Pastoral Reflection on 2020
As I look back over 2020, I’m more overwhelmed at what God did than what we endured. Yes, this year had its fair share of challenges, but it didn’t hinder God’s work.
2020
Think Church Rebuild – Not Church Restart
All church leaders have been imagining what it will be like when we restart and everything returns to normal. That isn’t happening. We need to think about a church rebuild – not a church restart.
The Looming Decision for COVID Education
I have talked with so many parents who are concerned with the unknown situation regarding their children’s education during these anxious times we live in due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now in July, and most parents are holding their breath awaiting an imminent decision with serious implications.
Don’t Be Surprised by the Supreme Court
Over the last few weeks, the Supreme Court has made some decisions that were surprising to many. The apparent conservative majority among the justices was supposed to ensure that significant cases regarding ethical issues would be destined to lean toward conservative conclusions. That has not been the case.
These Are My Sons [Both of Them]
These are my sons. Both of them. I have been asked before, “Are they really your sons?” “Oh, they are both quite real, so then I would suppose they are both really my sons.” They are my sons, and they are brothers. Real brothers. You might think I look at them differently. You are right. I do look at them …
What Black People Want White People to Understand
Black people don’t think every white person is racist, but every time a white person defends injustice, it makes their distrust to widen considerably.
Realistic Expectations for Church Regatherings
In the weeks to come, many churches who practiced social distancing during the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic will begin to regather. Regardless of when your church decides to meet back together, here are some things to consider. Attendance will be lower. Anticipate that, and don’t get discouraged by it. If your church is intentionally trying to have smaller services, …
Questions to Answer Before Reopening Church Gatherings
As a culture walking through the uncharted territory of an international pandemic, we know that we have to begin the process of reopening businesses, parks, restaurants, schools, and even churches. While plenty of measures have been taken to flatten the curve of the COVID-19, we all acknowledge that, at some point, we have to reverse operational trends, yet we must …
When a Mandated Quarantine Forces Ministry Innovation
With the rise of COVID-19 around the world, it has caused everyone to get creative quickly. In ministry and church settings, we have been asked not to gather for a few weeks, but we are also aware that it could be longer. Many ministry leaders I have spoken with regret not having some things in place currently. They were going …
Taking My Eyes Off the COVID-19
It’s Monday morning. We have an international pandemic on our hands, and I don’t know what to do. As an individual, husband, dad, pastor, and friend, I feel like many want me to provide answers. Some I have, but others I don’t. I’m an extremely optimistic pastor. I have faith in God. I know he can do the impossible. I’m …
From One Chair to Another
I was asked to serve as a trustee during a transitional time in North Greenville University’s history. As I finish my final stint on a 5-year term, our board has asked me to serve as chair. I was surprised to have been asked to serve as a trustee, and I was blindsided by the request to serve as chairman. I …
The Right Person in the Wrong Spot
On January 13, 2020, Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow led the LSU Tigers to defeat the Clemson Tigers for the National Championship. As a Clemson fan, it was a disappointing loss but one that provided plenty of respect for the solid LSU team. They figured out how to get it done on both sides of the ball and had a …
How Do Mentally Ill People Get to Heaven?
As a pastor, I have been asked this question numerous times during my time in ministry: how do mentally ill people get to heaven? While it is often worded in different ways, it normally comes from a concerned person who has watched a family member suffer from mental illness. While nearing or following a death, people want relief regarding the …