I had never heard the word “vexed” until we moved to Jamaica where a more British vocabulary was spoken. “Vexation” is the state of being annoyed, frustrated, or anxious. Apparently, there is a positive side to vexation – like, being grieved, troubled, or perplexed – that can create genuine actions for the good. It seems to include an element of … Read More
A tree cannot exist without its roots. Usually gnarly and unsightly, the roots serve the tree in many ways. Here is what I found in summary: The root system of a tree performs many vital functions. In winter, it is a store-house for essential food reserves needed by the tree to produce spring foliage. Roots absorb and transport water and minerals from the soil to the rest of … Read More
If we truly understand what being a Christian is, then it’s a no-brainer to become one. Freeing Christianity from insipid moralistic codes and confusing theological constraints and focusing our soul towards Jesus Christ and our union with Him, the gloriousness of what it is to be in Christ is slowly revealed to us. (Don’t gloss over that last sentence. It’s … Read More
The other night, Rhonda and I happened upon a short film on the life of Florence Nightengale. At a time when medicine was a “men-only” profession, she had a calling from God to be a nurse taking her into unexplored territory challenging the status quo. Her father did not approve. Yet, she was determined to fulfill her calling no matter … Read More
Christians are often concerned about God’s will for their lives. They usually mean, “What does God want me to do for Him while I’m on earth?” It’s a question related to vocation. It’s also a question that gets elevated above a more crucial one. A better and more important question, because it cuts deeper into our being, is “What “work” … Read More
God is continually mucking around in my life challenging my self-sufficiency and self-righteousness. The process is grueling but necessary. I don’t like it but I keep asking for it. So, here’s the latest… I’m taking my cue from Paul’s spiritual journey (though mine pales miserably to his) as he compares his background to his current intense desire to know Christ. … Read More
Jesus is speaking to us during this challenging time. He always has the right words in our times of need. Though some of His statements are familiar, they have more meaning during this pandemic. Or, what He says may be new to you. The important thing is to apply these words to your situation today. Live them. When you do, … Read More
In December, a child entered my life, not unlike Jesus himself. I may be a heretic, but I think he’s about as close to an image of Jesus as a human can be. I don’t think this is hyperbole or simply a proud grandpapa bragging on his new grandson. He has changed my life. Not only an adjustment to my … Read More
Having come to the conviction that God is everywhere present and filling all things, Randy sat with Pastor Bill at lunch where they randomly talked about what they were eating. Randy: “I sometimes wonder if I’m too casual about what I put into my body. After all, isn’t this the place where God lives?” Pastor Bill: “I don’t think you … Read More
I’m not quite sure how it happened (Was I was taught or just caught “moralism?”) but for most of my life I thought the Christian faith was primarily about moral behavior, mine and others. This is what that looked like… I thought being a Christian primarily involved: not sinning behaving morally upright in my outward actions staying away from people … Read More
