Years ago, I was at a home group where everyone discussed works versus faith. We’re saved by grace through faith, but the idea of this necessary component of works comes from James, who says, “I will show you my faith by my works.” It shows up in other places of scripture as well, indicating that…
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Blessed is everyone who eats bread in the Kingdom of God
The first time I heard the scripture in Matthew 7:21-23, I quickly applied it to others. In subsequent readings, it unsettled me. I’ve come to a place where it keeps me company with a content sort of fear and trembling. I don’t get it, but I accept it. It goes: “Not everyone who says to…
Here’s What You Need to Do
Recently, we watched a television series called Ted Lasso. It’s about an American football coach who goes to England to coach a British football team (soccer). There are three guys who periodically show up, watching the matches from a pub. They are either hugging each other, or screaming at the TV, depending on how the…
Uncovered
I once asked my pastor why a woman had to have her hair covered in church. He gave me so many words that it was clear he didn’t know. During a lull, his wife chimed in something about how a married woman’s hair should be covered, because her husband is over her, and he is…
The Ordination of Humankind
Twelve is a significant number in the Bible. There were 12 tribes of Israel, and Jesus chose 12 disciples. He even chose 12 knowing there would be one who was a betrayer. So I imagine all the times Christ looked him in the eye, giving him every chance to follow and believe instead of choosing…
Making Time for Intimacy
Repost: Originally posted October 3, 2022 I’m trying to practice the rhythm of consistency, but sometimes it’s not possible. Last week’s blog was quarantined as non-essential and stayed inside. Rhythm There are people in my life whom I love but no longer share a rhythm of relationship with. Some are friends who used to visit…
Who, what, where, when, why the hell?
Questioning Hell When I first heard the gospel, it was good news. Everybody was going to hell where there would be eternal, unbearable punishment…wait, here’s the good part: I didn’t have to go if I didn’t want to. I could have a free ticket out. Yes, please. Sign me up. I was eleven years old….
My Immortality
In literature, you often see a closing image that highlights or completes the opening image. It can be for good or for bad. It brings the theme full-circle. Sometimes it’s forced and cliche, especially in movies. But when it’s done well, you feel a sense of completion that you can’t always put your finger on….
Unquestioning Obedience
I think I always trusted that you could wrestle with God, but felt there was a warning, or at least a caveat. If you wrestle with him, you’ll come away with a limp. So, if you want the easiest life, just trust him implicitly. I remember a time when I felt uncomfortable and said to…
The Things That Are God’s
I’m not thinking of taxes, yet. I will be in a few weeks when I sit down to organize everything. I’m just thinking about how much I love the interaction between Christ and the political/spiritual leaders who tried to trap him in his words regarding taxes. In Mark 12:13-17, they asked if it was lawful…