Three Question for Deep Spiritual Formation
February 16, 2022
As a pastor, I am professionally trained to study the bible, understand theology (some), preach, and offer pastoral care. However, there is one area where most pastors… maybe even most Jesus-followers are under trained in. This area is in trying to figure out what God is doing in our own life.
The other day I was listening to a podcast where my mentor, Brian Russell, was interviewing another pastor/author, Marc Alan Schelske. Marc was talking about his own spiritual formation and struggles as a pastor.
Marc also shared a tool he uses to help him process what God is doing in his life. He gave three questions he asked that are inspired by an ancient church father, St. Ignatius.
I found them so helpful I tweeted, blogged about, and made it the cover of the church newsletter. Marc offered the practice of time daily journaling through these questions.
#1 What happened in my life yesterday?
#2 Why did I respond or choose the way that I did?
#3 Who is God inviting me to be?
These questions have added value to my processing time with the Lord.
What practices do you find helpful in addition to your prayer and scripture reading?
#1 Secret to Save Time While Traveling This Summer
June 5, 2021
Want to save time and money while traveling this summer? Here is the secret that my family uses: we pack our own lunches. Here are three reasons this has become even more helpful this summer.
#1 You Save Time
Right now businesses all over the country are facing labor shortages. I even saw one friend who wasn’t able to get any food on a road trip because all the fast food restaurants had closed early in the day due to labor shortages. This also has meant that when restaurants are open there are long lines.
Are you headed out on a road trip or to a park this summer? Then bring your own food for you and your family. During a recent visit to a water park and a theme park we saw people waiting over an hour for burgers and fries. Even if you have to go out of the park to a cooler in your vehicle it will save you time in many circumstances.
#2 You Save Money
This is simple. If you make something at home it will most likely be significantly cheaper than buying at in a park or at a restaurant. Who doesn’t like to save a little money?
#3 You Will Feel Better
Does anyone really feel better after eating fast food? Seriously, how do you feel after eating a huge cheese burger vs. eating a chicken wrap and carrots?
Make the Most of Your Time
We all work so hard. Make the most of your travel and time with family. Spend a few minutes the day before you leave and pack a delicious lunch so save time, money, and feel better.
Donnan Family Update
April 25, 2021
Today we announced to Twin City United Methodist Church that after five years of wonderful service we are moving. Starting in June I will become the pastor at Glennville United Methodist Church.
I am grateful to God for the amazing and blessed time my family has had in Twin City. We are looking forward to meeting the great people of Glennville. I am going to eat so much Rusty Pig Barbecue!
Please in prayer for my family as we say our goodbyes in Twin City and hellos in Glennville.
