“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ” (Colossians 2:8).In the Odyssey, Ulysses is travelling by boat past the island of the sirens. He knows that when he and his crewmates hear the … Continue reading See to it that no one takes you captive
politics
The vortex
An outdoor adventurer loved to get close to big whirlpools in lakes and other locations. He used a body camera and got up close under the water. He would then post the videos to YouTube.It was exhilarating, but dangerous. During one of his dives he died. He got too close and was sucked into the … Continue reading The vortex
Divisive times
The other day I was thinking about how political a certain issue has become. Why does everything have to be so politicized? Why can’t people respectfully and graciously disagree about something without painting the other person as an enemy? But you and I don’t have to get sucked in to that approach as if it was … Continue reading Divisive times
Is someone on earth Lord, or Jesus?
Lord. It’s who Jesus is. The angel announced to the shepherds that “a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Philippians 2:11 describes how every tongue will acknowledge that “Jesus Christ is Lord.” 1 Corinthians 12:3 explains how “no one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the … Continue reading Is someone on earth Lord, or Jesus?
The polarizing internet
The internet has a polarizing effect. Recently a well-respected Christian organization posted a blog. Since it touched on the topic of politics, the comments came fast and furious. (Apparently, politics can be a touchy subject these days. Have you noticed?) Unfortunately, the comments were highly charged, accusatory, derogatory, and unfair. Have you noticed how quickly … Continue reading The polarizing internet
Seeing straight in a time of name-calling, controversy and spin
We live in controversial times. Race riots make the news, big internet companies are accused of suppressing speech, ‘identity politics’ is all over the place, environmental laws seem to get sidelined for economic gain, and there are random shootings in public places… Part of the problem with these hot-button issues is all the rhetoric and … Continue reading Seeing straight in a time of name-calling, controversy and spin
One thing we should expect from politicians
On Sunday at church I talked about Christian attitudes toward government. To be honest, I was kind of nervous about it. After all, government and politics is a touchy subject these days. There are divisive and polarizing issues. And sometimes it seems that common sense and civility go out the window! I think the congregation … Continue reading One thing we should expect from politicians
Why you should pray for your leaders
Psalm 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (NIV) Today's Thought I want to start today’s devotional by addressing my American readers. Today, Donald Trump is your 45th President. To say he’s controversial is an understatement. But regardless of what you think of him, I encourage you to pray … Continue reading Why you should pray for your leaders
