I was born white.  Though I did not realize it at the time.  Apparently, it was a big deal within the world around me. 

This past week, I discovered something about myself that’s really hard for me to admit out loud.

I’m struggling with “maskism.” I’m a “maskist.”

I’ve noticed it building inside of me for several weeks now, but this past week, when I was at the grocery store, I realized that it was consuming me on the inside, affecting my attitude, and causing me to think bad thoughts about people.

Brothers fight. So do sisters. It’s the inevitability of the human family dynamic. During conflicts, the integrity of who we are in Christ will be both revealed and challenged by two things: (1) what, specifically, we stand for—and how consistent it is with the gospel of self-sacrificial grace embodied by Jesus, and (2) how, specifically, we stand against those with whom we disagree. Both tell the story. Both reveal the basis of who we are in Christ. Both reflect on our family’s reputation. Here are some pointers on how to fight fair.

Many conflicts can be resolved simply by asking questions. Are we asking the right ones?

Most of my personal and professional growth has come through intentional interactions with mentors. Every believer, in my opinion, should not only submit to the life-influence of a faith-filled mentor, but also should be mentoring someone younger in the faith as well. It is the principle of multiplication at its best. Here’s how to start.

It’s time for the United Methodist Church to declare a mulligan, a do-over.