In a world that rarely pauses, the invitation to silence and solitude can feel hard to receive. We meet with pastors, ministry leaders, parents, coaches, artists and the like who say things like “I just don’t have the time to get away.” Many folks assume that the practices of silence

How is your mind today? Not just what are you thinking—but who and what is shaping your thinking? We live in a moment where noise is constant and formation is happening whether we’re paying attention or not. Ideas, opinions, fears, and narratives compete for our attention at a relentless pace.

Did you know that each parable of Jesus is designed to stand alone—each one confronting a single, essential truth? And yet, when we sit with them over time, we begin to realize something more: these stories are not merely teachings to understand, but invitations to trust. As we’ve journeyed through

One of the invitations I often extend to those who long to grow in discernment is simple: put your ear as close to the biblical text as you possibly can. Don’t rush past the story. Don’t skim the surface. Linger long enough that the scene begins to come alive, the

Did you know that each parable Jesus spoke was brief and disarmingly simple—yet endlessly deep? In this season of reflecting on the parables, I’ve been struck again by how these short stories continue to open fresh windows into the heart of God. They are not merely illustrations. They are invitations.

In a recent episode of The Discerning Leader Podcast, I had the joy of sharing a conversation with my friend and colleague, Rev. Jen Kiefer. As Jen shared her story of crafting and living a rule of life, I was once again struck by how God uses the raw material of

Is it time to create—or perhaps review—your personal rule of life? A rule of life is not an aspirational wish list; it is a grace-filled framework that helps us hold together the raw material of our lives with intentionality and hope. When life feels full to overflowing with complexities and

A Hero has Died Caleb passed away on Christmas Eve. He was a gentle and humble man of God. A great leader because he was a fabulous listener and a faithful servant. A true reflection of our Triune God. He loved his family well, with Bonny, his life partner of

The Grand Annual Examen: Through the Lens of Emotions 2025 was an emotion-packed year for me. So, when it was time for me to pay close attention to the past 12 months in my prayer journal, I decided to focus on creating my annual Examen through the lens of emotions

What’s your favorite Christmas movie? In our family, the list includes Elf, Home Alone, A Christmas Carol, Polar Express, Rudolph, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and just about any Hallmark movie (my wife loves a predictably happy ending sentimental love story!). Most intriguing to me is our granddaughter’s fascination with the