Echoes and Stars

1. Moms, do you remember when almost every other post on Facebook was some novel variation on how to be a better mom? Do you remember how it destroyed all your confidence and joy? Do you remember how it often made you want to give up? Do you remember how debilitating it was and how it affected every part of your life because the guilt felt like an anvil on your soul?

That is what is happening with racism.

2. The gospel according to John is an inexhaustible mine of precious gems.

3. Not only is money deadly, the dream of money is too.

4. From now on, when I talk to men about going in to the ministry, I am going to ask them how comfortable they are at funerals and hospitals.

5. I am consistently amazed at the wisdom of Dallas Willard.

6. My prediction is we will see a mass exit from the church due to the pandemic. Those who were on the periphery or only attended because of programs and children’s events will fall away. They were not animated by a desire to follow Jesus so much as by tradition and convenience. They can get community at the ball field and the country club. Cultural Christianity may very soon be a thing of the past.

7. Obedience and joy are inextricably linked for the Christian.

8. I did the funeral of a friend I have known for over 40 years. That was a first and was bittersweet. Trying to comfort family and friends you have known that long is something very different. Beautiful but different.

9. The irony of fasting is how it not only helps you pray but causes feasting to be a help in prayer also.

10. The value of books and music outside of your current context is they give you perspective outside of your current social media feeds.