Certain pressures accompany the role of pastoral ministry. If pastors don't have a way to relieve that pressure, their world can easily become dark, lonely, and isolated. It's similar to the one in the pool with their eyes closed calling out “Marco!" But they find no one to respond.

We often think that we need to be a long haul trucker to reach a long haul trucker. Or maybe we need to be a biker to reach a biker. Pastor Marty and Pastor David have shown us with their example that we can learn a new culture and (like Paul says) become like that culture for the sake of the gospel. In so doing, we will share its blessings.

Most of what we experienced this year echos a sense of loss—the fading music and the constant erosion of things we took for granted. I know I'm not alone in feeling the strain. Fortunately for me, however, God's grace in 2020 has reminded me of the things that are most important—and all the things that are not.

Christians are not unifying people. Or people who are not Christians don't think we are. We have certain beliefs and practices that put us at odds with the culture at large. However, Christianity is built on certain counter-intuitive ideas that inspire awe and draw people together in unity.

6 in 10. That's the number put out by Lifeway Research concerning the number of churches in North America that are plateaued or declining in number. That's grim news. We mourn the 6 in 10 because of the loss of gospel witness. So we must work to see church renewal starting here in Houston.

It often surprises me, as I consult with churches and church leadership, that many congregations have elected a Personnel Committee but there is no clear direction given to them. There's no definition of expectation. What is a Personnel Committee supposed to do?

What if you as a committee resolved to encourage, equip, and resource church leadership?

People who pray for their pastors usually say they ask the Lord to bless sermon preparation—and for good reason. The Sunday sermon is the best opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of the most people. Yet there are many other reasons to intercede on behalf of the shepherds of the Lord’s congregation. Here are ten often-overlooked ways to pray for pastors.

If we know anything about disaster relief, it's that preparation for relief must take place long before a disaster strikes. That's why Houston Responds has developed The Willing & Able program to help congregations prepare for disaster and coordinate their response with other congregations in their community. Learn more about how your church can be prepared to act when disaster strikes.

If Houston were a country, it would rank fourth in the world for refugee resettlement. Houston welcomed Vietnamese boat people in the 1970’s. In 2001, Houston opened its doors to thousands of refugees from Hurricane Katrina. And now, Houston continues to receive refugees fleeing persecution, war, or violence from over forty countries. But what is it like once these refugees arrive, and what kind of support do they still need?

This week, we're featuring an excellent conversation from the Replant Bootcamp Podcast. Dr. James Hawkins discusses how to stay emotionally healthy during a time of crisis. With the heaviness of so many current events, we could all use Dr. Hawkins’ practical advice on how to develop and maintain our emotional health.