Authenticity
The Poverty of Loneliness
Did you know that Mother Teresa defined America’s poverty as loneliness? She said people have a “hunger for love and a hunger for God.” I think she was on to something. We all know what it’s like to be lonely and ache for a place to belong and be loved. As Christians we have a …
What Does God Want Me to Do?
Should I quit my job and look for something new? Should I move? Should I take on this ministry? Should I create this boundary? Should I go forward in this relationship? Should I back off of this relationship? Should I say something? Should I keep my mouth shut? What should I do? What is the …
A Dozen Do’s and Don’ts for Sharing Your Story
One of the best things we can do to connect with others in an authentic way is to share our story. Everyone benefits. The more we allow ourselves to be known the more we open ourselves up to be loved. Being loved and known is powerful and transforming. It frees us from shame, helps us …
The Mistake Most Pastors Make
Want to know what one of the biggest mistakes in our ministry has been? I’ll tell you. It has to do with confidentiality. My husband and I get to hear a lot of confession where people share secrets with us that they have never shared with another soul. We want people to feel safe, so …
Take this Wild Challenge
Authentic community doesn’t just happen. I sure wish it did. Authentic community happens as a bi-product of lots of invitations and conversations. It’s risky and awkward, a bit like dating. We have to put ourselves out there. We have to share our stories, our time and our tables. So here is a challenge to help …
3 Steps to Forgive that Don’t Require Sweet Feelings
If the requirements and fruit of forgiveness are sweet feelings, then I’m in trouble. I’d have to manufacture them and that would take all the authenticity out of my efforts to forgive. I need a way to forgive that’s accessible to the angry, bitter and broken. It needs to be something I’m capable of doing …
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It’s Personal
I’m passionate about creating authentic community and meaningful connections. I believe it is only meaningful when we make it personal. We have to open up our own raw stories and gently host and encourage the raw stories of others. This is scary stuff! The truth is that we can only love each other to the …