Entitlement, gratitude, and marketing
Entitlement is the mortal enemy of gratitude. The more we feel we deserve something, the less likely we are to feel grateful when it comes. So, the great and tragic irony of modern marketing is this: the more advertisers tell us we deserve whatever product or service or lifestyle they are selling, the more they […]
Don’t let politics derail your perspective
An Encouraging Word DON’T LET POLITICS DERAIL YOUR PERSPECTIVE Today my friend texted me in despair. “I’ve given up on everything political,” he said. “If things are going to change for the better, it’s going to happen by changing the hearts of men.” How right he was. Today’s landmark Supreme Court decision will forever alter the […]
What Christmas Means to Me
I have no presents to open today. Don’t take that the wrong way. Our family exchanged gifts a few nights ago when my brothers and sisters-in-law were in town, so it’s not like I lost my ticket for the goodie train this year. But, since the gift-giving is done, this morning will bring no fantastic […]
Why Hope and Truth Must Always Coexist
Truth without hope is like light without heat. It may show you the way, but it will not provide the strength to walk in it. … Hope without truth is like a cloud without rain. It may look promising for a while, but it will never provide the nourishment you need. … Churches and sermons […]
How to Not be Overwhelmed at Christmas
Do you ever feel overwhelmed during the Christmas season? Do you find yourself frustrated by the commercialism, by the long lines and busy schedules, by the financial burden and the family hassles? Here is your solution. Selah. In Scripture, to “selah” means to stop and consider, to step back and ponder something of great importance. […]
The Silver Thread
When I was a boy, I once let go of a helium balloon, just to see what would happen. There it went, floating up, up, slowly and silently, gently making its way skyward until it disappeared in the cobalt blue of an open Texas sky. It was beautiful. I could not explain what happened, because […]
Why Some Christmas Songs Make You Cry
Do you ever get extra emotional when you hear certain songs? A friend of mine commented the other day, “I don’t know why, but Christmas songs always bring tears to my eyes, but they’re happy songs! Why is that?” Have you noticed this yourself? Maybe there’s a particular carol or Christmas pop song that just […]
Remember the Past, and Have Hope for the Future
Today is Pearl Harbor Day. “On Sunday morning, December 7, 1941 America’s naval base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by the forces of the Empire of Japan. The attack sank four U.S. Navy battleships and damaged four more. It also damaged or sank three cruisers, three destroyers, one minelayer and damaged 188 aircraft. More […]
Things For Which I Am Thankful
When was the last time you made a list of all the things you’re thankful for? “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” -1 Thessalonians 5:18 I am thankful for a mother who taught me proper grammar…and lovingly insisted on it. I am thankful for […]
Why Does “Growing Old” Bother Us?
Thursdays are usually geared towards answering theological questions I receive in my role as a pastor. However, today I wanted to share a piece that’s not quite “theology” as much as it is a meditation on the cross as an answer to our cultural perspective on the signs of aging. I pray it’s an encouragement […]
