More Imaginative Prayers for Egypt

Two and a half years ago, on the front edge of the so-called Arab Spring, the nation of Egypt convulsed as protestors engaged in mass demonstrations and the government responded with force and curfews.  Eventually the government collapsed, the protestors celebrated their freedom, and the hard, risky work of writing a constitution, reforming a government, …

Why No Time For Silence

A week ago, after George Zimmerman was found not guilty of murdering Trayvon Martin, my friend Patrick McNeal and I insisted that it was “no time for silence,” that the church should “talk about” what happened.  We meant more than to comment or share our opinion of the trial.  We meant that the verdict, and …

No Time for Silence

Last Saturday a Florida Jury acquitted Mr. George Zimmerman in the death of 17 year old Trayvon Martin, and catalyzed an escalating movement of protest and resolve throughout the nation.  While many contend that neither Martin’s death nor the verdict was motivated by race, many others would disagree.  In the midst of that argument, several …

Collateral Repair

We’re all familiar with the concept of “collateral damage.”  In a military operation there may be unintended destruction resulting in injury and death, even of the innocent, even in a day when laser technology allows for greater precision in the use of weapons with massive destructive potential.  In some circles, leaders expect a certain amount …

FORGETTING TO REMEMBER

I enjoy the” hinge” connecting the old and new year.  For a couple weeks we commonly look back to recall the most memorable or important or funny or stupid things that happened in the year past.  Likewise, we anticipate the things we will do in the New Year—both the things we vow not to do …