be in the Word of God every day
On my way home last night I decided to listen to a Christian radio channel. They usually air sermons which I like to listen to while driving. Some of my most profound thinking time happens in the driver's seat. However, last night I was surprised to encounter a message focusing on Nazis, Syrians, the wrath of God, and hellfire.... Continue Reading →
The convenience of a streaming church service is a double-edged sword. Indispensable to those who cannot leave their bed, but a tool of temptation for the devil. I heard that whisper this morning: Why get up so early? It's cold and you deserve a break, and who will notice you anyway? Whether you go or stay won't... Continue Reading →
Tonight I met up with a dear friend who lives abroad, but with whom things never seem to change no matter how long between visits. We shared the stories of the past 8 years of our lives over two enormous vanilla lattes. (I'm convinced that I could die happily in a cozy corner of a... Continue Reading →
I had a great idea for an Advent blog series this year. In my mind, I had booklets and devotions and things I was going to read, make, and give. Come that first morning of Advent, I would jump out of bed bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready to meditate, savor, and discover what divine joy... Continue Reading →
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. James 1:26-27 I truly believe that God works out everything for the good of those who love him. I love God. Therefore, I trust that he will not... Continue Reading →
Commonplace stock phrases like "follow your heart" are so prevalent in our culture that e don’t think twice when we see them plastered on greeting cards, posters, and children’s clothing. They sure sound positive, upright and true, but Jesus says something different. The sins that defile us, actually start with your heart. “Out of a person’s... Continue Reading →
Never forget that Joseph worked.That Jesus worked.That Mary worked. Joseph was a "tekton," in the Greek. So was Jesus. This is often translated as carpenter, but woodworker, craftsman, handyman, or even day laborer, are all good translations. Jesus worked as a "tekton" for upwards of 18 years. Jesus, Mary and Joseph honored the Sabbath and... Continue Reading →
It both inspires and saddens me to see that this is such big news. And the reason, of course is that the world does not normally associate Christianity with true agape love. I pray that we as Christians continue to out the command to love one another as ourselves, and to love God with all... Continue Reading →
I failed again, for the umpteenth time. I set out to meditate on good, but my mind barely goes as far as judgement or hate --whichever makes me feel the best about myself at the time. I no sooner finish dedicating my day to Love, than I turn around and say something passive-aggressive to my... Continue Reading →
Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on his head, and they put a purple robe on him. “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped him across the face. John 19:1-3 We mock Jesus too, when we profess to be... Continue Reading →
tea & testimony 