It is not hard to diagnose the level of distraction we face in our cultural moment. Endless feeds that scroll and scroll by, Advertisements everywhere we turn, Cultural voices saying “buy this and you’ll be happier!” “consume this and you’ll feel better!” And perhaps we’ve gotten so used to the “24 hour news cycle” that we don’t even feel its … Read More

St. John, in his Gospel, records John the Baptist saying of Jesus, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” St. John was inviting the crowds then, and us still, to slow down, look up, pay attention, “the lamb of who takes away the sin of the world.” There is so much vying for our … Read More

When I was in college, I would occasionally take the train from Wheaton into Chicago to visit the Art Institute. I didn’t meander through the galleries in any intentional order or direction, but each time without fail, I found myself in the same grand room in the ‘Painting and Sculpture of Europe’ section, sitting on a small bench, staring up … Read More

One of the perks (gifts!) of serving as a pastor at a college church like Pillar is the vicarious nature of life with students. There is an exquisite privilege in watching them grow up in all things into Christ our Lord: forming friendships, building Christian character, discovering the adventure of “faith seeking understanding,” and even becoming captivated by Christ along … Read More

There’s a beautiful practice that I’ve been led through – and in turn have led others through, both in larger groups and individually. It’s a type of prayer and meditation that draws on visualization, and has resulted in powerful moments of the participant being captivated by Christ. I’d encourage you to try it out – or even better, to ask … Read More

Lord God, heavenly Father, we thank you that you have granted us to live in the time of your favor when we may hear your holy gospel, know your fatherly love and behold your Son, Jesus Christ! Most merciful Father, let the light of your holy Word remain with us, and govern and guide our hearts by your Holy Spirit … Read More