In the past few devotionals, I have been sharing some insights about a parable Jesus told in Matthew 25 about his return.In short, a groom shows up at his own wedding banquet. Five women who were faithfully waiting for him get let in to the festivities. Five women who were unprepared get left out. The … Continue reading Faith, loving action, perseverance
virtue
The virtue nobody wants
John Ortberg writes: “Obedience has become the virtue that nobody wants.”*What does he mean?The apostle Peter says that to “make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue” (2 Peter 1:5). Patience is a virtue, as we often hear. So is kindness. So is loyalty. But many people find obedience a tougher pill to swallow.Perhaps … Continue reading The virtue nobody wants
Anger. The sleeping giant.
Most of you have probably not committed murder. But you have probably been very angry at someone.Here’s the connection.In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus said: “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that … Continue reading Anger. The sleeping giant.
Resume Virtues vs. Eulogy Virtues
David Brooks is a New York Times columnist. He talks about the difference between “resume virtues” and “eulogy virtues.” He writes: “The resume virtues are the skills you bring to the marketplace. The eulogy virtues are the ones that are talked about at your funeral—whether you were kind, brave, honest or faithful. Were you capable … Continue reading Resume Virtues vs. Eulogy Virtues
Virtue as we enter the new dark ages
I know, it’s a curious title for a devotional. Perhaps even a bit ominous. Professor Alasdair MacIntyre surveyed how different people have understood virtue throughout history. Morality today, he writes, “is in a state of grave disorder.” Although we are not without hope, he makes a rather stark conclusion that we are living in “the … Continue reading Virtue as we enter the new dark ages
Virtue and adversity
In the 14th century Henry Suso wrote: “Where is virtue preserved except in adversity?”* That’s intense. Let’s take a closer look. First, what is virtue? It’s not a word we use very much anymore. But it’s a good one. It comes up in 2 Peter 1. It means ‘moral excellence.’ Second, where is it used … Continue reading Virtue and adversity
Humble Saviour, humble servants
There are certain virtues which never grow old. That’s because God has ordained them. They are eternally good. We should strive for them regardless of whether the year is 1039, 2023 or 3245. One of them is humility. I’ve been spending time thinking about Communion since this past Sunday was World Communion Sunday. This Sacrament … Continue reading Humble Saviour, humble servants
Presently, not just eventually
“make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue…” (2 Peter 1:5, ESV) Salvation. It’s a big word. When a lot of people hear that word, they think about heaven. And they should; it’s one of God’s promises. When you believe in who Jesus is and what he has done for you on the cross, … Continue reading Presently, not just eventually
Counter-cultural modesty
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” (1 Corinthians 6:19) Over time some things become less common—like Sunday night dinners, board games, or home-made gifts. But that doesn’t mean they don’t still have value. Here’s another: Modesty. Some of … Continue reading Counter-cultural modesty
Re-thinking what your legacy will be
In John 15:16 Jesus said: “I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” What impact will I have on the world? What will my legacy be? What kind of a difference will I make? In my experience, people tend to think of their impact or influence in the world … Continue reading Re-thinking what your legacy will be
