The Rambling Disciple

I talk a lot on this blog about negative trends and problems that I see in the church. Sometimes I do it directly and other times it is by way of discussing something that I think is important that isn't being addressed much. At the moment it seems to me that a lot of Christian podcasts, news outlets, and other general commentators are doing a lot of work unveiling some of the deeply imbedded rot and sin infecting many churches and institutions.  Though a painful thing this is a necessary step in true healing and repentance. Sin and evil must be brought into the light, kicking and screaming if needed. However, all this negative attention can give the impression that the Church is collapsing and that there is nothing redeeming to be found. This simply isn't true. Here are a couple of trends in our culture and churches that I think are positive, cause for hope, and a sign that God is still at work. 1. Openness to Spirituality - One very positive thing I've been noticing in o...

Why are you a Christian? I wonder how many of us have been asked that question in our lives. I know I have. It took me by surprise when I received however many years ago. At the time I honestly didn't know how to answer. This was, in part, due to my being an introvert and liking time to process answers to questions but it was also due to the fact that at the time I'm not sure if I really knew. Having served in ministry coming upon seven years I've been able to interact with and better understand the reasons why different people identify as Christian. Some value the community and sense of family a local congregation brings. Others love the worship and singing. Still others see it more as a political statement than a faith commitment. Some want to go to heaven when they die, and others simply want to avoid hell. Years ago I think the reason I was a Christian was because I didn't know any other way of living. Church was just a part of what you did in life. I was told God w...

Today marks the beginning of Lent, a season of repentance, self reflection, and contemplation of the Cross of Christ. Traditionally this is a period marked by fasting, prayer, and confession of sins. I encourage everyone to use this time to think about the gravity of sin and our utter need for the grace of God. I want to share an ancient prayer of Alfred the Great, a king of England from the 800s. I hope it encourages you during this time of Lent. "Lord God Almighty, shaper and ruler of all creatures, we pray for your great mercy, that you guide us towards you, for we cannot find our way. And guide us to your will, to the need of our soul,  for we cannot do it ourselves. And make our mind steadfast in your will and aware of our soul's need. Strengthen us against the temptations of the devil, and remove from us all lust and every unrighteousness, and shield us against our foes, seen and unseen. Teach us to do your will, that we may inwardly love you before all things with a pur...