Expecting the Return of Your Prodigal

The parable of the prodigal son is one of the most familiar stories in the Bible. The son who leaves, squanders, and returns. The son who stays and stews. One part of the story that sticks with me, though, is passed over quickly in Luke’s narrative. The time lapse. How long was the Prodigal younger … Read more

When Pride Falls, Grace Rises

Silhouetted, leafless tree on a rocky islet in a calm lake at sunset, with fiery orange sky and snow-dusted mountains reflected on the water's surface.

Pride, like any character trait, can be beneficial or detrimental. Merriam-Webster’s definitions illustrate both aspects. On one hand, pride is a “sense of one’s own worth.” On the other, it’s “inordinate self-esteem, an unreasonable conceit, insolence or arrogance of demeanor.” Why would God instill such a trait in us? Because “a sense of one’s own … Read more

Should I Use Someone’s Preferred Pronouns?

Young man shrugging with palms up, wearing a red plaid shirt over a white tee, looking surprised against a gray background.

Megan called me one afternoon to talk about a female coworker transitioning to become a man. “She’s my friend,” Megan said, “She wants me to use her preferred male name and pronouns, but I care about her health and emotional well-being. How can I demonstrate my love, respect, and concern for her without compromising my … Read more