1. The other day I posted, “Hope is exhausting.” Many agreed. Others did not understand. They took “exhausting” as a pure negative to the point that it bled over into hope having a negative edge. But that is not true. There are a lot of enjoyable things that are exhausting. Hiking and running, for instance. I was simply naming something I hadn’t heard anyone ever name. That hope is exhausting. It is true, some will forgo hope because they have been exhausted by it before, just as they will forgo the hike because they prefer the couch. But it needs to be said that hope is exhausting. Hope for the things in this world and our hope of heaven. But I think sitting by those who are struggling with hope and acknowledging “hope is exhausting” is a kindness.
2. I feel like the storage shed of information I would like to tell my parents is filling up quickly and another will have to be constructed.
3. I know we still have a Jason Isbell record coming but it’s gonna have to be unbelievably good to beat out Nikki Lane’s Highway Queen, as my favorite record of 2017.
4. One of the strengths of Tim Keller’s ministry no one really talks about is the kindness with which he treats his listeners. He is never shrill or condescending. Always considerate towards his assumed listener. Belief and trust in the power of the message will do this.
5. Last night we sat outside with our neighbors and ate Conecuh sausage, field peas, greens, cornbread and watermelon at dusk. It was a perfect evening.
6. I think the reason I always go back to Springsteen is even when I don’t like him, I believe him. Those songs remind me of the human condition and everyone has story lines stretching back further than I can see.
7. I suppose everyone in pastoral ministry has someone whose books have influenced them in a unique way. When I think about the writings of Eugene Peterson, I get more emotional than makes any sense to even myself. My pastoral nerves are sensitive at that point.
8. Even though the Cardinals look bad and my fantasy team lost week one, it is still better to have a week of baseball than a week without.
9. Reading poetry will keep you out of the tepid reservoir of cliches.
10. Driving to Pennsylvania this week to speak at a conference. Please pray that the van makes it there. Not too worried about getting back.
Echoes and Stars 
#1 – totally agree with the last line…thx for saying it. Going through that with 3 family members at this time.
#6 – this is how I view Billy Joel, for the same reasons.
#8 – same for the Braves…
I really like #4: One of the strengths of Tim Keller’s ministry no one really talks about is the kindness with which he treats his listeners.
You’re absolutely right.