Sometimes I feel like we have gotten away from the reason for holidays For example, this weekend is Memorial Day. It was created over a century ago to remember those who died in our nation’s service. All over the country on Monday, people will assemble at cemeteries and other places to honor those who have [...]

It often seems as though we love freedom, but we’re not so fond of responsibility. On a broader, societal scale, I personally believe this is one of the underlying issues that we face a nation. People want to be able to do what they want without having to face the consequences or responsibility that often [...]

On Thursday, May 20, I had the honor of offering the invocation for the Michigan State Senate. Following the prayer, I went upstairs and sat in the gallery. A few minutes later, one of the state senators stepped to a microphone and began to read a dedication for Army Sgt. Lucas Beachnaw, who was killed [...]

Here is the text of the invocation I delivered at the Michigan Senate on Thursday, May 20, 2010:

Father, today we begin by praying for those in this chamber and their families. We thank you for the loved ones who sacrifice time with these men and women so they are able to engage in the work [...]

I have really enjoyed the first half of our month-long class, “Being Jesus in a Diverse World.” It has been interesting to learn more about Judaism and Islam, as well as listening to and interacting with a Rabbi and an Imam.
In my opinion, one of the most important things about our Wednesday night guests has [...]

On this day in 1970, I entered the world. The last four decades have been filled with joy and sorrow, victories and failures. I have seen relatives born. I have seen loved one die. I’ve gotten married. I have a child. I have graduated from college, twice. I have changed addresses over a dozen times. [...]

As I think about Mother’s Day, I think about the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” While much has been made about these words since Hillary Clinton used them as a title for a book and in her campaign, I want to consider them in light of the call for the [...]

It’s hard to believe that in less than a week I will turn 40!
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who was a part of my surprise party last weekend! It was truly a blessing to spend the evening with so many of you. Thank you for the gifts, cards, food, and most [...]

Check out this video from the O Caminho Church in Niteroi, Brazil. I met one of the members of the team, Juliana, when she was a member at a church in Belo Horizonte. It is amazing to see how God is using her now to minister to her native country.

Do you have a hard time listening?
I know that I often have a hard time listening. Sure, I can hear. But do I listen?
I often find myself in conversation thinking about my response before the other person is done talking. So rather than really listening, I am half-listening. This is even true in my relationship [...]