The apostle John had a very simple and direct way of saying things: “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (1 John 4:8). He’s saying that if you don’t love, then you don’t know God. Love is so central to who God is, that we can’t neglect it in our … Continue reading Can you imagine the sun with no heat?
love one another
You + Jesus = Compassion
I have a theory: When you think you’re better than other people, you tend to look down on other people. But here’s the flip side. Your compassion towards others increases when you take seriously the extent of your own need. As humans, we don’t tend to want to acknowledge our own flaws. And don’t get … Continue reading You + Jesus = Compassion
Independent or Inter-dependent?
Something a lot of people want to be is independent—not having to rely on other people for anything. It goes along with being “self-made” or “self-reliant.” But one of the things COVID-19 has taught us is how inter-dependent we are. This point was made in a recent conversation I had with a friend and colleague … Continue reading Independent or Inter-dependent?
Today is Maundy Thursday. Here’s why
Maundy Thursday is one of those days that leaves a lot of people scratching their heads. What does the name mean? Why do some churches hold special services? The word “Maundy” comes from Jesus’ words in John 13:34. Although he spoke Aramaic, the oldest records of his words are in Greek. Those words have been translated … Continue reading Today is Maundy Thursday. Here’s why
How will we judge ourselves?
Why do bad things happen? Well, in certain situations that’s an easy question to answer. For example, if we drive carelessly and hurt ourselves in an accident the reason is because we were driving carelessly. But there are other times when an explanation isn’t so easy. But do you know what? Even when we don’t … Continue reading How will we judge ourselves?
To simply listen
Today is Valentine’s Day. Although it’s a day often characterized by cards, chocolates and romance, did you know that Valentine was actually a Christian martyr from the 3rd century? [If you want to know more about him, or some advice for a stronger love, click on the blog post below.] But today I want to … Continue reading To simply listen
A wall you build between you and God
Your ego is a wall you build between you and God. Let me explain. Ego is an inflated sense of self; a disproportionate love of self; and a me-first approach to life which reeks of superiority. By focusing on how great you think YOU are, you neglect how great God is, and how other people … Continue reading A wall you build between you and God
When you’re always rushing
Jesus says, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). John writes that “if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us” (1 John 4:12). To the Romans, Paul says, “Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up” (Romans 15:2). I don’t … Continue reading When you’re always rushing
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
You complete the broken statue
In 2007 The Denver Post reported a story about a 22-foot statue of Jesus. During a storm, lighting struck and cut off Jesus’ hands and feet! The nuns who took care of it were asked if or when they could replace the hands and feet. They weren’t really sure since they relied on donations. Fair … Continue reading You complete the broken statue
