Recently I read a book by Admiral William H. McRaven MAKE YOUR BED...Little things that can change your life and maybe the world. It is a really simple read, maybe an afternoon. But as is true of most really simple ideas, it is quite profound. I found it worth a few weeks in our word…

I am beginning to prepare the fall series for Wesley and am excited as I read thru the parables Jesus taught. His incredible gift of taking an everyday item or event and turning it into a spiritual lesson just amazes me. Such depth and purpose in a story. I am looking forward to sharing these…

"Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." Philippians 1:27 Now there is a mouthful. As we all journey toward becoming like Jesus, it should help to be reminded that every day counts, even the days when no one is looking. Paul challenges the Philippians to behave in a way…

I have been captivated by Paul since we began studying Philippians together.  One of the decisions he makes is to become a prisoner so that he can go to Rome and witness to Caesar's household.  He deliberately makes himself a prisoner so that he can witness in Rome.  That is some kind of commitment.  It…

This past Sunday we talked about how God will complete the work He started in us. (Philippians 1:6) How comforting it is to recognize God is at work. And how important for me to recognize that I need work. Knowing I am a work in progress frees me to be honest with myself and really…

This past Sunday I shared a key verse for Wesley's future, Matthew 4:19. "Come follow me an I will make you fishers of men." In this short verse, we can find the three essential characteristics that mark us as disciples. 1. Come follow me: disciples follow Jesus and long to learn, know and follow his teachings…

"Lean on me, when you're not strong, I'll be your friend. I'll help you carry on. For, It won't be long, till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on." Some of us remember this song. I remember we sang it all the time on family vacations. We even started singing…

I have been reading a couple of books by Jim Putman, pastor of a church in Iowa, and he has helped me begin to see how we will be able to implement a new plan and measure success in a different way. I recommend reading his book REAL LIFE DISCIPLESHIP. I get so encouraged when…

We moved and the packing and most of the unpacking is completed.  One of the good things about unpacking is the new appreciation you get for those things that spur memories from years ago.  When Brenda and I were first married, as a celebration of my graduation from Princeton Seminary, we went to Europe to…

I was talking with my son last week and got a sense from his voice that he needed a little life encouragement, so I went to his house and put a new set of stairs in for him.  Now that may seem like an odd response but I knew he needed more than words.  When…