A woman preaching on a large church stage with the word “AFRAID?” over the image, illustrating the Southern Baptist debate over women preaching and the pastoral office.

Why Are Southern Baptists So Afraid of Women Preaching?

Southern Baptists are debating women preaching, female pastors, and the biblical qualifications for pastor, elder, and overseer. This open letter supports Al Mohler’s Truth and Unity Amendment while affirming the crucial role of women in the church. Pastor Rich Bitterman argues that the issue is not fear of gifted women, but faithful submission to Scripture, biblical church order, and the authority of Christ over His church.

Law enforcement vehicles block Y Highway at night with emergency lights flashing across the road.

My Neighbor Shot Four Officers Last Night and Stone County Woke Up Different

A quiet stretch of Y Highway in Stone County turned into a roadblock under flashing lights after my neighbor, Richard Bird, shot four officers, killing two and wounding two. I was stuck near Reeds Spring as helicopters and drones swept the woods. Here’s what that night revealed about sin, brokenness, and the urgent hope of the gospel.

Nine-year-old boy proudly holding a freshly caught trout at Taneycomo dock, autumn trees in background

This, Too, Is Worship

A quiet morning on Y Highway. A boy. A trout. And a grandfather passing down more than just how to fish—he’s handing over faith, memory, and the sacred rhythm of grace beneath autumn leaves.

Jen Psaki speaking during a live MSNBC segment, seated in a news studio with a serious expression, reacting to the Minneapolis church shooting.

“Prayer Is Not Freaking Enough.”

Jen Psaki said prayer isn’t enough. But I pastor a small church where prayers are answered. I’ve seen cancer vanish, prodigals come home, and broken people walk back into the light. Prayer may be mocked in headlines, but in our pews, miracles still happen.

A fog-covered Ozark trail winding through a forest of tall trees, where the mist obscures the distance and softens the morning light.

Where God Walks Slow

In the Ozarks, beauty comes quietly—through morning mist, filtered sunlight, and the hush of water over rock. This reflection on walking woodland trails becomes a journey of the soul, revealing the sacred in the ordinary and the God who meets us in stillness. When the world gets loud, come walk where God walks slow.

A peaceful river bends through a golden forest under an autumn sunset, with reflections glowing on the still water.

When the Revival Ran Aground

In the quiet hills of the Ozarks, revival didn’t come with fireworks—but with a faithful prayer on a drifting boat. This unforgettable story from Cedar Ridge Baptist Church explores the power of cottage prayer meetings, the beauty of seeking God together, and how an elderly man’s prayer life sparked something eternal—right as the boat ran aground.

The Tree That Waited for the Preacher

Pastor Rich Bitterman reflects on the serviceberry tree in his yard, symbolizing hope and resurrection. As one of the first to bloom in spring, it signifies the preacher’s return to honor those lost during winter. The tree serves as a reminder that even in grief, life and healing persist, echoing God’s whispers of comfort and renewal.

The Church at the End of the Road

Cedar Ridge Baptist Church, a small Southern Baptist congregation in Stone County, Missouri, embodies deep faith and community. The pastor reflects on meaningful moments of connection, simplicity in worship, and strong support among members. This church prioritizes personal relationships over numbers, celebrating life’s joys and sorrows together in a nurturing environment.