We live in a highly individualistic society. Let me tell you what I mean: 1) Automobiles and changing, busy patterns of life can result in less time in our own neighbourhoods and fewer meaningful relationships and connections with the people around us. 2) Harvard professor Robert Putnam says that much of our free time has … Continue reading I just can’t do it alone
community
The right things or the wrong things?
We all want things. But what kinds of things do you spend your time and energy wanting? Exodus 20:17 says, “You shall not covet…” It’s a command against obsessing about things you don’t have. After all, if you keep mentally drooling after other people’s things, it undermines your belief that God can and will provide … Continue reading The right things or the wrong things?
For Humboldt
Last Friday, a Junior hockey team in Saskatchewan, Canada called the Humboldt Broncos got into a massive bus accident. 15 people died, 13 of them were players. When I heard about it, I was shocked, and then sad—for the horror of it all, for the loss of life, and for the families and friends whose … Continue reading For Humboldt
More than just one moment
One of the ideas people have is that meaningful faith is formed and shaped in one big dramatic moment. Kind of like a spiritual “Big Bang” event. And in some cases, it is. But what I’ve noticed is that most people’s faith is formed and shaped over time—and as a result of MANY factors. Here’s … Continue reading More than just one moment
Hallowhat?
When I was little I didn’t really know anything about Halloween. It was just a time to put on weird costumes, forego our don’t-talk-to-strangers rule, and pile in more chocolate than Augustus Gloop from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. But as time went on I found out more. I learned that a fair amount of … Continue reading Hallowhat?
Build the future
My country is great. But I can also get down about it. So this help from JFK and Jeremiah 29 turned my attitude around.
Manchester
Is the Manchester bombing terrible? Of course. Should we pray? Absolutely. But we should also disagree with Cain and do this...
Boundedness
The word “religion” isn’t very popular. People (including myself!) prefer to use substitutes like “spirituality” or “faith” as a way of bypassing this un-trendy word that can call to mind firm-fisted sermons, strict morality or chanting monks. But let’s pause on it for a minute. It comes from an old word meaning “to bind.” So … Continue reading Boundedness
Mr or Miss Unexpectedly Generous
Psalm 86:15 “But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger…” (NIV) Today's Thought One of the inevitabilities of this time of year is get-togethers. It happens in families, with friends, at work parties, semi-formals, church and volunteering events. For some people, it’s something to look forward to. But for others, … Continue reading Mr or Miss Unexpectedly Generous
Like muscles to your flesh
Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…” (NIV) Today's Thought People. Humans. Unless you’re a hermit in the middle of the desert with no WiFi, you can’t … Continue reading Like muscles to your flesh
