Today is known as Shrove Tuesday. It’s the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. The name comes from a practice in England to “shrive” on this day—meaning confessing our sins and seeking God’s forgiveness. Since many people fast during Lent, there was (and is) a custom of using up fatty foods on this day … Continue reading Shrove Tuesday and confessing sin
mercy
Grace opens doors
She had been caught in the act of adultery. In the very act! She was dragged out in public for everyone to see. According to the law, they could have stoned her. They brought the case to Jesus to test him. He said: “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first … Continue reading Grace opens doors
We want Scott!
In 1991 Scott Norwood played for the Buffalo Bills football team. It was the Super Bowl. There was time for one last play. The Bills were down by one point. That’s when Norwood came onto the field. He was their leading scorer. If he scored, they would win. The world watched as he got ready … Continue reading We want Scott!
A recipe for national happiness?
Generally speaking, people want to be happy. But what is happiness, anyway? Is it related to status, money, or an all-expenses paid vacation? What about a lollipop while watching the sunset? I want to briefly share four “ingredients of true happiness” according to John Calvin, a theologian from the 1500’s. I value his insight not … Continue reading A recipe for national happiness?
Not just what to believe, but how
In Luke 16:14 we are told about Pharisees who “loved money” and who were “sneering at Jesus.” Jesus said: “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight” (verse 15). Shortly afterward Jesus then told the story of … Continue reading Not just what to believe, but how
Showing mercy broadly
In the well-known story of the Good Samaritan, two respectful people—a priest and a Levite—pass by a man who has been stripped, beaten, and left half-dead. He needs help, but they don't. Luke 10:33-34 tell us what happens next: “But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, … Continue reading Showing mercy broadly
The baggage of bitterness
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32). There’s a medieval story about two monks. They came to a choppy river that was very fast moving, but … Continue reading The baggage of bitterness
Imitate God, disappoint Satan
In Luke 6 Jesus is teaching the masses about God’s kingdom and love. He says: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). Yup, it’s a tough time. For you, but also for others. That’s why we should show mercy proactively. Is there someone who has said something to you in haste? Is … Continue reading Imitate God, disappoint Satan
Blessed are the merciful
In Matthew 5:7 Jesus says, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” As I shared yesterday, my Gingrich New Testament dictionary tells me that someone who is “blessed” is the “privileged recipient of divine favor.” In other words, blessed people have been shown generosity (or favour) from God. Those who show mercy … Continue reading Blessed are the merciful
Going out of your way for compassion
Before I tell you about Evan, let me share Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion…” Okay, back to Evan. He was a boy from St. George, Ontario in Canada. He had an inoperable brain tumor. He was so ill that they worried he wouldn’t live long … Continue reading Going out of your way for compassion
The Up Devotional 