How should we approach the divided, increasingly hostile polarization of our times? Unfortunately, we are not living in times marked by unity, tolerance, and love even though those are the virtues that are constantly espoused as ideal. Sadly, the lip service we pay to unity, tolerance, and love is not translating into greater societal wholeness … Continue reading The radical middle–a third way
Category: Friendships
Friend of Sinners
Of all the many names and titles affixed to Jesus throughout His ministry, this one might be the sweetest—and the most controversial. It was not bestowed as a compliment, and the people who gave Him this name were not admiring Him for it. They said, “Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of … Continue reading Friend of Sinners
William’s 400-meter failure
During the past few months I have been volunteering as the assistant track and field coach at my daughter’s high school. I’ve loved it, and it has been the fulfillment of a dream I’ve carried ever since I first met Pat Stahl, the track and field coach who profoundly shaped my life in high school. … Continue reading William’s 400-meter failure
The twin six-shooters of spiritual warfare
Are you old enough to remember the original Lone Ranger? In addition to the mystique of his mask, his horse, Silver, and his best friend, Tonto, I always loved his twin six-shooters. The bad guys usually only had one gun, while Tonto, had one gun plus a knife. The Lone Ranger, however, always carried two. … Continue reading The twin six-shooters of spiritual warfare
Heart Punch
Have you ever been punched in the heart? Not your literal, physical heart, but your more vulnerable internal one? You'll know if you have, simply by gauging your emotional reaction to the term. Heart punch. It's that blow that thuds into your emotions leaving you feeling sad, sickened, and despairing all at once. It's a … Continue reading Heart Punch