Managers in God’s Creation
Human beings are said to be created in the image of God. What does that mean? We can examine the context around this Biblical proclamation in Genesis 1:26–28.
Reflections on Epiphany 2021
We have now entered the season of the church year called Epiphany. The word “Epiphany” has roots in a Greek word meaning ”to shine forth.” While we celebrate the birth of Jesus as Israel’s Messiah in the Christmas season, Epiphany celebrates the revelation or shining forth of the Messiah as the light of the world, a light to all nations.
Whose Song Will We Sing?
Advent joy is different than the fleeting happiness of a “Merry Christmas.” Elizabeth and Mary sing a song that envisions God’s saving power over the oppressive powers of this world.
Institutions and Loss
“Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (Jesus in John 12:24) We live in an age of great change, and great change usually means great losses. How will we respond?
Telling the Truth with Patience: Oaths Revisited
Have you ever been in a situation where you simply could not convince someone of a truth you felt was obvious and self-evident? It can be frustrating. “Why won’t they believe me?” The temptation is to become angry, to lose your temper, and swear.
The Happiness of True Blessings
The blessings of Jesus reflect the values of the Kingdom (Empire) of Heaven which run counter the happiness the world seeks.
When Blessings Become Curses
God blesses us. We can bless God in return. However, because of sin, our words of blessing don’t match our attitudes and actions. Then, our blessings become curses.
Law and Relationships
Many of us have an ambivalent relationship with law. Just mentioning the word “law” brings up many different images in our minds. For most of us, the law means a set of fixed rules and regulations that we are supposed to live by. We operate by law at many different levels. Most of us in …
Repentance and Consequences
After the children of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt, they spent 40 years wandering in the desert before entering the land God had promised to them. Why?
The Reign of God (Part 2)
Jesus will come again in the same way that he ascended to his heavenly throne, in the same way in which he lived his earthly life.