Though two and a half months have passed, and I may still have whiplash. The 2024 US Presidential campaign left us all rattled, shook, gob smacked—and really, really ready for the whole ugly mess to be behind us. Thankfully, we survived the political roller coaster of the summer and fall, cast our vote on November … Continue reading Truths to Anchor Your Heart on Inauguration Day
True Strength Starts with Weakness
As the memories of Christmas recede into the background and the fresh start of a new year is upon us, many people will undoubtedly make resolutions tied to the stewardship of their bodies. Getting a gym membership and working out five times a week. Starting that diet and dropping the weight gained over the holidays. … Continue reading True Strength Starts with Weakness
In 2025—Let’s Abide.
We had just landed after a twelve-hour flight. Having just wrapped up a month in China, my jet-lagged friends and I were finally back on American soil. Because we were about to scatter across the country to our homes, we each had different travel arrangements. Some had connecting flights immediately; others would take their time … Continue reading In 2025—Let’s Abide.
“I Am” the Treasure (Part 2)
I don’t often write multi-part blog posts, but when I tried to tackle all seven “I Am” Statements in John, it became apparent very quickly that I would never be able to cram them all into one article. If you haven’t had the chance to read the first part, you can find it here. I … Continue reading “I Am” the Treasure (Part 2)
“I Am” the Treasure (Part 1)
Behold. Believe. Abide. Three active verbs encapsulate the entire message of John’s Gospel. The Beloved Apostle tells his readers that he wrote for the express purpose of their belief: But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life … Continue reading “I Am” the Treasure (Part 1)
My Favorite Books of 2024 (July-December)
It’s that time again! Twice a year I like to do a brief round-up of a few of my favorite reads. Throughout the second half of this year many of my favorite Christian books were rereads, many of which have already made this list; so I won’t take the space to plug them again. What … Continue reading My Favorite Books of 2024 (July-December)
Treasure in the Dark
“And in despair I bowed my head;‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said.”1 Nineteen century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned these words as part of his Christmas poem today known as “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” Longfellow had seen his share of tragedy as his wife died in his arms after receiving … Continue reading Treasure in the Dark
The Cost of Thanksgiving
Sixty bucks. According to statista.com, that was roughly the grocery bill for your Thanksgiving dinner last year, at least if you had ten people around your table.1 While sixty dollars may seem like quite a bit to spend on a single meal, you’d have a pretty tough time eating at any restaurant—even the Golden Arches—for … Continue reading The Cost of Thanksgiving
Help! I’m Supposed to Lead a Small-Group Discussion!
Small groups Bible and book studies have become a vital component of many thriving churches. The more informal and intimate atmosphere fosters transparency and allows mentoring relationships to grow and flourish. I’m sure no two of these groups—even within the same church—are identical in their operation, yet no doubt their similarities far outweigh their differences. … Continue reading Help! I’m Supposed to Lead a Small-Group Discussion!
From Limelight to Shadows: Growing in Humility
A little different. Strange. Eccentric. A bit off. Straight-up weird. No matter how you put it, John the Baptist was not your average guy. He dressed funny, had a strange diet, and played a unique role in prophetic history. Despite his unorthodox appearance, John had a significant following as he prepared people for the coming … Continue reading From Limelight to Shadows: Growing in Humility
Bible Study Nerd 