Hi everyone! I’m just getting back from vacation. It was so satisfying to spend time with God, my family, friends, a dozen campfires, and (many) books. It’s time for the kids to go back to school, and for me to get back to some routine, pastoring Westminster, and bringing the “Up!” devotional to you five days … Continue reading The moments you’ll never get back
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Never takes a holiday
A lot of you are enjoying the summer. As far as I know, none of you live in the arctic. So most of us are probably doing our best to take in some rays, make a few trips to the beach, and stuff down some ice cream cones in the process. (Unless you’re lactose intolerant. … Continue reading Never takes a holiday
How’d no complaining go?
7 days ago I proposed the 7-Day No-Complaint challenge. (You can see that post here.) The idea was simple. Wear a watch or bracelet, and every time you complain about something irrelevant, switch it to the other wrist. Quite simply, it makes you more aware of how much you’re complaining—and hopefully helps you dial down … Continue reading How’d no complaining go?
Generosity you don’t deserve
Aren't all religions the same? I get asked that sometimes. The short answer is no. And here's one of the reasons why (and why it matters... eternally)
Aren’t all religions basically the same?
It’s a good question. After all, we live in a diverse society, and a lot of religions speak about some kind of higher power and have a version of the golden rule. I can’t fully explore this issue in a short devotional. (To hear a longer podcast about it click on the link below.) But it needs … Continue reading Aren’t all religions basically the same?
The boogeyman?
Kids sometimes imagine there's a boogeyman under their bed. As adults, we don't really think like that anymore. Or do we? Here's a thought about running toward your questions, and not away from them.
That’s what normal awesome people do
Before I became a pastor I had a number of different jobs—and therefore, a number of different bosses. I saw different characteristics at work in each of them. Some were positive, and some were negative. But one of the most problematic bosses was unpredictable. He was so inconsistent that he put everyone on edge. If … Continue reading That’s what normal awesome people do
The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge
Thou shalt not complain. You’re right. It’s not one of the 10 commandments. But the Bible certainly warns against complaining all the time. I think about the ancient Hebrews complaining to Moses in the wilderness. Or Philippians 2:14-15 (NLT) where Paul says this: “Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize … Continue reading The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge
You will never make a good impression if…
Most of us check the mirror in the morning, usually while combing our hair or brushing our teeth. Then we walk away from the mirror. But not really. A lot of us carry an invisible mirror around with us all day. What I mean is that we’re aware of ourselves. We’re aware of the impression we’re … Continue reading You will never make a good impression if…
Credit where credit is due
Imagine your best friend did something wonderful for you—like fix your broken garage door for free. They bought the parts, put in free labour, and even gave it a nice new paint job. The next day, some people come over and admire your spectacular garage door. What do you say? Do you say, “Thanks! I’m … Continue reading Credit where credit is due
