My style of pastoring is a constant frustration to people. Including myself. I don’t fit the bill. And I am vocal about it. I’m open about my struggle with the church, with my vocation, with the faith altogether. I’m open about my own doubts, fears, and questions. I am frequently informed that our church would be better off with a different pastor. Sometimes by those I pastor. But when someone decides to talk to me about it, or when I... Read more
I was telling a friend today that I feel like I am a voice crying in the wilderness sometimes. I sense I am working behind enemy lines in very hostile territory. My style of pastoring is very different. I know that. And our church community is very different. We know that. The result of my and our uniqueness* brings harassment verbally, socially, spiritually, etc. Here are just some of the reasons: You can believe however you want if you want.... Read more
I just wanted to shout out some link love to some people and sites online who have made a difference in my personal life that I hope is reflected in my blogging: Seth Godin: Seth exhorts me to damn the torpedoes and fulfill my own call with integrity and passion. Thanks Seth! Hugh MacLeod of gapingvoid: Hugh first inspired me to Ignore Everybody and cartoon with spice. Thanks Hugh! Hazel Dooney: Hazel’s an extraordinary and edgy artist in the system... Read more
I went for a walk early this morning. I quit the gym because I want to enjoy the outdoors. It helps me stay in touch with my mystical side. And it’s cheaper to exercise this way. Walking through one of the subdivisions, I came across this small herd of deer. There were 12 altogether. We just stood and stared at each other for a while. Even my dog just stood and wagged her tail. The deer were playful and unafraid.... Read more
Vision is incompatible with church community. The vision and mission statement talk is very provocative and tempting. As soon as anyone questions what our purpose is, it has the immediate and alluring aura of imagining, creating and shaping our future. It’s called futuring. And it is very sexy. If you are a business or an influence or lobby group or club or even a charity or anything else, you will need to have a vision and articulate a mission statement.... Read more
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