When I first met Deborah*, the word that came to my mind was “firebrand.” Deborah lives among an unreached people group. Long ago, they were stripped of their dignity, identity and God-given purpose in life. Grave injustices have brought this entire population to a place where is no electricity or water. There are very few economic opportunities, and […]
At the Pleasure of the King
Lately I feel a strong pull to define myself by today’s ideologies and movements – or, in some cases, define myself solely by rejecting those with which I disagree. World events and social media issue hourly siren calls for re-definitions and personal declarations. I am tempted also to define the Church by my personal associations and preferences. When […]
“One:” Global Anti-Christian Hostility, and the Case for Action
*Editor’s Note: Some links in this article contain graphic content. I’m often asked why I prioritize the global persecuted church when there’s so much need right in our own backyard. I understand the question. Like most, I serve a local community with pressing needs and issues. How should we regard the global persecution of Christians […]
Identity Satisfaction Through Union with Christ
This is a reprint of an article I wrote that was carried by the Journal of Urban Mission. This article will address (1) how mentors may biblically affirm a disciple’s physical cultural differences within a dominant culture’s message that there is something inherently flawed in his or her design, (2) how theology addresses a body/spirit […]
Motherhood, Untimely Born
A curious command and promise opens Isaiah 54: 1 “Sing, O barren one, who did not bear; break forth into singing and cry aloud, you who have not been in labor! 2 For the children of the desolate one will be more than the children of her who is married,” says the Lord. “Enlarge the […]
Freedom From a One-Dimensional Identity
I see myself as a walking paradox. There are many manifestations of the human condition that I find repugnant, yet that I also find present in me. Some would say that this makes me conflicted at best, hypocritical and self-loathing at worst. Yet and still, I know I’m not alone, as many similarly struggle with […]
Endurance. 