Just before the Passover feast, Jesus knew that his time had come to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now loved them to the very end. … Jesus knew that the Father had handed all things over to him, and that he had come … Continue reading
The final two months of the year in our culture seem to bear the general designation “The Holidays.” To be specific, this time of year is defined by Thanksgiving and Christmas. For the past 34 years I’ve been writing poetic prayers as a way of focusing my heart in celebration of these different expressions of … Continue reading
Rejoice greatly, daughter of Zion! Shout, daughter of Jerusalem! Look! Your king is coming to you: he is legitimate and has been saved, humble and riding on a donkey. Zechariah 9:9 Jesus proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because his followers thought that the kingdom of God was going … Continue reading
We do not lose heart even though our body is decaying, because you are renewing our inner being day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison. 2 Corinthians 3:18–4:18; Deuteronomy 3:24 O let me not be satisfied With what I know you have … Continue reading
While John’s gospel does not contain an infancy narrative, his first letter is most insistent about the reality and significance of the incarnation. So today we celebrate the incarnation from the context of 1 John. Eternal life, immeasurable love, Existed as the Father and the Son Together shared the joy and glory of The perfect … Continue reading
You are Yahweh, Most High over all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods. Hate evil, you who love Yahweh; for he preserves the souls of his kind ones by snatching them from the hand of the wicked. Light is shining for the righteous and gladness for the upright in heart. Be glad … Continue reading
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4 Back in 1970 Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young presented he world with mind-sticking tune: “Teach Your Children Well.” For Father’s Day 2016, here’s my rewrite of their lyrics. You know the tune; don’t … Continue reading
I’m taking a break from the “Integrity” series for a week to post an essay about understanding and appreciating the Sabbath. I recently heard someone declare that God created the Sabbath rest so human beings can maintain a sense of balance in our lives; too much “busyness” is not good for us. It’s true that … Continue reading
Rejoice greatly, daughter of Zion! Shout, daughter of Jerusalem! Look! Your king is coming to you: he is legitimate and has been saved, humble and riding on a donkey. Zechariah 9:9 Jesus proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because his followers thought that the kingdom of God was going … Continue reading
For a child has been born to us, a son has been given to us. He shoulders responsibility and is called: Extraordinary Strategist, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His dominion will be vast and he will bring immeasurable prosperity. He will rule on David’s throne and over David’s kingdom, establishing it and strengthening … Continue reading