“I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say.”

Flannery O’Connor

Writing is a germination process by which the seed of an idea grows into fully developed thought. It is not always a pleasant process. As another author put it, “I hate writing, I love having written.” Rarely does the seed’s dream of what its fully grown self will look like match the mature plant. Unanticipated twists and frustrating dead ends only become apparent during the actual work of thinking, writing, editing, repeat.

When I began my first pastorate at Whitton Avenue Bible Church, the church published a weekly newsletter with space for an article. I had a desire to write. So every Friday I spent about half a day writing about whatever was on my mind. To be honest, I often wondered whether I was wasting my time. But as I look back at many of those articles, I see plants that actually bore fruit and consider most of the time well spent.

What this site is

I want to share some of that fruit with you. This website is a place for me to curate past articles I’ve written that I believe can still be helpful to others. When possible I will link their original posting site and briefly share any necessary context.

I also have some seeds that are currently growing. My hope is to publish new articles at least monthly, whether from my current writing for Groveton Baptist Church, other outlets, or articles exclusive to The Rod and Staff.

Why the name?

In Psalm 23:4, David prays, “your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” The rod was a club used to fend off predators while the staff was used to gently guide the sheep. As one of Christ’s under-shepherds, my calling to “preach the word” includes using that gospel truth to “reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2). The articles on this site will range from calling out my own evangelical tribe for hypocrisy to offering gentle guidance for following Jesus faithfully. I do all of this very aware of my own imperfections and need for nourishment and direction from the Chief Shepherd.

What you can do

If you read anything you find helpful, please share it with others. Use the comments section to give your angle or experience on something I have written–I want to learn from you! However, I have no intention to referee debates or allow mean-spirited attacks, so comments of that sort will not be posted.

My prayer is that the content on this site will encourage, challenge, and equip you, to the end that you know the comforting presence of the LORD even through the valley.