All of us who knew Billy (William J.) Abraham (1947-2021) were stunned last week when we received the grievous news of his death. Since then, I have read several moving remembrances. Some of Billy’s seminary and graduate students have written
Another View of the Pence/Billy Graham Rule
Having read a few opinions about the hoopla over Vice-President Mike Pence’s application of the so-called Billy Graham rule, I’d like to complicate this picture with a story from my own experience. But first: I firmly believe in and actively
What Makes Someone An Intellectual?
I had a stimulating phone conversation with a friend today. She recounted that an acquaintance of hers, hearing a talk I gave some time back, described it as “not very intellectual.” As is often the case, the conversation has sent
Little League Lesson with Big-League Impact
There is plenty of worry these days (mostly among us older adults) about entitled young people and not-very-resilient college students. Because of the work I do, I feel a good deal of sympathy for emerging adults and wince at these
“Clem,” Lesslie and J.R.W.: Examples to the Flock
In a congregation with a group of clergy recently, I said something I say often: “We (pastors) lead with our lives.” Our culture places much emphasis on competence and skill. Please, God, let us clergy show competence! But, let us