Category: Faith

Moments of Small Grace
Christian Leadership, Christianity, Culture, Devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Life

Moments of Small Grace

Yesterday, I experienced a glory sighting as it relates to our use of technology.

We had another visit to the doctor to check on the progress of our baby, which we are affectionately calling “Little Fry” until it is born. Doctors offices, even when I’m not the one being evaluated, are always a stressful encounter for me. This time, though, was something quite different. It was a holy moment.

We got to see our baby.

The first ultrasound was a rough experience and we didn’t get much of a view of our child. This time, though, we were able to see its movement, activity, and its gigantic head! Yes, all babies have a big head … but this thing was huge!

It was awesome to see and experience. Continue reading “Moments of Small Grace”

Never Give Up
Christian Leadership, Christianity, Culture, Devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Life

Never Give Up

I remember my ordination day like it was yesterday. It took place at the Sloan Convention Center in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which, as far as I’m concerned, is the holiest Holiday Inn and convention center in operation.

Several members of my family, friends, and church members were there with us either in person in Bowling Green or watching online. I truly believe that ordination is not the blessing of God upon one person to lead the church forward, but a time to celebrate how God brings a community together to raise up one pastor. Abbi was with me on the stage, Noah was with our family in the congregation, and I was surrounded by pastors who had mentored me and Bishop Fairley. I am still humbled by that moment, being Bishop Fairley’s first ordained elder, and hearing the words as he placed his hand on my head, “Shannon, take thou the authority.”

It was a holy moment. It was also one that almost didn’t happen. You see, just a year before I almost walked away from the church and my calling. Continue reading “Never Give Up”

Seeking Deeper Discipleship
Christian Leadership, Christianity, Culture, Devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Life

Seeking Deeper Discipleship

I teach two Bible studies each week. It is really the same Bible study that is just offered at different times, so more people can engage the Scriptures and our understanding of faith. Teaching is not something I thought I would enjoy when I entered ministry, but it has become one of my favorite things that I do each week.

What I love about Bible study with other members of the church is that I get to gather with different groups of people to talk about faith, life, and contemplate upon what does it mean to the love the Lord and live for God. I love that part of the life of faith!

One of my ministry principles when it comes to teaching is that we should not be afraid to wrestle with difficult and hard things about faith and life. I believe this leads us to a deeper faith, and discipleship, because it moves us from just accepting something at face value and to, truly, engage what it is that we believe about God, humanity, and the life of faith.

What is involved in not being afraid to deal with difficult and hard things about life and faith? Continue reading “Seeking Deeper Discipleship”

Doing the Unexpected
Christian Leadership, Christianity, Culture, Devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Life

Doing the Unexpected

So, February was an interesting month.

Maybe it wasn’t for you, but it certainly was for me. It started with a trip to the Holy Land where I led 20 others to experience the sites that are holy and sacred to our faith. A few days after touching down, I visited to doctor to figure out why I passed out in Newark after clearing customs. A few days later, I was here in Huntington to meet with members of our Staff Parish Relations Team for the first time and to begin to dream about what this season of life would look like for you, for our church, and our family. After that, I went to St. Louis.

I didn’t go to catch a glimpse at Busch Stadium or to eat good barbecue at Sugarfire. I did, however, do both of those things. I was there for General Conference.

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of General Conference, let me give you a quick synopsis. It is the lone body that can speak on behalf of the entire United Methodist Church. The appointed body gathers to pray, worship, and discern where God is leading us over the next four years. The work of that body and its deliberative process is what comprises our Book of Discipline, which is our covenant between God and one another for how we seek to live out our faith and organize ourselves. Continue reading “Doing the Unexpected”

Can You Be Friends With Your Social Opposite?
Christian Leadership, Christianity, Culture, Devotion, Encouragement, Faith, Life

Can You Be Friends With Your Social Opposite?

I’ve spent a lot of time on the couch this week. That is what happens when you are not feeling well and are recovering from passing out in worship.

I took advantage of the rest by enjoying the day simply relaxing and getting some things done for the week. I caught up on my DVR recordings of new shows. I can vouch for the quality of “Bluff City Law” and “All Rise,” while I believe the jury is still out on “Carol’s Second Act.” I also played more than my fair share of games on my tablet. And I got caught into a story that made its way around the news cycle Tuesday.

The story focused on comedienne and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres receiving backlash for sitting with former President George W. Bush at a recent football game. Yes, you read that correct. One of the biggest stories of the day was a talk show host and a former president sharing nachos while watching the Cowboys.

Why? Continue reading “Can You Be Friends With Your Social Opposite?”