“I am convinced of this: God is not going to look us over for medals, degrees, or diplomas, but for scars.” -James Gribble
Continue readingA Life-Changing Devotional on Cross-Cultural Ministry
Top Ten Books Read in 2020
This year was unlike any other and Zamyatin’s observation from 100 years ago rings true—”Revolution is everywhere, in everything. It is infinite.”2 I decided to take social distancing and quarantine as opportunities to read more. If anything—with the rise of propaganda, cancel culture, fact checking, revisionist history, conspiracy theories, and just too much information too fast—this year proved our need to read more. “Truth withers long before the roots are pulled.”1 I enjoy sharing those books which have most profoundly challenged and shaped my thinking about life and ministry. You can view my complete reading list from this year on Goodreads here. But these are my favorite books read in 2020 (not necessarily published this year).
Continue readingHow Do We Prepare to Become a Foster Family?
You wouldn’t jump into the deep end of the pool if you didn’t know how to swim. Similarly, becoming a foster parent is not a decision you want to make a whim. It is a major decision that has the potential to significantly alter the course of your life—more than you can anticipate.
Continue readingWhat Is the Purpose of Foster Care?
Our preconceived notions don’t always line up with reality. Rather, they are often fraught with exaggeration or underestimation.
Continue readingThe Unseen Fruit of Our Labor
Sometimes I miss being a painter and working on new construction sites. The visual and tangible results of my efforts were immediately recognizable and satisfying.
Continue reading7 Books That Shaped My Life
Rarely do we close a book unchanged. Reading has the rich capability of radically reorienting us. Our minds are informed, our hearts are formed, and our lives are reformed. Continue reading
FOR A Lifetime—Our Adoption Story
God is the preeminent storyteller. I wouldn’t say I know better than God—His privilege of determining the end from the beginning certainly gives Him a unique advantage—but had it been up to me, I would have made this story much simpler. Continue reading
The American Puritans, Unsung Heroes You Should Get to Know
The American Puritans is a surprising treasure trove of vibrant Christian lives worthy of your contemplation and emulation.
COVID-19 Ruined OUR Adoption Plans
“If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.”
So starts my favorite pro-life movie, Bella. This quote resonates with me because growing up I have told God a lot of things. I told him that I would never be a pastor. I told him I would never leave New England. I told him that 3 kids was enough for me.
But God.
My Top Ten Books Read in 2019
This is the third year that I have committed to reading 50 books (you can view my completed books list on Goodreads here). With the perfect blend of curiosity, intentionality, and tenacity, you can join me in reading more. If you desire this, I have shared my personal tips and tricks on reading more. As I am continually shaped by what I read, I desire to share books worthy of your time and energy. These are my favorite books read in 2019 (not necessarily published this year). As you read through each section, I hope you will see the overlapping and recurring themes. This is one of the joys of reading more. Continue reading
Maximum Mandatum 