A recent study by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington found that Americans have made some progress in being better stewards of their health, but there is still much improvement needed. How can your faith community work for better health and stewardship of self? (Photo: Burger Austin, Creative […]
8 Reasons Leaders Need Solitude & 5 Doable Ways to Find It
In this week’s gospel lesson, Jesus hears everything his disciples have done and promptly invites them to “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile” (Mark 6:30-31a). This is good advice that’s tough to take; in fact, it’s critical to our leadership, health, and spiritual and emotional well-being. Author and pastor Carey Nieuwhof has a few ideas to help. (Photo: Leland Francisco, Creative Commons)
Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating
We’ve all done it — we weigh ourselves in late December and discover we’ve gained more weight than we wanted. Through parties and special holiday meals, overeating is a temptation. On this page from WebMD you’ll find links to a number of articles on how to eat more healthfully this Christmas. (Photo by Kris Krug, […]
The Water Cure
Narrative Lectionary Reflection for November 2, 2014 (Year One)
What will it take, I wonder, for us to be pursuaded—as Naaman—to wash in the waters of baptism daily, to die to sin regularly, and to rise to newness of life clean and whole? Can we listen to the voices of the saints who have gone before us and who have lived lives of faith in specific times and contexts? Can we hear and live into the old, old story in a new time? (Photo: J>ro, Creative Commons)
Too Much, Too Fast, Too Unhealthy
Yep, new Barna Group research shows that Americans are concerned about their weight and unhealthy eating habits. Check out this article and ponder Paul’s words in Romans 7:15-17. How can we be better stewards of health and self? (Photo: Doc Searls, Creative Commons)
Healthy Change in a Local Church
Wise leaders know that change in a congregation can be incredibly hard, requiring amazing amounts of time and energy. But they also know that constant change is necessary and worth the expense. Here are some principles for how to lead your congregation through healthy change. From pastor.com. (Photo by Phil Whitehouse, used by Creative Commons […]
Take the “Fed Up” Challenge
Have you seen the new documentary film Fed Up? Check out the trailer here. You can also join the “Fed Up” Sugar Free for 10 Days Challenge and access plenty of facts and useful information.
Give the Gift of Health
Here’s a 16-page PDF booklet entitled “Walking as a Way of Life: Movement for Health and Happiness” by Jay Walljasper. Walking is now being touted as a “wonder drug” to promote health and well-being, as well as to treat and prevent a number of health issues. Best of all it costs little to nothing (excellent […]
Visualizing the Need for Sabbath
Not only is Sabbath a commandment, it’s good for our health, relationships, economy, and environment. Unfortunately, the notion of Sabbath is often a countercultural one. Here’s a series of infographics that may help you communicate tangible benefits of Sabbath-keeping. (Photo: hiyori13, Creative Commons)
Exercise Benefits the Brain, Too!
Want to be happier? Exercise. You don’t have to be a world-class athlete or spend hours in the gym. Twenty minutes is enough to trigger the responses in the brain that lead to a better outlook on life. Now that’s good stewardship! (Photo: Stefan Insam, Creative Commons)