In Christian teaching over the past 70 or 80 years there has been an emphasis on heaven and life after death. In a sense, I get that. It’s huge! But I sometimes worry it has overshadowed (to an unhealthy degree) what we’re summoned to do in this life BEFORE we die. One of the thinkers … Continue reading Co-Renovators
inspiration
Your Magic Toeshoes
Alongside literary giants like Shakespeare and Tolstoy are the Berenstain Bears. (Maybe that’s a stretch, but just go with me on this one.) In one of their timeless classics we learn about The Magic Toeshoes. Basically, a young bear wants to be a ballerina. But her toes are wobbly. So an old ballet master takes pity … Continue reading Your Magic Toeshoes
What’s the point?
Micah 6:8 "And what does the LORD require of you?" (NIV) Today's Thought What’s the point? Have you ever asked yourself that question? I have. It’s a question we ask when we’re feeling overwhelmed or alone or frustrated. But it’s also a question we ask as life goes on and we haven’t figured out how … Continue reading What’s the point?
What if you were water in the desert?
Yesterday my dad would have turned 67. He died in 2014 from several aggressive cancers. After his diagnosis they gave him two years to live… maybe. Then a year. Then six months. He almost lasted two. Have you experienced the death of someone you care about? I’m sure you have. If so, you know it … Continue reading What if you were water in the desert?
The cliffs just started moving closer
James 1:19 "let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger..." (ESV) Today's Thought When I was young we would go back to the cliffs behind our house. There was a tall cliff on this side, and a tall cliff on that side. In the middle was a vast expanse. We’d … Continue reading The cliffs just started moving closer
What’s the deal with angels?
Hebrews 1:14 “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (NIV) Today's Thought So what’s the deal with angels? Well, the answer may surprise you. They’re mentioned 273 times in the Bible; and “angel” is a word that means “messenger.” So an angel is basically a messenger of God. … Continue reading What’s the deal with angels?
The boy who thought he was a turkey–and the true meaning of Christmas
John 1:9 "The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world." (ESV) Today's Thought Joseph Shulam is a pastor in Jerusalem. He tells a strange-but-powerful story that sears the true meaning of Christmas into your mind. One day after coming home, a young boy took off his clothes and went into the back … Continue reading The boy who thought he was a turkey–and the true meaning of Christmas
You’re incredible. Except when you do this
Matthew 6:27 "And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" (ESV) Today's Thought Humans are incredible creatures. On average we have 37 trillion cells in our body. And our eyes can distinguish between 2 and 7 million colours. Million! But do you want to know something … Continue reading You’re incredible. Except when you do this
Merry or Meaningful?
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works..." (ESV) Today's Thought According to the ads you see on TV, Christmas should make everyone happy. Plus, with all the stories and songs we hear in church and on the radio about peace and joy, you’d think it’d be a slam-dunk … Continue reading Merry or Meaningful?
Stop it
1 Peter 5:8 "Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." (ESV) Today's Thought Stop beating yourself up. The Devil doesn’t need another ally. By Matthew Ruttan
