It can be a bit of a challenge to minister to neighborhood families due to today’s incredible busyness and cultural distractions. Nonetheless, our communities need the love of Christ more than ever, so a continued effort for outward ministry is absolutely necessary. But how do we get our own families involved? Here are five family-friendly … Read more
Noise. It is everywhere, whether we like it or not, invading our senses and distracting focus. We are surrounded by media, technology, traffic, society…Noise is not always audible, though. Sometimes we create our own mental clutter and prevent ourselves from peace. Our minds become a volley of tasks, worries, and preoccupations, and our schedules add … Read more
I recently had an experience that reminded me again of the importance of infusing pride, presence, passion, and purpose in each and every action we undertake. I went to the Red Cross center to donate blood, and was rather disappointed by the nurse taking care of me…Her attitude was rather hurried and hassled as she … Read more
Children’s church or big church? That is the question many parents are asking lately. When I began in ministry, back in 1997, (oh my!) children’s churches weren’t wildly popular in my area but over the years, the trend has caught on. Now I am happy to report we have some amazing ministries that reach children of … Read more
My son was learning about parts of speech this year. We started with nouns: people, places, and things. Then we moved onto verbs: action. That’s what got me thinking about the Bible. Most people think that it’s a noun. Well, it’s a thing, right? Technically, yes. It’s a book made of paper and binding. But, … Read more
Most of us like to avoid hardship and difficulty. We do not seek out harsh conditions or frustrating periods. But God makes it clear that our faith grows stronger not in the beautiful mountaintop feelings of joy and elation, but in the dark valleys of struggle and doubt. As ministry workers it is important for … Read more
Just like any other career stress is also present in children’s ministry. No matter what they say, stress can happen to anyone when put in the right situation. Now take a deep breath and forgive yourself for that. You are not superhuman and you are not a machine. You are real person, a Christian — … Read more
Children’s pastors are like magical unicorns, strange creatures that are largely misunderstood — that is if you believe the myths about children’s pastors. Having been involved in children’s ministry for over 20 years I can assure you that I have heard just about everything. I am not offended by what I have heard just amused … Read more
Encountering frustration in ministry comes with the territory, but when is it time to really call it quits? Believers can have the misconception – like I did – that a ministry will be instantly successful if it’s a true calling from God, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. It’s simply not the pattern … Read more
Because all life is important to God, it’s never too early to introduce Sanctity of Life to children. This is core value of the Christian faith – that all people matter because they reflect God’s image. It’s much bigger than the political drama in the USA regarding abortion or the pro-life movement. Each January is … Read more