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 […]
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 […]
Saying “No” is More Powerful Than You Realize
Do you struggle with saying “yes” too much like I do? It has been said many times, in many ways, by many people, yet it is so vital and powerful a principle that it bears repeating. The thing that will bring power and purpose to your life is not saying “yes” to the right opportunities, […]
Grace Sets You Free From Performance
Do you ever feel like you have to “perform” in the Christian life? I’ve noticed lately that when I write my personal Scripture reflections, they are often more cautionary than encouraging. (“Be careful about this; don’t do that; watch out over here!”) Why not more hopeful? Why do I reflexively try to put in so […]
Homeless in Fort Lauderdale
Sometimes what we need most is not easy answers, but deeper questions. The other day, I watched homeless people being served by Christians. From my perch high atop a parking garage in Fort Lauderdale, FL, I could see the crowd gather, hear the coordinator pray as she started the feeding time and watch as all […]
