Lord. It’s who Jesus is. The angel announced to the shepherds that “a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Philippians 2:11 describes how every tongue will acknowledge that “Jesus Christ is Lord.” 1 Corinthians 12:3 explains how “no one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the … Continue reading Is someone on earth Lord, or Jesus?
Author: Matthew Ruttan
Discouragement is a comma, not a period
There’s a movie that some people watch every year: It’s A Wonderful Life. There’s a scene right at the start of the movie where we overhear what is supposed to be a conversation between God and a guardian angel named Clarence. “A man down on earth needs our help,” God says, referring to George Bailey. … Continue reading Discouragement is a comma, not a period
For ALL people (Epiphany)
Today is Epiphany. Um, what? “Epiphany” means “manifestation.” Historically, it’s a day when Christians mark the manifestation (or appearing, or showing-forth) of Jesus to the gentiles—in other words, to ALL people (not just Jews). It’s associated with the visit of the wise men who came from a faraway country: “When they saw the star, they were … Continue reading For ALL people (Epiphany)
Stand firm in things eternal
At the start of a new year some people make resolutions. They resolve to improve something in their lives. Maybe it’s getting in shape, getting out of debt, or quitting smoking. Personally, I’m not too keen on making resolutions. But what I am keen on is developing practices and routines that help us stand firm … Continue reading Stand firm in things eternal
2021: In the arms of an certain God
Welcome to 2021! After a week off, the “Up!” daily devotional is back. And welcome to those who have newly subscribed over the past week. In 2008 there was a College softball game. Sara Tucholsky came to the plate. She only had three hits all season. But she smashed the ball out the park. It … Continue reading 2021: In the arms of an certain God
The darkness has not overcome it
Merry Christmas! Well, it’s an understatement to say that 2020 has been a year like no other. Who would have guessed that a global pandemic would sweep over and through our daily lives as it has? Not me. It has been challenging, frustrating, tiring and eye-opening. Can I get an Amen? And then comes Christmas. … Continue reading The darkness has not overcome it
The origins of Santa
It’s Christmas Eve! Millions of children from all around the world are anticipating a visit from Santa Claus—who is probably going to be wearing a mask and washing his hands a few billion times, but that’s a discussion for another day. A quick look at his origins is kind of fun. But more importantly, it … Continue reading The origins of Santa
Pray attention
“pray continually…” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) “Pray attention” is a phrase coined by Ross Lockhart in his book Beyond Snakes and Shamrocks.* Ross is the intelligent, energetic, and mission-focused Dean of St. Andrew’s Hall at the Vancouver School of Theology. Plus, he can rock a bowtie like nobody else I know! Here’s how he explains it: … Continue reading Pray attention
Full of yourself, or the Spirit?
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them…” (Luke 2:8-9) Have you ever wondered, “Why shepherds?” Why did the angel come to them of all people while they were actively watching against thieves and prey? There are probably … Continue reading Full of yourself, or the Spirit?
When we hear it so much we stop hearing it
It’s one of the most famous stories ever told: The birth of Jesus. We’re about to celebrate it in a few days. Shepherds, angels, and hostile Inn-keepers have appeared in thousands of Christmas pageants for hundreds of years. But when we hear something so much, we stop hearing it. Instead of paying more attention, we … Continue reading When we hear it so much we stop hearing it
