I am constantly amazed at how God uses my test subject, the honey bee, to teach me about Him and His ways. Honey bees form colonies which can be described as “superorganisms” – a collection of individuals that, as a group, possesses qualities of a single organism. The honeybee colony functions as a living, breathing […]
Early in my time as a professor, I quickly learned that some colleagues dedicated a lot of time to service, and others dedicated, well, not so much. One of my colleagues simplified it this way: “If you want something done, find someone who is busy.” I became one of those busy people, serving on various […]
Since the pandemic, I have been more involved in teaching online classes, which has allowed me to teach students from around the nation. Recently, while teaching an online class, I had a great learning assistant who was a recent graduate. Although I never met my assistant in person, we began to form a collegial bond […]
As the current Faculty Advisor for Cru’s student ministry at the University of Florida, I have found my true calling—serving God by serving others. I am continually inspired by an amazing group of students who courageously share their faith, pray for and help others, and create a markably warm and welcoming community. But first, let […]
The influence of higher education on my faith cannot be understated. Christian faculty and campus ministries heavily influenced my faith while I was in college. God used my experience at a secular university to draw me to salvation and help me grow as a believer. I grew up in a Christian home in rural eastern […]
As an art professor at a university, my research is practice-based; I make art and investigate theories and theologies of it. Important in my dissertation had been Heidegger’s essay, “The Origin of the Work of Art,” where he describes art as a happening of truth, aletheia – an unconcealing. This concept continues to find significance for me. […]
My heart sank. As the minutes ticked away, it became obvious I would be the only one on the Cru Bible study Zoom call. Discouraged, I ended the call and began to pray. “What do you want me to do, Lord? Do you want me to find another colleague to be the sponsor of our […]
As I started my academic career as a young assistant professor, I wanted to make an impact. I was not, however, very open about my faith in academic settings due to fear of what people would think of me. All this changed when a colleague invited me to attend A Common Call virtual conference on October 17, […]
Years ago, I traveled with students to Europe for a semester-long study abroad program. Having led many short-term and longer-term study abroad programs over the years, I’ve seen my share of behavioral and emotional issues faced by students when they’re far from home. In this case, as the weeks progressed, one student’s attitude began to […]
Throughout my life, I have struggled with wanting to be in control. One of the verses I regularly held on to was Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a […]
