Earl Lavender

Dir. of Missional Studies, Lipscomb U. Husband of Rebecca, father of Rachel, Beth, David, papa to Nora, William, Caroline, Calvin, Maisie & Wesley. So blessed!

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

I haven't tweeted in a long time. In times like these, I am not sure what to say. But I will risk speaking through one of my most gifted former students, Nate Creekmore. "Food for thought" - you'll get it after you contemplate this excellent piece: https://t.co/zDNYXqnpJs

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

In Dialogue: Nel Dialogo.. https://t.co/1hvIexRVUx via @wordpressdotcom
I have relaunched my blog - Missiovita. It is now a dialogue between me and the distinguished professor of biology from the University of Ferrara (Italy) Dario DiLuca. Check it out.

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

It strikes me that some politicians cannot say "Everything I needed to know I learned in kindergarten" because some lack basic coping and social skills that should be learned in kindergarten - like "do not brag" or "do not tear up other people's work." Any adults in the room?

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

As I continue interview each of my undergraduate students individually, their need for compelling examples of authentic followers of Jesus is ever more evident. When present, it is transformational and life-giving. When lacking, it creates a deep void.

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Giving one’s self away is not a soft response. It is intentionally taking our concerns before the throne of God and pleading for Spirit led discernment to do what is best for a life-giving response for the other. This is the way of the cross...

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

It seems to me that in this day of expressive individualism, even many followers of Jesus have forgotten the way of the cross. It is not about us or for us - we are invited to be living sacrifices for the sake of others. Kenosis doesn’t defend self - it offers self. Phil 2:5-11.

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

@PhillipCamp And why would anyone want to become an OT scholar?😘

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Haven't posted in a while. Fascinating summer of studies and travel. Powerful experiences of redemptive transformation. Painful losses of life-long friends. But all fits in the biblical grand narrative. Praying for new heavens and new earth - but enjoying the not-yet adventure!

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

If you are anywhere near Nashville or can get here from June 26-28, you don't want to miss Summer Celebration at Lipscomb. The theme is on the Holy Spirit. The study is based on Leonard Allen's outstanding new book Poured Out. #GameChanger

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

If God’s presence can be removed from a religious system and nothing changes, it is an expression of humanism, not Christianity. #CharlesTaylor

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

It was my honor to study with and baptize Renzo and his wife Lorena 40 years ago. We’ve both grown a lot since. It is such a joy to be used by the Spirit and see the Spirit’s continual transformative work!

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Enjoyed a wonderful day walking up to Montecatini Alto, ending in a public conference for the church in Pistoia and a great late night dinner with wonderful friends. #kingdomjoy

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

And all this time I thought we were in Italy...I’m confused...

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Walking through Vinci, Italy with Rebecca - thinking, “Leonardo is to Vinci what Jamie Dailey is to Gainesboro, TN. A shout out to our amazingly talented and loyal friend @DaileyVincent

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

This is the hometown of Leonardo (thus Vinci). For some reason I am feeling more creative...

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Loved our evening with the church meeting in Bologna. New life-transformative stories to tell!

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

As most know, I am into metaphors. This sign on a mountain trail made me think of many churches. They once served a purpose but have since forgotten that to which they should point. #kenosis #belikeJesus

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Any where you go in Italy is awesome, especially when you are with your best friend!

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Many eat gelato, most enjoy it. But precious few are those who experience it. Learn from a gelato guru...

[Earl Lavender @EarlLavender]

Let me introduce you to Professor Dario DiLuca of the university of Ferrara, a leading Italian biologist. I am reviving my blog https://t.co/xn8eYEaKuC in conversation with Dario about faith in the post-Christian West. Stay tuned! (It will be both in Italian and English).