Update: This post is predominantly written to those in the Christian faith who don’t understand why some Christians are concerned about vaccines and Bill Gates. My intention is not to convince you that vaccines are bad, but help you understand why other folks are concerned, and to stop the cycle of name-callling within the Christian faith. I do not envision this article to be the end-all-be-all for why vaccines are bad (and in fact do not believe vaccines are inherently evil), but instead to be a starting…Continue Reading “Why are people afraid of vaccines and Bill Gates?”
For the better part of my writing life, I’ve avoided writing on topics of politics. I’ve long-held my role is to disciple and encourage those in the faith, not to get involved with politics. I’ve recently changed my view on this, and will attempt to share the basis of it for the benefit of anyone who might be wrestling with the same tension. 1. Why Avoid Politics? To start, why did I ever feel compelled to avoid writing on politics? Well, there are an abundance of…Continue Reading “Should we get involved in politics?”
RE: A post and discussion on morality. Bethany, your bravery and boldness has brought up such an important topic that we most often shy away from, and generally feel uncomfortable discussing: the pervasiveness of sexual immorality our culture. Among those who believe the Bible is divinely inspired: Who here is glad for how much nudity exists in TV and movies? Who is happy that pornographic content is so accessible, anonymous and affordable (the three A’s of addiction)? Who is thankful for the increase of sexualized photos…Continue Reading “Who’s Responsible?”
When’s the last time you set out to accomplish much more than you knew you were capable of? I mean, really stretched yourself. I’m talking — to the point that if you tried to explain what you were doing to anyone else, they’d either try to talk you out of it, or at the very least pity you for being so abundantly dumb. We don’t collectively try this as a culture. For the most part, it’s not safe. Don’t believe me? Try it. You’ll find…Continue Reading “Passion”
I went for a run for the first time in a long while this evening. A mile and a half in, I had to drop my dog Bailey off at the house. She was dragging me down (a surprise for those who may know her energizer-bunny-esque energy). Heading back out to the street, I’d decided I wanted to run the next full mile. The last time I’d clocked myself on a mile run was…a few years ago. So after downloading the Nike Run app and logging…Continue Reading “Not gunna quit”
The incomprehensible events that took place this week in Oregon have reignited a cultural frenzy over gun control. Many are speaking out of their own beliefs and convictions, whether scriptural, moral, or political, imploring action to be taken. I’m not here today to provide my own thoughts on moral nor political action. However, I became concerned this morning as I see a church who is easily divided by this subject. We are polarized. People get down-right angry when the discussion is opened up to reviewing gun-control policies. On the opposite…Continue Reading “Gun Control”
Friends and family, My heart is heavy for many you out there. As I’ve gotten to know many of you, I’ve found most of us aren’t living joyfully. In fact, many of us our constantly strained. We find relief in moments here and there — but overall, life is immensely difficult. May it be physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual — we’re all always up against something that feels bigger than are we. I’ve shared with a few of you that since I turned 18, each…Continue Reading “We are hope”
Recently, I realized I’ve spent much of my life trying to be normal. I’ve never wanted to be a weirdo. From the clothes I wear, to the things I say. I’ve always just wanted to kind of blend-in and not be too noticed, except when I do something fantastically awesome..then I want to be appreciated (am I right?). But, I’ve never understood people who defy societal norms. You know, those people in a room who radiate uncharacteristically abnormal behavior or appearance. Though, I’ve come to a less incomplete understanding…Continue Reading “Are we boring?”
Hello world, It’s been about a year since I took a break from writing. I have much to share with you all, but not quite the right words to capture what the Father has led me through over the past few years. And since I do not know from where to begin, I’ll simply begin. No editing. No revisions. I’m not going to worry about getting these writing perfect. I’ll just share what’s on my heart and pray it encourages your spirit. — I began…Continue Reading “Are we living in identity?”
Leadership cannot be appointed by men. It must be anointed by the Father. Not only this, but we must accept the mantle of leadership. This means we must always put the needs of others before ourselves. When we submit ourselves to serving others in this way, so that we are willing to make any self-sacrifice, we can accomplish anything. Colossians 3:12-14: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if…Continue Reading “Are we fighting for unity?”