So often, especially in the US, our identity seems to get wrapped up in our possessions (homes, cars, finances, etc..) and our value is usually related to what we do (teacher, engineer, manager, etc..). But God has called us to find our worth and our purpose in our relationship with Him. He has set us apart as believers … Continue reading Kingdom of Priests
Rejoice!
Rejoicing in the Lord comes naturally when life is good. Saying, singing, and, more importantly believing, that God is good is much easier when life is going smoothly. But, when difficulty, discouragement, dishonor, and even death, comes our way, giving thanks to God, trusting in His goodness, and rejoicing in Him becomes a decision. Regardless of … Continue reading Rejoice!
White as snow
As we awoke this morning in Texas to several inches of powdery wonder, it brought a sense of awe and beauty. There's something mesmerizing about fresh, fallen snow. Something magical as it reflects the sunlight. Clean. Undisturbed. New. The glory of the snow reminded me this morning of the promise of the Lord: “Come, let us … Continue reading White as snow
Land of the Living
We think we are in the land of the living on our way to the land of the dying. Nothing could be further from the biblical truth. You and I are in the land of the dying on our way to the land of the living. Professor Howard G. Hendricks, “Never Stop Growing” Founder’s Week … Continue reading Land of the Living
Rubik’s Cube
I've never been able to figure out a Rubik's Cube. I know - you figured it out in elementary school. And yes, 30 years later there are You-Tube videos showing you exactly how to solve it. But it's always stumped me. It's not that I haven't tried. I've seen others do it. Hearing them say … Continue reading Rubik’s Cube
Prayer and Honor on Presidents’ Day
Today we recognize Washington’s Birthday, also known as Presidents’ Day, as a day to honor the life work and sacrificial service of George Washington, the first President of the United States. We also recognize the work and service of President Abraham Lincoln as his birthday was also in mid-February. In practical use, Presidents' Day has become a … Continue reading Prayer and Honor on Presidents’ Day
How to have a Happy New Year
Most people will look for happiness in 2015 in their circumstances (jobs, possessions, health, entertainment, sports) or in their relationships (boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, children, or friends) only to discover that things and people change. I read a tragic, brief story in the New York Times this week about Ismaaiyl Brinsley, the man who killed two NY … Continue reading How to have a Happy New Year
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Have you ever looked under the Christmas tree to inspect still-wrapped gifts for size and shape and mass and volume? As a child, I used to think, “the bigger -- the better.” But over the years, I’ve discovered the reality that “big things come in small packages.” In fact, great things come in small packages. … Continue reading O Little Town of Bethlehem
What is Advent?
What is this thing called Advent? In 4th and 5th century Gaul and Spain, Advent was a preparation not for Christmas but for Epiphany. That's the early-January celebration of such diverse events in Jesus' life as his Baptism, the miracle at Cana, and the visit of the Magi. In those days, believers spent Advent's 40 … Continue reading What is Advent?
Doubt and Faith
There are days that I have doubts... There are days I question the goodness of God.... There are days I look around the world and wonder… As a believer in God, a follower of Christ, and especially, as a pastor, I’m sure some think I’m not supposed to have any doubts. But the reality is that, … Continue reading Doubt and Faith
following Jesus 