JONATHAN C DOW
The East Side of the Jordan
Not too long ago, while sitting in the choir loft during a sermon, I followed a thought along a rabbit trail that led me to Numbers chapter 33. (Sorry, Pastor).
Titled "Stages in Israel's Journey," this passage captures Israel's rest stops on their trek out of Egypt to the Promised Land. It basically reads, "The Israelites left this city . . .
Posted in: #grief#leadership#ministry#relationships
The Youngest One in the Room
In Job 32, we are introduced to a person named Elihu. To be honest, he just seems to appear out of nowhere. There is no mention of him for 31 chapters, yet when he begins to speak, it is clear that he had been present in the room to hear the lengthy dialogue between Job, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite.
. . .Posted in: #fear#leadership#ministry#workplace
Step Out
Each morning, the walk from my car to the hospital requires me to pass through a busy parking garage. Occupying an entire city block, the first level hosts the convergence of first-time families and garage-seasoned staff. Unsure about the complicated maze of multiple entrances, tall speed bumps, and hairpin turns, guests often creep through . . .
A Divine Heads-Up
It may not be just for you.
When was the last time someone gave you a heads-up? It may have been an unsolicited comment from a disgruntled restaurant patron, or the double flash of high beams from an oncoming driver, or even a wide-eyed emoji at the end of a co-worker's foreboding text. This intentional advisement was offered as a courtesy to help you successfully . . .
Worn Soles and Worn Souls
After two and a half years of walking the halls of the hospital, I decided to replace my work shoes. While the brand-new pair was a bit expensive, I knew that it was well worth the investment. Curious to see just how worn my old soles were, I laid both pair, side by side, on the bed. The difference was striking. "No wonder my feet were . . .
Skipped
Recently, when I discovered that the majority of my choir members would be out of town on a particular Sunday, I decided to sing a solo for the special music selection. Having sensed some direction based on the theme our pastor had chosen, I picked a song that authentically expressed what God has been freshly doing in my heart.
. . .Raising Halal
This summer, I had the privilege of leading worship with an amazing team of musicians at a national conference. One of the songs we sang was called, "Raise a Hallelujah."
This anthem became a battle cry for the attendees. It voiced their intention that in the presence of their spiritual enemies, they would, indeed, proclaim praise to the . . .
Posted in: #characterdevelopment#ministry#worship