In 2003, the #1 country hit for seven consecutive weeks was a song called Have You Forgotten. Written in the midst of the nationwide debate over a potential invasion of Iraq, it came to give voice to the perspective of middle America: I hear people saying, “We Don’t need this war!” But I say there’s some things worth fighting … More Music’s Unmatched Power
The Beginning You tease me frequently for being a pain in your back from day 1. You endured an entire day of back labor (I’m still not exactly sure what that is, just thankful that I’ll never experience it) before delivering me. As legend has it, I was then rushed out of the room before … More For Mom
If you’re looking for a quick, easy way to kill an otherwise wonderful conversation at the local café, I’ve discovered a way to do so in three words: “I’m a pastor.” I wish a hidden camera could capture that moment of unfiltered, unspoken, awkward honesty as folks remember the things they’ve shared that they would not knowingly choose to share … More Oh, you’re a pastor? Well that’s awkward.
A couple of characteristics that typically apply to town and country churches: They’re small. In these settings, are way more churches between 15-50 people than there are churches of more than 100. They’re made up of individuals who come from rather large extended families. This presents a unique dynamic – whenever a church member hosts a family gathering, the … More When Attendance Doubles
Last Sunday I taught through the final portion of 1 Timothy 3, which includes the following personal note from the Apostle Paul to his young friend, Timothy: I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave … More Bypass
$75,000. Four years. A move away from home to a larger city with a college or university. This is the average opportunity cost for a rural church leader to earn an undergraduate degree at a public college or university (the average cost at a Christian school is even higher). If this church leader wishes to receive further … More Training in the Trenches
This week, I’ve been listening to Green River Ordinance. The lyrics to their song, Better Love, really caught my attention: Faith is not an idle grace Guide my fears and lead my way Darkest heart that You have saved I can’t find a better love
“We’re moving to Troy, Montana.” When my wife and I shared this news with friends and family, the conversation that followed would move along a predictable path. Other person: Where’s that? Us: In the northwest corner of the state. Other person: Oh, like Glacier National Park! Us: Well, it’s actually 2.5 hours west of there. … More Less than a Thousand
Small Town Gospel 