Building Character
Dangerous Alliances
We have all heard the saying “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” While it carries a lot of truth, those relationships rarely outlast the momentary need. In biblical times those alliances were often strengthened through arranged or negotiated marriages. Such was the case between Jehoshaphat, King of Judah,…
Read MoreThe Here and Now
When Tom and I were first married, we knew a couple who were on fire for God and talked about Him all the time, constantly punctuating their conversation with “praise the Lord!” We would leave their presence choking for a breath of “normalcy” where life could continue without all the…
Read MoreNot Enough
With about a year to go before the primaries in our next national election, potential candidates from both main political parties are throwing their hats into the ring. Concern over the state of our nation has all eyes on this process, believing the right leadership will make all the difference…
Read MoreNot Pedigree, But Heart
The book of Judges contains a disturbing account of a young Levite who became the priest of one man’s household hosting a shrine that was adorned with an ephod, household idols, a carved silver image and a silver idol. This family was Jewish, and the Levite was a grandson of…
Read MoreForgiveness Conundrum
Jesus taught many hard Kingdom truths that are difficult to practice like loving your enemies and giving your possessions to someone who would otherwise steal them. Many of us conveniently ignore these teachings, or at best make grudging obligatory attempts. On the other hand, a majority of Christ-followers would probably…
Read MoreThe Kingdom of God Is Here
When we think of the Kingdom of God, do we see ourselves living in it here and now, or is it something far away to be attained? For the most part, I believe we see the Kingdom of God as very different from our current state of existence, because we…
Read MoreUrgent Wake-up Call
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells three parables identifying the type of people who will find themselves cast into outer darkness. The first is the servant who in his master’s absence is left in charge of the household and personnel, but abused his power/position. The second is about 10…
Read MoreYeast Patrol
God made a big deal of commanding the Israelites to commemorate their exodus from Egyptian slavery by removing all yeast from their households every year for a seven-day festival to the Lord. The haste in which the Israelites responded to God’s command to leave Egypt allowed no time for the…
Read More