In recent posts we explored the differences between contemplative and evangelical streams of Christianity. Here are several ideas that I think every church can reflect on, and hopefully, implement — as steps the congregation can take to foster a contemplative dimension to their community life. This will not happen overnight (among other things, we have our cultural bias against silence... Continue Reading
In our last post we looked at a comparison of the language, emphases and practices between Evangelical Christianity and Contemplative-Mystical Christianity. In this post we share 11 additional comparisons. I share once again some introductory comments. A Definition Of Each Movement Mainstream Evangelicalism Definition: A movement within Protestant Christianity maintaining that the essence of the gospel consists in the doctrine... Continue Reading
In recent years I have come across two types of evangelical Christians who are interested in contemplative-mystical Christianity: Some are actively practicing evangelical Christians in their local church but frustrated by what they perceive as the lack of spiritual nurturing taking place. Often this is expressed as a feeling of being stuck in their spiritual growth and as desire to... Continue Reading
How do members actually think about major changes in the church? The “prospect theory” from behavioral economics can provide some insights. The prospect theory argues that most individuals do not weigh decisions objectively, rather, they are influenced by whether they think they have something to gain or something to lose. For instance, in a classic experiment researchers asked one group... Continue Reading
I’ve always found it ironic that the church is so resistant to change. The first words out of Jesus’ mouth when he began his public ministry was “repent,” “be transformed,” or “change” (Matthew 4:17). Further, the Christ story is an archetype for how God is changing all things through the pattern of life, death, and new life. Jesus went on... Continue Reading
Our lives, our churches, and our businesses are being influenced by an increasing number of complex political, social, and economic forces every day. The stakes are higher and how we navigate the changes associated with these complex forces is more important than ever. There are many theories and practices of change leadership and management that can prove helpful in times... Continue Reading
Have you heard the story of the Russian Pilgrim and the Jesus Prayer told in the “Way of the Pilgrim”? It’s a heart-warming and unforgettable story of how God brought healing and transformation to a lonely, depressed man. His amazing story begins this way: Born From A Desire To “Pray Without Ceasing” One day in the early 1800’s a poor young... Continue Reading
It is safe to say that unless we are committed and faithful to some form of prayer we will most likely never experience transformation. In the Christian tradition, spiritual reading, meditation and contemplation are aspects of a prayer life committed to the process of self-transformation. And, as we shall see, these three forms of prayer are interconnected. What Is Spiritual... Continue Reading
In his book, The Mystic in You: Discovering a God-Filled World, Theologian Bruce G. Epperly describes the lives, faith, and spiritual practices of saints and mystics in the difficult days of the Middle Ages. What he says about one of those mystics, Lady Julian of Norwich, is most applicable to these days of struggle, pain, and suffering caused by the... Continue Reading
In these days of world-wide suffering and uncertainty, consider gazing upon the cross of Jesus Christ and letting its depth of meaning and symbolism evoke questions to ponder, pray, and reflect upon. The Symbolism of the Cross From early Christians to today, the cross has symbolized the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and His sufferings and subsequent death and resurrection. Over the... Continue Reading
These are indeed extraordinary times we are living through. The COVID-19 Crisis and the constant media coverage has created an air of anxiety we all are breathing. And, our bodies are carrying this stress and palpable sense of dread whether we realize it or not. The Welcoming Prayer is a contemplative practice that can help sustain you through these uncertain... Continue Reading
Responding well to the Coronavirus demands spiritual resilience. Father Richard Rhor reminds us that one practice Christianity has developed over the centuries to nurture resilience is “lamentation.” Prayers of lamentation arise in us when we speak to God and one another about how stunned, sad, and silenced we are by the tragedy of human events, such as the COVID-19 Crisis.... Continue Reading
Jim is a Church Organizational Leadership and Management Coach, Consultant and Trainer. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated a passion for showing Pastors and Ministers how to use organizational tools for church and personal growth and health.
More About Jim“For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.” Colossians 2:5