One of the things that troubles me most about ministry talk in the church is how often we elevate monetary and physical resources above human ones and how this juxtaposition of values can undermine our ultimate mission. It seems to me that Church history would indicate that some of our healthiest seasons have been when … Continue reading One of the things that troubles me most …
Blog Archive
“Everything We Need for Revival”
Last summer, our congregation in Viimsi celebrated the completion of a seven year construction project. Church leaders from all over the area came to offer their blessings. Among the congratulations offered that day, the director of a local Bible School encouraged us that we now had “everything we need for a revival.” While I’m sure he meant well, his comment left me puzzled. I sat in my seat wondering what things we had now that we didn’t have before that could possibly account for the presence or absence of revival.
Vancouver Immersions
This is a short reflection paper I wrote for a course entitled "Breaking the Chains: Resisting Structural and Personal Evil" taught by Bob Ekblad in Fall of 2005. Our assignment was to visit and observe a poor district and a business district of Vancouver for two hours each and to write a reflection paper on … Continue reading Vancouver Immersions
Mission Team Guide to Estonia
Welcome to Estonia! "Make yourself at home, but don't forget that you're a guest." GENERAL CUSTOMS Meeting or greeting Give a firm handshake with a few good shakes and bow your head slightly. Think “dignity”. Visiting a home Do not pay some one a surprise visit. Always make arrangements first. (Door to door salesmen and … Continue reading Mission Team Guide to Estonia
Missionary Professionalism?
The following is a paper I wrote for Pastoral Ethics in the Fall semester of 2005. When I first entered the mission field after graduating from college, I did so as an intern. I was sent to serve alongside a small congregation in Estonia working to support the youth ministry. I had committed two years … Continue reading Missionary Professionalism?