We Just Released A New Book:
Reclaiming the Joy of Church Vocation:
The Way to Wellness for the Non-Ordained in Church and School Ministries
A great way to say “Thank You” to God
Monthly theme: Why Wellness? Reading time: two minutes. “For all this…” is the reason. Self-care is the what. Why wellness? So far this month we’ve discussed resilience, longevity, and witness to the gospel. The fourth answer to “Why wellness?” is “Thank and praise, serve and obey.” When Luther recounts all… Read More
Your wellness is your witness
Monthly Theme: Why Wellness? Reading time: two minutes. I think I know how the flight attendant feels. We’ve both given the “Oxygen Mask” speech thousands of times. We both know most people have heard it endlessly. And we both wonder if anyone is listening. I hope you are. When traveling… Read More
The “Wellness Decline Curve” that will surprise you
Monthly theme: Why Wellness? Reading time: two minutes. Who’s your fitness idol? I hope it’s not the muscle-bound gym freak or the wispy super-model. How about Moses? Moses was a great example of the wellness in decline curve that God designed for us. Here’s what I mean… You can’t fight… Read More
Are you well? Here’s 4 wellness touchpoints for 2023.
Are you well? Here’s 4 wellness touchpoints for 2022. Monthly Theme: Why Wellness? Reading time: two minutes. So, what does flourishing in ministry look like? How do you define wellness? It’s important to have in mind what your spiritual, emotional, physical and vocational health look like when you’re at your… Read More
Christmas blessings from Grace Place Wellness/LCEF
You’ve been a faith-full proclaimer, now be a grace-full receiver of Christmas blessing. May the HOPE of a God who is with us bear you into a new year of gospel ministry. May the PEACE of which angels sang fill your heart as you rest and renew. May the JOY… Read More
Plan to work hard? Plan to recover!
Monthly theme: “Yes, with the help of God!” Reading time: two minutes This week’s calendar says you’ll be working hard. Why not build renewal into next week’s calendar? These next few days have potential to be spiritually draining. Our souls and spirits leak; we’re daily in need of baptismal, spiritual… Read More
Your Christmas family is already at work. Hooray!
Monthly theme: Yes, with the help of God! Reading time: two minutes Here’s the bad news about the Christmas season at your church: There’s more to be done than is humanly possible. Here’s the good news: There’s more to be done than is humanly possible. Yes, that’s good! When the… Read More
They want to know YOUR Christmas story
Monthly theme: “Yes, with the help of God” Reading time: two minutes You defined what your ministry would be in your first day at the church. It may be your best, (and shortest) sermon ever. When you were asked if you were ready to fulfill the duties of your… Read More
Thankful, even for the challenges
Reading time: two minutes You’re entering into one of the most challenging, busy seasons of ministry. I know your heartfelt thanks for all the blessings in your life: family, fitness, food, faith, friends. Can you be thankful in the midst of challenges and hardships, such as those the days ahead… Read More
Are your dollars sneaking out?
Monthly theme: Intentionality Reading time: two minutes When’s the best time to plant a tree? Thirty years ago. When’s the second best time? Today. Our good friend from Concordia Plans, Eustolio Gomez taught this “Canadian Proverb” at about 200 Grace Place retreats! Isn’t it odd how thirty years can seem… Read More
Is poor physical condition sneaky? Well, sometimes.
Monthly theme: Intentionality Reading time: two minutes Fleetwood Mac sang, “I can’t help it ’bout the shape I’m in…” True. Sort of. We’re all born with certain physical limits, some with greater limits than others. The sudden onset of illness or an injury will certainly affect our physical capacity. But… Read More