One of the most helpful things I have learned about the Christian life is that all behaviors – both good and bad – begin in our thoughts.
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The early days of aviation were filled with both great risk and great reward. Daredevils such as Charles Lindbergh, and those who followed after him, continually pushed the boundaries of their frail planes as they flew them over ever-increasing distances.
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If someone were to ask you what was the greatest day of your life, what would you say? What is the first thing that would come to your mind? You might think, “It was the day I was born – when I sucked in that first lungful of breath and the unending adventure began.”
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There’s been a lot of debate about this passage. Typically, it has to do with personality types – the “Martha” who is harried and worried and the “Mary” who is serene and contemplative. But the meaning of this account goes well beyond that. It has to do with a fundamental decision about discipleship.
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One of my family’s favorite movies is “The Princess Bride.” When it came out in 1987, this quirky film surprised everyone with its popularity. To this day, it is still a favorite of thousands. My wife and kids and I have seen it more times than I can count.
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Most of us are familiar with the Parable of the Good Samaritan. But in reading it recently, my attention wasn’t drawn to him as much as to the other two men who came across the one who was attacked. We’re told that one was a priest and the other was a Levite. That is to say, these were religious individuals who didn’t lack for knowledge regarding the importance of extending mercy to those in need.
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Well, here we are in the opening hours of a brand-new year. Our walls display bright, new calendars. Our desks sport sharp, new date books. For at least one friend, it means that he gets to carry around a brand-new Franklin Planner. For better or worse, 2020 has arrived!
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The Apostle John’s description of the incarnation is one of the greatest pieces of theology ever penned. The eternal Son of God, at a point in time, left the halls of heaven where He had reigned in glory and became a human being.
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I was struck once again this year by how often bells are the theme of Christmas songs. There’s “The Carol of the Bells,” “Christmas Bells are Ringing,” “Silver Bells,” “Jingle Bells,” “Jingle Bell Rock.” Bells and Christmas seem to go hand in hand. Have you ever wondered where the idea of Christmas bells came from?
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Christmas. It’s many things: familiar carols, bright lights, seasonal decorations, family gatherings, great food, and special worship services. It’s also the time when we can give gifts to those we love – with the hope that we’ll hear the words, “It’s just what I needed.”
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We hear a lot of complaints about how dark it is here in Indiana this time of the year. In fact, there are those who suffer from what is called “seasonal affective disorder.” The lack of light saps their energy and triggers moodiness if not depression.
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I’ve got a love affair going with Thanksgiving. It’s been going on for over 60 years. Hands down, it’s my favorite holiday. Here’s why.
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For many, the idea of giving thanks “in all circumstances” can be a challenge. When disappointments come our way or when bad things happen, the thought all too often arises, “How in the world can I give thanks for that!?!” Believe me, I can relate.
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I recently came across an adaptation of George Reavis' fable, “The Animal School.” It was originally written in 1940 when he was superintendent of the Cincinnati Public Schools. See if you don’t see some lessons to be learned regarding both the home and the church.
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Part of our home library consists of several picture books with the intriguing title, Where’s Waldo. If you’re a parent or grandparent, Waldo may inhabit your bookshelf as well. For the uninitiated, Waldo is a geeky-looking, glasses-wearing nerd with a striped shirt and a goofy hat.
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The late Dallas Willard was one of the most insightful theologians of his day. Time and again he called everyday people to become every day disciples. Often, he used the text above as an example of that. We know it as “The Great Commission.” Yet, as Willard points out, all too often there’s a great omission in the great commission.
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In the gospel of Luke a story is recorded that most of us are familiar with. But just recently I saw a line in it that struck me hard. Here’s the story.
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Quite a few years ago, NFL legend Mike Ditka, while giving a news conference after being fired as the coach of the Chicago Bears, decided to quote the Bible. "Scripture tells you that all things shall pass," a choked-up Ditka said after leading his team to only five wins during the previous season. "This, too, shall pass."
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A number of studies have shown that social media tends to depress people. Really! While we may say that we use it to keep in touch with friends and family, all too often there’s a dark side to it.
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In light of the recent shootings in schools, malls, and movie theaters, an old term has taken on new meaning. “Situational awareness,” once used by flight instructors to their students is now being used by self-defense instructors to their clients and even parents to their children.
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