The Spring 2025 semester has come to a close. A few days ago, the 2025 grads walked the stage at Calvin University’s Covenant Fine Arts Center (Congrats!), and summer has officially begun for the seminary. Some who have summer courses go back to the grind, but for many, a summer … ∞
Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. John 1:3 Dear readers, Today, I want to share a story with you about one seminary student, a young and ambitious preacher. The story began when she was a young adult. Her parents brought her … ∞
During this last semester of my Master of Divinity program, I’ve had the privilege of taking a course on Hebrews with Dr. Danny Daley. Going into this course, I loved Hebrews and the riches it had to offer. Now, as I’m finishing this course, my love for Hebrews is even … ∞
Ebooks? Kindle? Logos editions? Nah, physical books forever! Among pastors and seminarians there seems to be an endless debate, which is better: physical books or ebooks? Some have entirely ditched the physical books for entire digital libraries claiming minimalism and freedom. Others are physical purists. I believe the answer to … ∞
As seminary students, we take systematic and practical theology classes, but do they actuallyhave application and meaning in ministry? Is the doctrine of God something that changes theway we preach or do hospital visits, or is it another term to regurgitate on an exam and forgetimmediately after? While I’m not … ∞
In the early hours of 2025, a terrorist attack erupted on the streets of New Orleans, Louisiana. Social media posts celebrating the new year were overwhelmed by fear and worry. Would more attacks come? How would we–our country, leadership, and law enforcement–respond? As I read the headlines and grieved alongside … ∞
For most people, waiting has become an unendurable and distasteful thing in the mainstream of a fast-paced lifestyle in the 21st century. Yet, wisdom is hidden in the act and season of waiting. It is not a forceful and exerted waiting that drains all the patience, but a kind of … ∞
The opening chapters of Genesis describe Eden as a distinctive place God has created within the cosmos. Eden’s function, purpose, and design encompassed five distinct elements – first, Eden was created by God; second, Eden was filled with life; third, Eden was designed to be a temple where God dwelt … ∞
I think we are too hasty when it comes to love. In relationships, we give and receive a variety of things. Sometimes we bring joyand strength to each other, while, at other times, we share wounds and pain. One ofthe most difficult things to understand in such situations is this: … ∞
Over the past few years of writing, I’ve come to notice that I process best when I write. Maybeit’s because I have a tendency to ramble when I talk, or maybe it’s because I can edit my wordswhen I’m done. The recent combination of a sibling’s surgery, the end of … ∞
As our semester ends, some of you have experienced both highs and lows. Intensive week for many was an opportunity to connect with classmates, enjoy good food, and even partake in activities like axe throwing. The pub night fostered new friendships while strengthening old ones. However, as the season changes … ∞
I want my kids to be weird. But not too weird, you know? I am a father to five delightful children (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10yo) and my duties and responsibilities as a father are a joy in my life, even if they do not always feel that way. … ∞
As the holiday season approaches, there’s a temptation (at least in the North American church and context) to fake your emotions and act thankful, even when your life circumstances have you feeling the exact opposite. In 2022, after a long year of financial loss, medical crisis, changes in employment, and … ∞
Allow me, if you will, to make a case for the relationship between the church and a rugby team. This past month, Southern Hemisphere rugby nations have been touring in Europe, and I have spent large portions of my weekends preparing my fantasy team and watching rugby, not to mention bringing … ∞
“The gospel is not a doctrine of the tongue, but of life. It cannot be grasped by reason and memory only, but it is fully understood when it possesses the whole soul and penetrates to the inner recesses of the heart.” – John Calvin, Golden Booklet of the True Christian … ∞
