gift (65)

Ian

Why So Serious?

Luke 18:15–17 Faith is a serious business. It’s true. From an orthodox Christian perspective, it has an eternal impact. So, it is serious. Serious, though, doesn’t mean solemn. A few years ago, I experienced a life-changing question: what is your first experience of God? I…

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Ian

Not Yours, But God's

Psalm 69:1–5, 30–36; Genesis 17:1–13; Romans 4:1–12 “Abram” translates to “exalted ancestor”. “Abraham” translates to “ancestor of a multitude”. While Ismael was Abraham’s son (the son he had with Sarah’s servant), it didn’t quite connect with Abraham as Ishmael wasn’t a result of him and…

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Ian

Yieldingly Strong

Malachi 1:6–14; 1 Peter 2:1–10 Many years ago, there was a Star Trek show called Voyager. Overall, I don’t remember much about it, but I do recall this scene between Neelix (guest alien onboard) and Tuvok (i.e., Vulcan, humorless, emotionless, kind of like a robot):…

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Ian

Neglection

Proverbs 1:20–29; Hebrews 2:2–11; Hebrews 10:23–25 It’s been pretty normal that there will be some dramatic (and probably horrific) story of neglect that will be in the news. Children and animals recovered from bad situations; situations where the health and well-being (including mental and spiritual)…

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Ian

Peace-Filled Traditions

Matthew 15:1–9; Luke 11:42–46 Yesterday (or the weeks prior to it), all Americans had the opportunity to participate in a great tradition…voting. Regardless of whether your candidates won or lost, there is something great in this tradition. People choosing their leaders is a great gift,…

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