My grandparents collected beach glass. It’s what old people do for lack of purpose, thought my late-twenties self. (Though, to be fair, I did envy their shark’s teeth collection.) Over time, I realized their glass gathering was an evening unwind after their work was finished. They spent their days volunteering, praying for church and family matters, […]
Category: Influence & leadership
Fishing in all weather
There are days I wouldn’t fish off the wall. Though pleasant — blue skies, great views, no crowds — there’s danger afoot. Spring hasn’t sprung, and the water is frigid. Mid-thirties frigid. Which is why we marveled at a rain-slickered man, working his lines, all by himself. It was unsettling. One absent-minded move and all could […]
7 reasons for patience in relationships
We all behave in ways we regret. Poor choices, bad timing, ill-chosen words. I recall an outburst that brought tears to my hearer. Who wouldn’t pay dearly to redo such a scene and choose kindness instead? Here are seven reasons to choose patience in the moment. 1. Inexperience takes time to overcome. Have you ever been […]
Attending a hundred churches
I’ve attended over a hundred churches. Most were visits while searching for “home.” Some were on trips spanning a weekend. And a few were simply to see what goes on in there. Of the “home” churches, there were Christian Reformed, Brethren, Baptist, nondenominational, and Evangelical Free. The circle of “visited” churches stretches to include Anglican, […]
Setting examples
I work with two men who are weeks from turning eighty. They travel the world, zealous for a cause, influencing millions. Both are humble, friendly, sincere, and generous. They live in the present, tell the truth, love their enemies, and view challenges as opportunities. Both attended Moody Bible Institute back in the day, follow Jesus Christ […]