At a monthly, regional meeting of church elders in central Ontario, my colleague and friend, William Han, spoke about evangelism. He’s served as a pastor, as the Executive Vice President at Lausanne Canada, and is currently a church planting catalyst with the North American Mission Board. The more he spoke, the more passionate he became. … Continue reading Personal THEN powerful
Jesus Christ
Peace when it seems fragile
Today many of us wake to disturbing news. We hear of rising tensions between America and Iran. Just a few weeks ago we were celebrating the birth of the Prince of Peace: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). In times like … Continue reading Peace when it seems fragile
“Is your face turned toward me?”
Dallas Willard tells a touching story about a young boy who needed some assurance. At night, unable to sleep, he went into his daddy’s room and crawled into his bed. But because it was dark he couldn’t tell if his dad was facing him or not. “Is your face turned toward me, Father?” he asked. … Continue reading “Is your face turned toward me?”
4 ways to draw closer to God
James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” When we cultivate a closer relationship with God, we experience his power and presence more and more. Consider the example of Mary. In her famous song of praise in Luke 1:46-55, she shows how she is close to God in at … Continue reading 4 ways to draw closer to God
The courage equation
Merry Christmas! On December 25th we praise and thank God for coming to us in Jesus. In Luke 2:10 the angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” For ALL the people—including you. Notice how the angel started his message: … Continue reading The courage equation
The math behind Jesus as Messiah
Christmas is coming. It’s practically here! Amidst the clatter of Christmas it’s easy to forget why the arrival of Jesus caused such a stir over 2000 years ago. A part of the reason why it was such big news was because he was the long-awaited Jewish “Messiah.” It’s a Hebrew word that means “anointed one.” … Continue reading The math behind Jesus as Messiah
Saviour?
An air force pilot told Max Lucado about the time he forgot to put on his own seat belt. He went through all the other checklists, but he forgot to do up his belt. His jet was designed in such a way that after it took off he couldn’t buckle up after the fact. So … Continue reading Saviour?
Marana Tha
Today I’d love to share a short, special prayer with you so that you can include it in your daily arsenal. -When you’re on your knees, or not. -When you’re driving, or walking. -When you’re calm, or fed up. -When you’re composed, or frazzled. It’s biblical, easy to memorize, and powerful. “Marana Tha.” It’s Aramaic … Continue reading Marana Tha
Wild goose or tame geese?
Speaking to his fellow disciples, Peter wrote: “you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). They are chosen, royal, holy and special. Why? So that they can “declare … Continue reading Wild goose or tame geese?
Being persecuted for the right (not wrong) reasons
For a few days this week I’m sharing some thoughts about Matthew 24. It’s where Jesus answers a question about when the Jerusalem temple would be torn down, and also when he would return at the “end of the age” (v. 3). In response, he offers various insights about what to expect, including this: “Then … Continue reading Being persecuted for the right (not wrong) reasons
