Archives For July

I did not grow up in a perfect family. I would imagine that’s true for most of my readers (not to insult you, just pointing out that this blog doesn’t appear to get many hits from perfect people).

Despite any imperfections, my family did manage to teach me strong Judeo-Christian values, including strength of character, the importance of personal responsibility, and self-respect. Our American culture is spiraling out of control because we have been coaxed and cajoled by the media elite (who clearly didn’t have perfect families either) to believe that in order to be respected, our country must roll out the ‘welcome’ mat and be stomped on by those who simply do not share traditional American values.

Christians are increasingly under attack even in America. Atheists partner with liberal lawyers to challenge Christians’ right to pray to a God that the atheist doesn’t even believe exists. Churches are increasingly, though for the most part subtly(for the time being), pressured to not speak out on issues of moral right and wrong. In fact, the notion of ‘absolute truth’ has become nearly as offensive as a swear word, even among many believers.

Now New York City is moving ahead with plans to allow for a new Islamic mosque to be erected at Ground Zero — the very place where radical Islamic jihadists would snuff out the lives of nearly 3000 people not even ten years ago. The mayor of NYC doesn’t seem to understand what’s wrong with this picture because, after all, NYC is a place that prides itself on its colorful mosaic of diversity and multiculturalism.

Rodney King is perhaps best known for that whiny phrase, “Can’t we all get along here?”

Well, in a nutshell the answer is no — at least not if we intend to live with some measure of dignity and self-respect. Continue Reading…

One of the best questions I’ve ever encountered as a leader is: “What are you pretending not to know?”

I know . . . it’s not especially deep at first glance. But when you spend some time with it and really think it through, I think you’ll agree that it’s a question worth keeping around.

I ran across this post about mega-churches the other day, and I’ve been giving it some considerable thought. In fact, I’ve found myself asking that question: “What are you pretending not to know?”

Having served in a number of churches through the years, I can attest to the fact that young adults indeed seem to be leaving the church — or at least migrating to nearby mega-churches. Whether it’s the coffee shop, the bookstore, or the high-energy children’s programming that draws them in, many medium-sized churches are feeling that frustration and discouragement that comes from having ‘missing generations.’

I have a number of friends and ministry colleagues involved in leadership at some of the nation’s most vibrant mega-churches. These are good people with strong values and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Having grown up in the country, I’ve had my share of turns helping a stubborn old goat get its horned head out of a fence. That experience sure gives practical weight to the old adage, “The grass is always greener on the other side.” Continue Reading…