Letters to a Congregation
Every Thursday I write a pastoral letter to the west congregation of The Austin Stone Community Church. These letters are simple, pastoral musings on what it looks like to live a life that is attentive to God in the midst of a shared context.
The One About Ezekiel, the News, and Caffeine Addiction
Even when it seems like the people of God are dormant and we start to wonder if we are all alone, God is still loving. He even speaks in Babylon. He even moves amongst the darkest nights. The world might not be going all that well, but God is still God, and as we get a glimpse of Him, He is still revealed as glorious and majestic and wise and holy and sovereign.
The One About Bible Plans, King Saul, and Self-Loathing
I usually read this narrative with a particular focus on David, but this time I have been fascinated with Saul. He is a tragic tale of self-obsession, neurosis, suspicion, self-loathing and a tragedy of deep insecurity. And yet he had so many things in his favor, but he just couldn’t see it.
I am more like Saul than I dare to admit.
The One About Gideon, Bravery, and Six Words That Change Everything
The presence of someone with you, who is stronger than you, really does help you to face things that you fear. Doing it alone feels really daunting.