When Bill and Gloria Gaither were anticipating the birth of a child, they were conflicted. On the one hand they were excited about the potential they could envision in this new life; on the other hand, they were troubled by …
Leadership: Palm Sunday Style
Almost obscured by the disciples, who threw down their cloaks as a saddle, and the crowds, who waved palm branches while shouting “Hosanna!”, comes our juxtaposition–Jesus. He is “gentle and riding on a donkey” (Matthew 21:5), or, as prophesied, “lowly …
Books 4 U
This week a pastor wrote to one of our colleagues. He asked for recommendations of books to discuss with his church board (Consistory, Council, Elder Board). The email said, “Could you please recommend to me the 5 best books for …
A TULIP for Leaders
Spring is officially here, at least according to the calendar. In West Michigan, the sure sign of Spring is tulips popping up. We’re getting close!With respect for the five points of Calvinism, allow me to suggest a TULIP for leaders. …
Leadership Lessons from St. Patrick
Of course, you would see St. Patrick as a leader, too, if he banished snakes from your country! Well, that part of the story is a myth. It likely represents the fact that through his ministry he preached against evil, …
Leaders: Grating or Grateful
Over the years, I’ve probably reported to dozens of supervisors. Most have been grateful, some have been grating. You know the difference immediately. By grateful, I am referring to those leaders who express appreciation. They acknowledge, support, and encourage those …
Who Do You Trust?
Can you complete this phrase: “In God we trust. All others __________ __________.”? Society is experiencing a trust deficit.A leader writes, “It isn’t unusual for me to remind our volunteer team, ‘You are a primary trust builder in our ministry!’”* …
Mentoring Leaders
Most of us remember Augustine (345 – 430 AD) for the quotes attributed to him. A book entitled Augustine as Mentor suggests that in addition to being a theologian and bishop of Hippo (today’s Algeria), he played a significant role …
Dream Dream Dream
Two leaders had coffee together recently. After the meeting, one sent the other an email saying, “I’m thankful for having met another man who has the invitation and freedom to follow his dream – and the dream we understand to …
Sticker Prices
Soren Kierkegaard once wrote of a strange break-in at a large store in his native Denmark where the thieves didn’t remove anything. When clerks opened up in the morning, all the merchandise was still there. Instead of stealing the goods, …
