"Why do we need to study theology? I mean, don't we just need to know that Jesus died for our sins and then share that with people?" I uttered these words in complete sincerity three years ago. In high school, I knew I wanted to be a pastor, but I had no interest in theology. Heck, I don't … Continue reading Beautiful Theology
Bible
Where is Jesus in the Political Election?
Have you ever asked that question? Recently this question has been on my mind a lot as the final debates finish and people prepare to vote (or not vote) next month. I've seen a lot of articles, interviews, and news headlines showing where Christians are in this political season. Some are out parading an elephant or a … Continue reading Where is Jesus in the Political Election?
How We Should Enter the Colin Kaepernick Conversation
If you've turned on ESPN, scrolled through Facebook, or listened to sports talk radio in the past few days, then you've probably heard of Colin Kaepernick's controversial decision to not stand during the National Anthem at the 49ers preseason game this past Friday. "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag … Continue reading How We Should Enter the Colin Kaepernick Conversation
The Love Story of May 16th
May 16th. A seemingly insignificant day to most. But on this day in history, a man gave his life in a courageous and breathtaking way. In the 1500s, Roman Catholic Christians were forcing infant baptism upon all Christians. But there was a group who refused to do this believing baptism to be appropriate after a believer converted to Christ. One … Continue reading The Love Story of May 16th
Life as a Tent Dweller
Three months ago while in Israel (yes, yes, I'm still talking about Israel) I had the chance to stay in the Negev Desert in a Bedouin tent. The Bedouins are a desert-dwelling nomadic people group. Their home is not a stationary building or a designated location. Instead, the tent is their home and they reside wherever they … Continue reading Life as a Tent Dweller
Coming Down from the Mountain
As most of you probably know, I spent this past semester studying abroad in Israel and travelling across Europe. From start to finish, this trip has been one of the greatest experiences of my life and I’m completely humbled and utterly grateful for the opportunity God gave me to do all of this. But as … Continue reading Coming Down from the Mountain
The Weight of Sin
As I stood and looked at the street alley beneath my feet lined with used needles, old pregnancy tests, cigarette butts, and empty bottles, I felt the weight of evil surrounding me. This past week I had the chance to serve with a ministry in Tel Aviv called Abundant Life. They reach out to prostitutes in Israel by providing a … Continue reading The Weight of Sin
The Offensive Church
I have a confession to make: I often live my Christian life defensively. But I don't think I'm alone in this. You see, in a world where Satan, sin, and evil run rampant, it's easy to close our eyes and cover our ears in dismay. To become defensive. How can we keep sin out of the … Continue reading The Offensive Church
Why We Should All Remember January 27th {with tears}
Many dates stick in people’s memories—February 14th, July 4th, December 25th—but I doubt January 27th is one that stands out in yours. For most, this date is insignificant. So much so that one website diminishes the importance of the day down to "Chocolate Cake Day"1. The day comes and goes each year with little or no acknowledgement. But for some, this day is … Continue reading Why We Should All Remember January 27th {with tears}
In the Desert of Life
As many now know, I am studying abroad in Israel this semester! I've been here for two and a half weeks and will be here for another two months. It's been an amazing trip so far filled with memories and experiences that I'll carry with me forever. But as I've thought about what to write to … Continue reading In the Desert of Life
A Bounded Heart 