By Pastor Jamie McClanahan11/12/2025 As I reflect on the outcome of the Virginia elections and their impact on Virginians—particularly Christians—I feel a sobering sadness. The cultural landscape seems to shift more quickly than many of us can process. It brings to mind the haunting introduction from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the … Continue reading A Response to the Virginia Elections: A Pastoral Reflection on Troubling Days and the Hope of the Gospel
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Turning Point (Part 1)
I’ve been thinking a lot about these two words and what they mean beyond their recent cultural definitions. As a result of current events, many find themselves at a crossroads in their faith. Over the next few days, I will blog about the questions that arise from these happenings. I’m not interested in leaning into the … Continue reading Turning Point (Part 1)
Component 2: Paul Shares His Life and Ministry Alongside of Timothy
In his well-known book, The Master Plan of Evangelism, Dr. Robert E. Coleman writes, “Building men and women is not that easy. It requires constant personal attention, much like a father gives to his children…children are not raised by proxy. The example of Jesus would teach us that it can be done only by persons staying close to … Continue reading Component 2: Paul Shares His Life and Ministry Alongside of Timothy
Biblical Meaning and Significance of Mentoring
Biblically, the word “mentor” is not a word employed by Scripture writers. However, its sense and meaning can be observed throughout Scriptures in several words and relationships. Walter Brueggemann acknowledges this when he writes, “Mentoring as an idea is quite a modern notion. The practice of mentoring, however, is quite old.”[1] In the Old Testament, Hebrew … Continue reading Biblical Meaning and Significance of Mentoring
The Before, During, and After of Listening Well to a Sermon
If you listen to sermons for 40 years, you will have heard about 1600 Bible messages. I assume you will attend an average of 40 Sunday mornings a year and not 52, as few have perfect attendance. However, even if you attend 52 worship services yearly, you will have sat through 2,080 sermons in 40 … Continue reading The Before, During, and After of Listening Well to a Sermon
The Archipelago Kingdom of God
Malaysia is one of the largest archipelago nations in the world. There are 879 islands in the country. The largest of these, Pulua Banggi, is 440 square Kilometers. The smallest is “Little Bakkungaan," which is .085 square kilometers. Penang Island is the most densely populated island, with 794,313 people living on 114 square miles. The … Continue reading The Archipelago Kingdom of God
Valley Shepherds 