by Mark Vroegop | Articles
During the last week of Jesus’ life, he issued a “new command.” 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if...
by Mark Vroegop | Articles, Lament, Pastoral Ministry
Years ago, I remember hearing a seasoned pastor say, “Ministry would be a cake-walk if it wasn’t for people.” His tongue-in-cheek statement revealed what people know: pastoral ministry is hard. It isn’t long until the passionate calling collides, head-on, with...
by Mark Vroegop | Articles, Pastoral Ministry
Serving on a mission field is uniquely challenging—both spiritually and emotionally. Those who follow the call of God overseas bid farewell to family and friends. Missionaries leave the familiar behind. They face the shock of assimilating in a new culture, along with...
by Mark Vroegop | Articles, Lament
David McKissic (Davey Asaph) is not only a staff member and a musical artist, but he’s also a friend. Before our recent IGNITE concert where David was leading in a new song, I gave him a hug. I told him, “I can hardly believe you’ve only been here a...
by Mark Vroegop | Articles, Lament
“God, I know you’re not mean, but it feels like it today.” My wife, Sarah, and I were sitting—devastated—in the car outside our doctor’s office. My wife’s blunt prayer was all she could muster. Our prior appointment was to confirm a long-awaited pregnancy after the...
by Mark Vroegop | Articles, Lament
The Bible commands believers to rejoice in all circumstances. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thess. 5:16-18, ESV) “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of...
