Christian joy is not just a giddy, light-hearted, frothy emotion. Joy is meatier than that; it has substance. It girds us up and lightens our path even through the darkest of days. “The joy of the Lord IS our strength.” Joy is not born from our past, present or future circumstances. Joy is born from […]
Cross
Be Thankful But Don’t Camp Under the Empty Cross
As is my yearly practice, as this is Holy Week on the Christian calendar, I will be reading each narrative found in the Bible that portrays the immediate events that led up to the Cross. I will pause and feast on Jesus’ great discourse in John 14-17. I will pause and somberly reflect on His […]
No Roses But A Greater Sacrifice
This week is the second busiest week for florists, coming in just behind Mothers Day weekend. Roses and bouquets, chocolates, fine wine, dinners out, and other romantic gestures will reign supreme. Even kids will get into the action by giving each other store-bought valentines. It’s Valentines Day! But did you know this day was initially […]
The Cross – Our Muster Point
Ephesians 4:1-5 -“I, therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one […]
Lay It Down With No Strings Attached
Matthew 11:28-29 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Have you ever fallen victim to the old ‘money on a […]
Martyr Complex or Laying Down Your Life?
A few years back, I had a fantastic discussion with friends on what it meant to lay down our lives for others. What did Jesus mean when He said,” Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.“? (John 15:13) Martyrdom was the first thing that came up […]