Last night, before we all turned in I shared with the family “the other side of the nativity.”Award-winning author, Philip Yancey, in his book, “The Jesus I Never Knew” shares,“Christmas cards of the religious genre typically depict a serene manger scene with Mary and Joseph surrounded by shepherds, animals, etc. All is calm. But when … Continue reading Silent Night? Not so much…
Month: December 2021
Who were the mysterious Magi?
Matthew is the only gospel writer to include the story of the magi. He starts out their story by writing: "After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, in the time of King Herod, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem saying, “Where is the one who is born king of the Jews? For … Continue reading Who were the mysterious Magi?
Broken? Be encouraged – you’re right where God can use you.
Read through the Bible and you will see a pattern. God tends to use those who are weak and broken. 19th century pastor, J.R. Miller, once wrote, “Christ is building His kingdom with earth's broken people. Men want only the strong, the successful, the victorious, the whole - in building their kingdoms. But God is … Continue reading Broken? Be encouraged – you’re right where God can use you.
Just Another Day? Sometimes, but not always.
Wow… what a day this must have been for Simeon. You get up like you do everyday. Nothing particularly different about this day. Next thing you know, you are face-to-face with the Savior. Luke records it this way… “At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and … Continue reading Just Another Day? Sometimes, but not always.
Beware of these pitfalls of ministry
I was recently asked what pitfalls I saw in ministry. Below is what I wrote in response. The list is not exhaustive and in no certain order. Even if you're not in vocational ministry, the principles can easily be translated into volunteer church leadership. nw Thinking it will always be wonderful. It will get … Continue reading Beware of these pitfalls of ministry