You Are a Theologian

One of the great joys of my life is opening up a new book. I especially love reading books about theology. Theology, as a word itself, may cause vastly different responses. Perhaps it may elicit indifference, or disdain. Perhaps joy and excitement. Perhaps confusion. Perhaps horror. What is theology? Depending upon whom you ask you … More You Are a Theologian

Grace and Justice

One of my favorite things about God is that He is gracious. In fact, God reveals Himself to Moses as One who is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness…” (Exodus 34:6 ESV) I don’t know about you, but I need to know more about these things. I think … More Grace and Justice

Prayers For Our Country

One of my favorite tools in my study is a little black book that belonged to one of my predecessors. It’s a rather ordinary little book that has certainly been through the wringer. However, its appearance ought not to be assumed equivalent with its value. It is a prayer book of the American Anglican tradition … More Prayers For Our Country

Have Ye Any Cheer Left?

Just this past week I was grabbing groceries for my family. While I was checking out, the individual working the register saw our church’s logo on my vest, and asked if I was involved with the church. I introduced myself as the pastor. This person then walked closer and said very seriously, “May I ask … More Have Ye Any Cheer Left?

I Was Just Thinking . . .

Years ago my wife and I were obsessed with a sitcom called “Everybody Loves Raymond.” The show is in many ways a modern classic, and you likely are aware of it. In one of the earlier episodes the retired curmudgeon, Frank Barone, finds new life as he embraces a “career” as a writer. The end … More I Was Just Thinking . . .

Look Beyond the Suffering

As a prophet, Jesus reveals to us the will of God for our salvation. In the Parable of the Weeds (Matt. 13:24-30, 36-43), Jesus helps us make sense of His sometimes-cryptic language found throughout His parables. We know that the Lord Jesus often employed parables, or visual stories with one big idea, to teach. In … More Look Beyond the Suffering

With Heart and Mouth

God is absolutely jealous for His people. He isn't jealous like a little boy is jealous for his favorite book. God is jealous for His people and their affection and adoration, as a faithful husband is jealous for the affections of His wife. In John 4:21-24, Jesus spells out rather clearly the sort of worship … More With Heart and Mouth

Where Are You Headed?

The Lord Jesus Christ said, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matt. 7:13-14 … More Where Are You Headed?