I do “contemplation” pretty well. It’s in my nature to be somewhat quiet and at rest (as my waistline will attest). But there’s a difference between rest and redemptive silence. Recently, I have not been able to begin my day in silence the way I have been accustomed to, and I my soul has been … Continue reading
I recently purchased and downloaded Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Wow. Considered to be one of the most amazing works of Western music, its power and beauty can be breathtaking. But, as I listened, something struck me about the piece. In case you didn’t know, the 9th is long. Over an hour (that’s pretty rare in our modern world, … Continue reading
As mentioned, here are some resources on scripture from my message on June 24. On Galatians: Galatians. This a great series of short commentaries. (This is also a medium-length commentary series that’s pretty well done.) On The Bible in General: Scripture and the Authority of God: How to Read the Bible Today by NT Wright. … Continue reading
An Australian business leader once told me when he shared his faith with a Japanese CEO, the response was dismissive: ‘Whenever I meet a Buddhist leader, I meet a holy man in touch with another world. Whenever I meet a Christian leader, I meet a manager at home only in this world like I am.’ … Continue reading
Our Father, who lives in the heavens, May Your name be kept holy. May Your Kingdom come, May Your will be done, On earth just like it’s done in Your presence. Give us this day our daily bread And forgive our sins As we forgive those who sin against us. Don’t bring us to the … Continue reading
In the legend of Narcissus, a youth who is consumed with his own beauty is tricked into gazing at a reflection of himself. Unable to leave the beauty of the reflection, he eventually dies. ——————- As I wrote a few weeks ago, in a very real way I think the key to spiritual growth is … Continue reading
I apologize ahead of time for the length of this, but this has been on my mind for a while now, and I wanted to share it. Hopefully it all makes sense. I’ve worked for churches now for 14 years. I know I’m supposed to say something higher, and more important sounding, like, “I received a … Continue reading
Our Father, who lives in the heavens, May Your name be kept holy. May Your Kingdom come, May Your will be done, On earth just like it’s done in Your presence. Give us this day our daily bread And forgive our sins As we forgive those who sin against us. Don’t bring us to the … Continue reading
Part of this post appeared in a message I gave at my church in 2010. How do you view evangelism? How does your church view reaching out to the surrounding world to proclaim Jesus’ Lordship? Ever thought of it as a song? Ever thought of it as The National Anthem? Here’s my thought process: Most … Continue reading
