In light of the massacre in Orlando last weekend, for my column in today's Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette (6/19), I felt compelled to return to one of my oft-visited themes in the religion column -- grief.  -----After the horrific killings in Orlando last weekend a man said to me, “I just can’t imagine.” That response reminded meContinue reading "In the river of grief, love is stronger than death"

So a pastor gets fired by his disgruntled congregation.  Before he leaves he puts 3 envelopes in themiddle desk drawer for the incoming pastor. Attached to the envelopes is a note that says, "To be opened when you run into trouble."Well, a new pastor is called and sure enough it isn't long before he getsContinue reading "Humble pastors, well, humble people, gain trust more quickly"

In my June 5 religion column today for the Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette, I reflect a little on how we hear God's voice.  I was remembering an incident on one of my trips to China that got me thinking about this... ----- A few years back on an overnight train from Shanghai to Beijing, I lay inContinue reading "Learning to hear God’s voice"

I met Pastor John Piippo 7 years ago via his blog.  I have just read his new book Praying: Reflections on 40 years of Solitary Conversations with God.  My column in today's Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette (5/22) explains how I got to know Piippo.  And I think you'll see why I feel his new book, which I recommend,Continue reading "You learn to pray by praying"

Writer Henri Nouwen says the essential question of the Christian life is this:Who do you belong to?One of my teachers and mentors John Piippo answers that question like this:"I am my beloved and He is mine.  I belong to God."Piippo then explains, "I do not belong to other people and what they think of me.Continue reading "Who do you belong to?"

The Holy Spirit lives inside all believers. But...The Spirit's work can be hindered.  It's sad but true.Consider these words from the Apostle Paul."And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption." Ephesians 4:30and"Do not put out the Spirit's fire." I Thessalonians 5:19Here's what happens.  WeContinue reading "Yes, we can grieve the Spirit & put out the Spirit’s fire"

My column today in the Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette (5/8/16) looks at 5 memoirs, all published this year (2016), that I have read since the first of the year.  Interestingly, all 5 book, in their own way, tackle one of life's most enduring questions ... "If God is so loving and good, why do such horrible thingsContinue reading "5 memoirs that help give words to one of life’s most enduring questions"

Two things if you want to be truly pastoral: 1.  Someone tells you something incredibly sad or confusing or hurtful or whatever.  Try saying, "I just don't know what to say. I am so sorry." It's the truth.  It's honest and it's heartfelt.  You aren't trying to fix anything. 2.  Say, "I just don't knowContinue reading "What to say when you don’t know what to say…"