One of the most amazing things about Jesus is that he not only came and died for us but before that, he took the time to understand us. Before he even started his ministry, he spent thirty years just living, understanding the human experience. He was tempted in every way we are, so he understands […]
Consider the Lilies
When you look in the mirror, what do you see? Not a beard, or a few grey hairs peeking through your scalp. I mean, what do you really see? Do you see a piece of trash, someone broken and imperfect? Do you see a work of art, created in the image of God? More likely, […]
A Shepherd’s Tale
There I was, propped up against a rock in the middle of a field, trying to stay awake at least enough to keep track of the sheep. It had been a long day. We saw a lion to the east and had to steer the flock closer to Bethlehem so it didn’t cause any trouble. […]
Fear and Trembling
I was recently reading a biography of George Muller, and I came across something I would like to share. After he preached his first sermon at a little country church while he was in seminary, he was struck by how much greater an impact a simple sermon had over that of a complex theological masterpiece. […]
When Necessary, Use Words
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.” – Saint Francis of Assisi These famous words of Saint Francis of Assisi are often quoted by those who are fed up with the church not practicing what it preaches. They are meant to illustrate the point that if we don’t actually live out the […]
Reflections
“‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that […]
Only
“Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and […]
George Muller, Man of Great Faith
George Müller is remembered today for his great faith and mountain-moving prayers. He didn’t begin life as the saint he is known as today, though. Quite the opposite, in fact. Up until partway through his university years, he was a thief, a gambler, and a liar. In fact, the only reason he had agreed to […]
That’s My Voice
“Crucify!” I heard myself shouting along with the crowd. We stood before the governor’s palace as he presented this man, Jesus, to the sea of accusers. I didn’t know what exactly he had done, but I knew that he had caused a great uproar with the people. As Pilate washed his hands a shout rose […]
The Church and the World
In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses a rather sensitive and oft-avoided topic in the church. In this chapter, he discusses the issues of immorality in the church, excommunication, and the difference between those in the church and those outside of it. Let’s read the beginning of the chapter and dive into its meaning: “It is […]