Father’s Day always reminds me of what matters most in life. It brings many cherished things to the front and centre of my mind, as well as challenges to ponder in my lifelong parenting apprenticeship. Today I breathe in deep and appreciate the sheer joy, privilege and delight of being a father. I celebrate the … Continue reading The legacy we are writing today!
Faith
We made it to here!
“But, if we made it to here, maybe we have everything it takes to make it to there?” While taking in the beauty of the Ligurian coastline over recent days, the words of Will Small’s wonderful, pandemic-season poem “We Made it to Here” have been on my mind. The line above came into my head as I … Continue reading We made it to here!
The beauty of St Dunstan’s
St Dunstan in the East church garden is a hidden London gem. I’m so glad I made a visit last week. And beyond its beauty and peacefulness, I will remember the garden as the place I got to road test the emergency call function on my watch. Yes, while taking photos and breathing in this … Continue reading The beauty of St Dunstan’s
Three Rs!
In our rapidly changing world, in the midst of uncertainty and anxiety, and navigating between the world that was and the world still to be, leadership is demanding, tiring and stretching. There are added, unique challenges confronting Christian leaders. In such a context, I need to keep reminding myself that I cannot do effective leadership … Continue reading Three Rs!
Painful but valuable lessons!
It’s almost been six months since I had spinal surgery. My hope was that the surgery would reduce, or even better, rid me of the pain I have been living with over recent years. My surgeon tells me that his intervention has significantly reduced my risk of experiencing paraplegia. Now that’s a big win, but … Continue reading Painful but valuable lessons!
What should Christians do about guns?
“I know of churches that would never hire a pastor who smoked but have shooting events at their yearly men’s retreats. I know Christian parents who warn their kids about the dangers of marijuana use but don’t hesitate to buy them firearms. I know conservative people of faith who affirm the need for legal and … Continue reading What should Christians do about guns?
Sent!
Sent.Not to holy huddles,Not to chapels of comfort,Not to houses of homogeneity,Not to platforms of power,Not to celebrity circuits,Not to discriminating dogmas,Not to arenas of arrogance,Not to prosperity parade,Not to self-serving sanctuaries. No, Risen Christ, remind me on this Easter Monday, you send me, in humility, into the messiness of this world, to uncomfortable places, … Continue reading Sent!
For such a time as this!
Over the past 12 months, in small villages and towns in Africa and Asia, I’ve had the privilege to sit and listen to some amazing, humble women of faith. I've been inspired by their stories, courage and resilience. I’ve wiped tears from my eyes as they have shared their hopes and dreams for their local … Continue reading For such a time as this!
Thankful!
I’ve joined a new club over recent months. I’ve received membership to shopping centre lounge areas where, without overly stereotyping, older men often sit and wait for shopping family members. I’ve done my bit to bring down the average age of the cohort and I’m hoping my membership is temporary. With a coffee and novel … Continue reading Thankful!
Herods come, Herods go!
Seduced by ego Charmed by power. Threatened by opposition, captivated by pride Fearing anyone who might steal the limelight Herod - the self-consumed King I dare look inside my life again And while I may prefer to ignore it I see some Herod in me I can seek to excuse myself “I haven’t slaughtered innocents” But … Continue reading Herods come, Herods go!
apilgrimpens 