My Statement to New Hope Church about the Yanez/Castile Tragedy
Here is the statement I made this weekend in our worship services at New Hope Church in Minneapolis: "Speak Lord, for thy servant heareth." These are the words uttered in the ancient days by Samuel when he discerned that God was trying to get his attention. "Speak Lord, for…
Reflections on Jeronimo Yanez and Philando Castile
Today in the Twin Cities a jury determined that Officer Jeronimo Yanez was not culpable in the death of Philando Castile when the officer shot him in the summer of 2016 during a traffic stop. For most of my African-American friends this is a verdict that is consistent with their…
“Walk By the Spirit!”
As the Apostle Paul brings closure to his thoughts regarding love being supreme over and above the fleshly extremes of license and law, he raises a tension regarding how to ensure this love will prevail. Galatians 5:16 and following resolve this tension with profound clarity, and the resolution is the…
Reflections on Suffering
The great Apostle Peter once wrote, "Therefore, let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good" (1 Peter 4:19). Clearly Peter understood two very important things: when we do the will of God suffering may come (contrary to the whole health…
Four Needs for Moving Toward Jesus
John 15:8 offers a succinct word about the legitimacy of discipleship. Jesus says, "By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples." But what is the fruit of discipleship---the fruit of which Jesus speaks? Is it having all kinds of knowledge…
On the Night Stand (Select)
Groucho Marx once said, “Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read.” Amen to that! I get asked all the time what I am reading, and so I thought I would share with you the last few books that I…