On Young Widows, Hot Tea, and Heaven

In light of last week’s news of yet another, high-profile pastor losing his ministry due to patterns of damaging and sinful behavior, I am re-posting an updated version of the essay below, now (sadly) for the third time. As I reflect on the story around this particular fallen pastor, I’m reminded of something that Francis […]

Very recently in a sermon, I reminded our congregation that the true nature of our souls is most often revealed not in the fun and easy times, but in the crucible of suffering and sorrow. Like a dry tea bag, we really don’t know what’s “in there” until it is steeped in hot water. In […]

The following is a modified excerpt from Scott Sauls’s latest book, Irresistible Faith. Used by permission from Thomas Nelson. For some, the Bible is a comfort. For others, it is a disruption. Through the Bible, God heals with reassuring words of forgiveness, kindness and welcome. Also through the Bible, God pierces with warnings meant to stir […]

Before we moved to Nashville seven years ago, we lived five years in what I still believe is the greatest city in the world—New York, New York. I am indebted to NYC, and to the church I served for that season, for much of who I am as a minister today. Although I am still […]