darkness (48)

Ian

Sharpening and Armor

Matthew 15:10–20, Luke 6:39–42, Ephesians 6:12–18 In our current political and cultural climate, there are plenty of sharp barbs being thrown out. If we wanted to, we could say flaming arrows, which is metaphorically accurate. It’s pretty nuts, and certainly unloving, unpeaceful, impatient (i.e, doesn’t…

Continue reading...
Ian

Heart and Purpose

Psalm 20, Isaiah 50:7–11, John 3:16–21 “May he give you what your heart desires and fulfill your whole purpose.” Psalm 20:4 What does your heart desire? What is your WHOLE purpose? Those are two questions that humanity has wrestled with since the eyes/hearts/minds of Adam…

Continue reading...
Ian

Fifth Sunday during Lent

Isaiah 30:18–26, Isaiah 61:10–11, 1 Corinthians 3:5–11, 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 We are the bridge between the past and the future, with one foot in the past and one foot in the future. The past of glory was gone, a faded memory. Perhaps to some it…

Continue reading...
Ian

Salvation of Becoming

Psalm 2; Isaiah 2:1-4; Isaiah 56:1-8; Luke 2:41-52 Many people have taught and believed that once a person prays the Sinner's Prayer that they are safe from Hell. The most famous one was used by Billy Graham to lead people to Christ. It is: Dear…

Continue reading...
Ian

Thursday before the Fourth Sunday of Advent

Genesis 25:25-34, Exodus 15:12-18, Psalm 23 The family life of Isaac and Jacob—the patriarchs of the tribes of Israel—is not ideal. Favoritism of love is shown. Despising of family and property is displayed through hunger. This is not a family form to follow. God’s Word…

Continue reading...