In the book of Isaiah there are four “servant songs” which include prophecies about a future Messiah who is also a servant who suffers on behalf of his people. This Messiah and servant is Jesus. Isaiah 53:12 (CSB) says that “he bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels.” At first glance, this … Continue reading The Righteous for the rebel
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Imperfect
After his resurrection, Jesus gave his followers the great commission: to make disciples of all people (see Matthew 28:18-20). But just before he did that, we’re told something very telling: “When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted” (Matthew 28:17). Some worshiped Jesus—but some doubted! But he tells the group to make disciples … Continue reading Imperfect
Joy has a job to do
Joy has a job to do. Let me explain. Imagine seeing Jesus crucified—and then alive again! The disciples did. Talk about an emotional roller coaster. And what did Jesus tell them to do afterward? To get in touch with their feelings for ten years and then come back for some instructions when they’re feeling all … Continue reading Joy has a job to do
In a world where resurrection is possible
The resurrection is central to Christian faith. Paul says that if Jesus has not been raised then your faith is “useless” (1 Corinthians 15:14). It changes how we see and experience the world. Why? Because in a world where resurrection is possible, anything is possible! The New Testament writers continually highlight that our world and … Continue reading In a world where resurrection is possible
Fear doesn’t define us
Christians all over the world just celebrated the resurrection of Jesus. As I was preparing to lead services this year one of the details in the story that struck me was the description of the women outside the tomb who had just learned about the resurrection: “So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid … Continue reading Fear doesn’t define us
Why it’s called ‘good’ Friday
There’s a marine training facility called Parris Island. A young man signed up who was a bit out of step with the others. He was nice enough—but he just didn’t fit in. As a result he got picked on. A lot. In his barracks there were guys who were particularly mean. One of them came … Continue reading Why it’s called ‘good’ Friday
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
A crisis creates clarity
A crisis tends to create clarity about what’s important. Many of the things we were really concerned about even two months ago are now way down the priority list. We’re now dealing with essentials. And what is essential? Our hope in God. And the people around us. Sure, there are other things. But those are … Continue reading A crisis creates clarity
Through him who gives me strength
In a society that celebrates volume, vanity and rivalry, it is tempting to just think that it’s all up to us, and that when things go well in our lives, that it must be the result of our own strength and unparalleled intelligence. But Paul models a different attitude. In Philippians 4:13 he writes, “I … Continue reading Through him who gives me strength
What you expose yourself to
Christian Keysers has an article about “mirror neurons” in a book called What’s Next? Dispatches From the Future of Science. He’s a super-smart guy with a Ph.D. in neuroscience. In it he highlights findings about how our brains operate. Do you ever feel happy when you see someone else laugh? Or hurt when someone’s in … Continue reading What you expose yourself to
