Modern people tend to be very tactile. “Actions speak louder than words.” We like physical results. We like concrete, measurable objectives.I get that. Our actions need to back up our words. Physical results and measurable objectives are important.But when it comes to being like Jesus, we can mistakenly conclude that it’s only about what is … Continue reading What we want to do
Author: Matthew Ruttan
How do we know what is or isn’t true online?
Several years ago I was invited to give a talk to some high school students at a church in Toronto. During a question and answer time at the end one of them asked me this question: How do we know what is or isn’t true online?Wow, what a question! In short, it’s becoming increasingly difficult … Continue reading How do we know what is or isn’t true online?
Vigilance
In yesterday’s devotional we looked at the story behind the popular war-time slogan: “Keep calm and carry on.” We modified it to say: “Keep calm and follow Jesus.”It’s amazing how many times Jesus urges faithful vigilance even in the face of uncertainty and danger. In Mark 13:32-37 he was teaching about his return: “Be on … Continue reading Vigilance
Keep calm and…
During World War Two the British government commissioned posters to keep the public focused on key ideas. They were written with white letters on a red background. There was a crown at the top.One said: “Freedom is in peril. Defend it with all your might.” A second one said: “Your courage, your cheerfulness, your resolution, … Continue reading Keep calm and…
You may fail
“In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ…” (Ephesians 1:4-5)Imagine you’re a parent. Your child has been learning the piano. She’s got a school concert coming up. She chose the music carefully and has practiced a lot. You bought her a new dress. She is excited but nervous. So are you!The … Continue reading You may fail
He knew what was going to happen
One of the things that has really stuck with me recently is the foreknowledge of Jesus. He knew he would be tortured, abandoned and killed. And yet, he did it anyway.Why?Let’s pretend that I’ve had a direct message from God for you. Here it is: “Tomorrow is going to be the most painful day of … Continue reading He knew what was going to happen
One more move
Tony Campolo tells a story about the movie, The Seventh Seal.In short, a medieval knight plays a dramatic game of chess with death himself, the prince of darkness. Throughout the whole movie they go back and forth making moves.Right at the end, as things are reaching a climax, the prince of darkness makes one more … Continue reading One more move
Pandemonium
There are times when everything seems chaotic. Problems everywhere—not only in the world generally, but in your life specifically. Pain, confusion, hardship. It’s pandemonium. The word “pandemonium” literally means “demons everywhere.” That’s very fitting, isn’t it?That must have been what the disciples felt like during Jesus’ trial, torture and crucifixion. Demons everywhere!That’s why it can be … Continue reading Pandemonium
When the Devil reminds you of your past
Jesus actually rose from the grave. Actually. Physically. Incredibly!Because of that, everything was different. Everything is different.He paid for and conquered sin. He defeated death. He saved his people. His love triumphed! His reconciling work extended—and extends—to the entirely of the world, bringing unity to all things in heaven and on earth (Ephesians 1:9-10).He also … Continue reading When the Devil reminds you of your past
These records tell me all kinds of bad things about you
Today is Good Friday. It’s a solemn time to remember and give thanks for what Christ did for us on the cross.Billy had a younger sister who was confined to a wheelchair. He took her to school and brought her from class to class. He was happy to do so. He was caring for his … Continue reading These records tell me all kinds of bad things about you
