I'm Back?

It's good to see you again!

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

I want to write again. That kind of surprises me.

I’ve been busy.

For several years.

It’s been a good busy, I think. I’m declaring it good based on what I was busy with. It’s been a good busy but also the kind of busy that keeps the mind too chaotic for writing-level coherency on certain subjects. The ministry terrain I was exploring felt more like a moon landing than traveling to a new country. Thus, I felt it best to be fully present, and wait until the right time to report back.

Now it’s time to describe what I’ve learned over the last several years. I’ve been living a good life–just not a writer’s life. I’ve been living the good life of raising kids, starting and growing a church, loving my family, and taking on some large God-goals that required full devotion of my head space, as well as whatever energy I had in reserve. 

Even a bit more than that. 

The world of ministry is shifting under our feet now. Unlike most, I believe we are beginning a period of revival while acknowledging times are beyond tough for local churches.

Hang in there. Don’t give up. A new day is dawning!

I was one of the early adopters of blogging, and I found it energizing, even therapeutic. I wrote over one million words that have been captured and will be edited into book form when the time is right.

Writing didn’t really feel like work to me. As an extrovert, I welcomed another place to talk about the issues of the day with new people. For years, we swapped thoughts on leadership, ministry, and practical theology. I met many new friends I consider close today through those exchanges.

Writing can be a good way to talk–if that makes sense. If we take the time to write it out (not in a text or email) and then hit, “send,” we are less likely to retract it, apologize for it, etc., if we make a mistake or go a bit too far. Communication of real substance requires honesty and vulnerability. It demands gracious listening. It demands the speaker and the listener be trustworthy. 

As in the past, you will get both well-formed ideas, and Tim unplugged. Not un-thoughtful, I hope. Unplugged. 

I’m thinking quite clearly these days. My ideas and thoughts have begun to bubble up again–and my sense is some might find them helpful. 

So, I’m not saying I’m back-back. I’m say saying, “I’m back?” For now, consider this a handshake to old and new friends, saying, “it’s good to see you again.”