In the past two years by the grace of God I have read 150 books: I read 100 books in 2017; and this year, I was privileged to read Jonathan Edwards’ major works and virtually all of C.S. Lewis. I have taking in much information, therefore, in these past two years…
We need boldness to speak the gospel of Jesus Christ—a certain willingness, confidence, courage, and strength. Without such, we will shrink back from fear. The apostles prayed for boldness: “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness” (Acts 4:29). Paul inquired his churches to pray “that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19). The mystery was that it was always about Christ; specifically, the mystery was that in Christ both all peoples have access to God—both Jews and Gentiles. Proclaiming such a ‘mystery’ took boldness. It required valor…
My wife is laying on a hospital bed beside me recovering from surgery as I write. Twenty four hours ago, we were planning on waking up and celebrating our daughter’s one year birthday. Now, it’s seven at night and she’s trying to cope with the pain. It began at 2:30 a.m. for her: vomiting, stomach pain, cramps. Her pain built until 10 a.m. when we drove to the emergency room with our two daughters. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. she was in more severe, escalating pain—likely the most I’ve seen her in. Finally at 2:30 p.m. she was admitted into surgery. The diagnosis was appendicitis—and she’s pregnant, so her health and our son’s life is at stake. The surgery went well—to the praise of God, from the fruit of many’s prayers. But now she’s in recovery. Not the day we planned; but it was his. In it all, he was faithful still…
During Christmas season, we wonder in the stories about Jesus’ birth—recounting the star, the magi, the manger, and the shepherds. We sing songs praising the mystery of the Incarnation. We wonder at the angelic visions and pronouncements. The consolation of Israel is celebrated; Mary’s faith is upheld; Jesus’ purpose in coming and presence as Immanuel is exalted. This is good, right, and fitting. But what about Joseph?…
When Jesus was transfigured (meaning, ‘transformed’) on the mountain, he spoke with Elijah and Moses. But what is fascinating is the topic of their conversation: “They spoke about his exodus” (Luke 9:31, literal translation). I was struck by this because one of these men speaking to Jesus is the original exodus deliverer himself…
When the apostles were sent out to preach by their Rabbi, what did they preach? What was the content of their message?…
Jesus’ favorite title for himself was not “Son of God.” Neither was it “Lord” or “Christ.” The title he most frequently used for himself was “Son of Man.” Why is this?…
At the end of the book of Job—the story of the innocent suffering—the main character Job is charged with trying to “correct” God (Job 40:2, NIV). After reading the book through pretty swiftly, I read that verse and agreed that that was essentially what Job was doing much of the time. He was complaining, confused, and correcting and contending…
The plagues and the Exodus. These are famous displays of the wonders of God. Much has and could be written about this pivotal season in history. But I want to focus in this short post on the flies and the chariot wheels. Yes, those pesky flies, and yes, just the chariots in the story. These might seem like they aren’t anywhere near the main point of the story, but God used these flies and chariot wheels for his glory. Yet what I want to meditate on here is how he did so…
I recently just finished reading the Torah, Joshua, and the book of Judges in about 20 days. It’s been a whirlwind reading the history of Israel so quickly, but it also has helped me see even more clearly than ever how quickly these people of God plummet into disobedience, deception, and distrust in the Lord…
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