When we see the world as it is, and our hearts break and we say “it shouldn’t be this way”, we live as discontenters! When we throw ourselves in to the brokenness and the beauty, and pursue the loving and just ways of Jesus, we live we discontenters! When we pursue shalom in the every … Continue reading It shouldn’t be this way!
Leadership
So little grace
So many Christians, so full of vitriol for our Prime Minister. So quick to throw stones and post things intended to alarm and inflame. So few mentions of praying for him at a time of crisis. So little grace. And I'm left wondering, how do hurtful, vengeful, distasteful words and memes aid a credible, public … Continue reading So little grace
A different chorus
Pastors who sing the MAGA chorus are warmly welcomed at the White House. Pastors who stand for the just ways of Jesus alongside immigrant communities are being harassed, detained, arrested and shot at. The power obsessed have never liked the courageous, humble, just voices of the prophets. It’s an unwanted chorus! “Do not neglect the … Continue reading A different chorus
Double down
As I read the news of the world this morning, my heart ached and I was struck by how dire, overwhelming and chaotic things seem. As I was reading, the words "double down" kept echoing in my mind. They are not words I often use. But yes, they are words for me in a season … Continue reading Double down
Let’s continue to do good!
I – like many of you - have found it hard to fathom this week’s US election result, while seeking to respect that most Americans have now got what they voted for. I have tried to remain silent as many Trump followers on my feed have gloated, misused Scripture, fostered dangerous Christian nationalism, deepened divide … Continue reading Let’s continue to do good!
A champion team!
I’m looking forward to talking "team" with colleagues in Cambodia this week. Building teams is one of the most rewarding things I do. It's a privilege to speak into the life of teams, help them grow and cheer them on. As many of you know, building a healthy, vibrant team isn’t easy. Sometimes it can … Continue reading A champion team!
The difference default
When you get more than 400 people from 65 countries in a room - and throw in that they’re Baptists - you are amid a very diverse bunch. Difference is all around you - be it language, skin colour, dress, equity, cuisine, theology, worship style or preferred football code. And given we were meeting in … Continue reading The difference default
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!
A big difference!
One of my kids recently told me that she hoped to be “a boss” one day. I replied: “Aim higher. Be a leader, not a boss.” She was getting the two ideas confused and I wanted to help her see the big differences! I rattled off the names of some people who have made such … Continue reading A big difference!
We made it to here!
We’ve all been through so much in recent years. We’ve navigated unchartered territory. We’ve lived with anxiety and tiredness. We’ve learnt new lessons about resilience, adaptability and community. We’ve re-examined priorities and questioned things we took for granted. From the global pandemic, to national tragedies and personal challenges, it has been a stretching season. I’ve … Continue reading We made it to here!
apilgrimpens 