Lord, why have you allowed us to turn from your path? Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you? —Isaiah 63:17 NLT Maybe we can think of God as being the path. Maybe God’s plan for us involves the path, particularly, staying on it. If…
Read MoreRaised as a Christmas tree farmer’s son, I learned one of the best lessons. Christmas doesn’t just fall on Christmas. This miracle—and all its yuletide joy—happens again on December 26th, December 27th, December 28th and so on. Imagine your dad being awakened by his kids around 5 AM on Christmas…
Read MoreLater, the LORD sent this message to King Ahaz: “Ask the LORD your God for a sign of confirmation, Ahaz. Make it as difficult as you want—as high as heaven or as deep as the place of the dead.” But the king refused. “No, he…
Read MoreA newborn today is often just hours old before his or her face is spread across social circles via technology. Amazing how this Good News not only travels but also is documented for the world to know. (Congrats to all who have welcomed an addition this year!) In an interesting…
Read MoreThose who have been ransomed by the LORD will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness. —Isaiah 35:10 NLT Entering Jerusalem singing and crowned with everlasting joy? This imagery paints a beautiful…
Read MoreThe overwhelming majority of people present at Jesus’ death wanted a Messiah King who would eradicate their problems in the now, not in some far-off future. This outlander riding on a donkey instead of a stallion? This “King” born not in a palace but a barn? How can this Jesus…
Read MoreIn that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion, and a little child will lead them all. —Isaiah 11:6 An imagination is required for this sacred text to…
Read MoreThis has happened to all of us. At the right time at the right place we’ve said the right thing. Of course! We’re brilliant (or mostly brilliant). Here’s a little truth for you. Sometimes I scramble for just the right thing to say at the right time. My job is…
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