Failure in the Garden: Were these really the right ones for the job?
They couldn’t stay awake even one hour to pray with Jesus while he was in agony. Were these really the right guys to lead his mission in the future?
Taxes, pride, and surrender: challenges since the time of Jesus
These three words have stirred emotions since the time of Jesus, which is exactly why we still need to think about them today.
A doctor’s conclusion for every Christian: compassion is our calling
The example of Jesus shows us the power in touch. The admonition of Paul reminds us about the calling of compassion.
When we wait and watch, God’s need-quenching blessings spring forth
We can sing praises of expectancy, even if we don’t understand how the blessing will come.
When we consider our God, we dare not be stymied by the impossible
Some have achieved what we might have thought impossible. But their impossible is nothing like the impossible things God has done!
How this story shows the high price that comes with divisive behavior
There is a high price for divisive behavior. And, as this story shows, it might be a higher price than one would ever choose to pay.
Trying to trap Jesus and deciding his answers are always best
The Pharisees tried to trap Jesus, and sometimes we do too—for sadly similar reasons.
Unexpected turns, unwarranted fear, lessons in faith and prayer
The story of Moses and his people investigating the Promised Land is rich in implications for the faith of believers today.
Better than a model: four ways I’m trying to be a reflection
Dean asked writers to tell how they’re being a model of their faith. I prefer to think about it in slightly different terms.
Lessons from Moses: seeking our ‘70’ and yielding to God’s Spirit
If we have ever led anything or anyone, we can relate to the complaints Moses heard. Can we relate to the actions he took?
Listen up, list makers! Why not try pursuing a different approach?
Some like lists, and others avoid them. Those in both groups can benefit from the Scripture’s simple approach to pleasing God.
Better than a traffic light: how we know to go forward with God
God’s presence with the Israelites told them whether to stop or go. We have his presence, too, and it is even more wonderful than what they experienced.
What will it take for any of us to throw a mountain into the ocean?
Before we consider this story and give up on our own faith, we need to read more carefully and think more clearly.
Who wants to be the greatest? Maybe the answer is, ‘most of us’
Would we be embarrassed for others to know this is the question we’re most asking about ourselves?
We know the world is a mess, but God is greater, so much greater!
Even in our translations of the original Bible texts, the very words ring with meaning. Here are two that are striking: "But God…”
What happens when we trust God with our mouths firmly closed
There is wisdom in knowing when to speak up and when to keep silent. Maybe the secret is in learning to listen to God.
So many were blind, and despite our song, we sometimes are, too
Jesus healed two blind men, but they weren’t the only ones who couldn’t see clearly.
How this ‘new commandment’ addresses a problem as old as time
Jesus said his followers are to be known for their love. But the struggle against hatred is real.
We understand, because we’ve suffered through storms ourselves
Two storms, the same reaction. And we can identify with the fear the disciples felt.
Even when we’re misunderstood and mistreated, God is with us
Since Jesus has handled our biggest problem of all, shouldn’t we trust his Father with the rest of them?