Inward Transformation to the Outward Expression of Life
The lessons I teach my children are important. Taking time to teach them the Scriptures and to discuss how the gospel applies to our lives is vital. But my life will ultimately aim their hearts toward what I deem to be of greatest worth by the investment of my time, talent, and treasure.
Philosopher James K. A. Smith has a lot to say about the power of liturgies in shaping or forming our hearts. They do this by focusing our hearts on a telos (end), or a vision of the good life, through repetition or habit. I agree with him that whatever we have as that vision—that end... Continue Reading →
Several years ago I offered some advice to parents on how Christian families should think through involvement in extra-curricular activities. My own kids have now been involved in different activities, and our oldest has entered the world of middle school. This has caused me to consider how Erin and I should help them understand their objectives for each activity. What should be their primary goals? What is the WHY that governs their HOW and WHAT, so to speak? As I have thought about this I decided it would be good to put these thoughts into writing as I prepare to formally set this before them.
Hey T Swift! It’s us. You know, the tall, "handsome as hell" bad guys who "do it so well." We’ve been following your career and music for some time now, and our appreciation for you just continues to skyrocket. It’s funny, we never thought we would say that, but you have no idea how... Continue Reading →
I highly recommend this book, and hope that many parents I know will buy it and read it. I want to offer some reflection that I hope will either provoke others to read the book for themselves, or at least share some of the more practical takeaways for us. So, this will not be a 'book review,' but rather a brief summary of the 4 most practical points of application that Erin and I have already begun to put into practice in our home.
There may be no greater time for parents to both teach and illustrate grace to their children than at Christmas time. Grace is the very reason for the holiday in the first place. We set aside a special time each year to celebrate the coming of Jesus as a baby in a manger. John writes... Continue Reading →
How should believers go about deciding what extra-curricular activities their children should participate in? How relevant is this question to every believing parent!? I have heard this debated and heard so many very strong opinions on the matter. Basically, I have encountered two extremes, though, in which almost everyone seems to belong. First, there are... Continue Reading →
My good friend and partner in the gospel, Ron Young (Church planter in Quebec), posted an article on Facebook this past week by Dr. Albert Mohler. The article is linked below, but offers an overview of the evolution of public education. This evolution has not been a good one, and Dr. Mohler clearly offers a... Continue Reading →
There are some sayings that have just become second nature. I have heard them all of my life. I find myself sometimes blurting these sayings out, especially to my kids, without thinking twice. Sometimes I am struck just after such an outburst by the fact that I have never really thought about what that saying... Continue Reading →
There may be no greater time for parents to both teach and illustrate grace to their children than at Christmas time. Grace is the very reason for the holiday in the first place. We set aside a special time each year to celebrate the coming of Jesus as a baby in a manger. John writes... Continue Reading →
know. be. do. 