Expect the Return

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 younger son … Read more

When Pride Falls, Grace Rises

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 with a puzzled expression shrugging with palms up in a red plaid shirt over a white T-shirt 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