplish, but takes some conscious thought and consistent effort. Just talk. Keep it simple. No... Continue Reading →
Life: Longing for the Way it is Meant to Be
Life is a wonderful gift. From birth to death, every unique individual is on a journey of discovery and a search for meaning and significance. Yet death is a stark reminder that life is all too short…unless…there is an alternate ending. This is the Gospel: Christ came to bring us life. Real life. Forever life.... Continue Reading →
Late Adulthood: Fulfilling Reflection
Late adults (65+) are those who’ve been blessed to live a full life. They’ve entered a time of harvest from all they’ve experienced. They are to be highly honoured and not forgotten. They have much wisdom to offer. But here, despair can set in if regret overwhelms. Before you enter this stage, ask yourself, “Will... Continue Reading →