When Jesus sat down on the Mountain and gathered his disciples and others around Him, He began explaining how the they could become the kind of people that God would bless. He carefully developed His theme – in what is recorded for us as Matthew 5 – until he reached a climax in verse 46 […]
Read More »The Man
The Apostle Paul was what is sometimes called “a man’s man.” He was highly educated, a lawyer, and a member of a national ruling body. He led a force authorized to judge and execute judgment against national enemies. After his stunning conversion to Christianity, he was stoned, beaten, imprisoned, and ultimately beheaded for his faith.
Read More »Preparation for the Gospel
This week I read some articles about Dr. Samuel Johnson. It is said that he is quoted perhaps more than any English writer other than Shakespeare. I’m sure you know him well, like I did. Not.
Read More »Stagnant Christianity?
A discussion with some friends this week about morality raised some interesting questions. What is morality? How does someone become a moral person? What is the basis for morality? What motivates someone to be moral? As contemplated here, “moral” has to do with the principles of right and wrong behavior and the goodness or badness […]
Read More »Well Done!
“How’s work?” “One day closer to retirement.” Or, “A hundred years from now, nobody will know the difference.”
Read More »A New Day!
Israel had a rich history of a unique relationship with God. There were the conversations between God and many of the nations leaders; events like Abraham’s conversation with the Lord at the entrance to his tent and Moses covering his face after face-to-face conversations with God. There were the recorded miracles dear to every Israelite, […]
Read More »It’s Not A Secret Formula
Coca Cola and Kentucky Fried Chicken closely guard their lucrative formulas, and your grandmother and mine talk about the “secret ingredient” that makes their gravy so delicious. So when we see people around us who seem to have a genuine relationship with God, we’re sure they have some super special secret that gives them confidence […]
Read More »Side Tracked
Every day I learn more and more about our President. I listen to his speeches, read press releases, and hear opinions about him – both pro and con. I now know where he was born, where he has lived during each period of his life, how he was educated, the issues he has supported and […]
Read More »Character or Security?
LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart. Psalm 15:1,2 A current report from the Barna Group begins with this statement: A new national survey of registered voters conducted by the Barna Group reveals that […]
Read More »Don’t Turn Back
After traveling through the night, by train, bus, and a long flight; tired from lack of sleep, irregular meals, multiple time changes, and carrying the ever-present backpack; and out of sorts from long lines, official questions, and scanned finger-prints; the question is sure to present itself…
Read More »On Mission
Mission: noun An important assignment carried out for political, religious, or commercial purposes, typically involving travel. A group of people taking part in such an assignment. Missionary: noun A person sent on a religious mission, esp. one sent to promote Christianity in a foreign country. (Google definitions)
Read More »In The Moment
You may recall the story, as recorded in Luke 10: Jesus dropped in at the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. The visit was apparently unannounced. Martha invited Jesus to stay in their home. As you might imagine, she got busy making everything suitable and comfortable for his stay. Her sister, Mary, sat listening to […]
Read More »But Is It True?
Another Easter has come and gone. Lent is over, the ashes long since washed away, and fasting is forgotten for another year. We can wear light colors now.
Read More »Glorious Defeat! (A Sequel)
This was the true light that enlightens every person by his coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him. Yet the world did not recognize him. He came to his own creation, yet his own people did not receive him. (John 1:9-11)
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