Mostly For United Methodist Eyes – Bloom Where You’re Planted
Take an “imaginary” trip with me. The year is 2017, but things are different in some subtle ways. The U.S. military uses horses as its main mode of transportation because horses worked so well during the Civil War. Major companies conduct business through the phone party line because that is what worked for a century. […]
Pastor, Leader, and Equipper – O My!
If you’re a pastor, you’ve likely heard it. “We need a pastor who is more of a shepherd!” What does that mean? I interpret that to be the 20th century American fallacy that we pay people to do things on our behalf, including pastors to do the primary ministry activities. Go visit members in need. […]
Hospitality Begins with Signage
Think about times you’ve been embarrassed. What was the context? How did you feel? It wasn’t good, was it? Being embarrassed is a terrible feeling. When I’m embarrassed, I’m tempted to turn around and run. And that’s what I see from you too! I hang out at a coffeehouse where there’s great service and lively […]
A Pastor’s Wish List
Ministry in today’s culture is more difficult than perhaps at any other time in history. Sure, we’re in no danger of being fed to the lions, but today’s culture is more resistant to religion … any religion … than ever before. After speaking with pastors and staff, I heard some consistent wishes. 1. I wish […]
My Problem with Old People Even Though I Are One
Before you get mad, I am an old person. I’m 77, so I’m one of those old people I have a problem with (I Know, preposition in the wrong place. Get over it; it’s not 1950). But here is my gripe with old people in church – they almost always come to church early and […]
Don’t Waste Your First Six Months
There are two ways to approach a new calling to a declining church. (1) Start slowly, build relationships, get the lay of the land, and then slowly effect changes. Ready, Aim, Fire. Or (2) Assess quickly, make changes, and then make adjustments. Ready, Fire, Aim. The first method is the most common approach in ministry. […]