The Trouble with Emerging Spirit

Part of the trouble with Emerging Spirit was not in its mandate or vision but in failing to appreciate just how difficult it is for local leadership to make significant shifts in a congregational cult...

Wonder and Surprise

My 16 month old grandson has gone home now. I enjoyed our time together even though he is teething and not feeling like napping or being overly playful. Perhaps it is the particular privilege and pers...

A Few Morsels

I am fond of the DT Niles quote which describes Christians as people who are “like one beggar telling another where to find food.” In this vein, I recommend three readings: 1. Especially a...

Learning and Unlearning

This year I have agreed to be part of a learning experiment at the Vancouver School of Theology. Officially the title is PT651 – “Studio for Strategic Leadership.” During the fall 20...

Marvelously Made!

I understand that the kind of messages we give children are vitally important and I’m working on my affirmations but sometimes – between you and I – I wonder what the cutting edge of...

Mary and Martha

All Gospel is dangerous …  to someone. But texts like this story of Mary and Martha almost require a Hazmat (Hazardous Materials) suit to approach. Radioactive.  Most professional clergy learn e...

Woman Anoints Jesus’ Feet

What moves this story from a 2 star steamer to a 4 star drama is not simply the sex and scandal but the possibility that the gospel in the story may touch our life and we will never be the same. Sermo...