Politics | Hot Summer Topics 2018
You and I would be hard pressed these days to find a news program that doesn’t have at least one political segment in it. Whether it’s bashing Trump or praising him, political issues are constantly making headlines. So, how should our political leaders conduct themselves, and how should we conduct ourselves as good citizens?
Teachable Moments | Unique
I heard a story about a young, aspiring pastor who went to visit an older, established pastor of a large church. Upon viewing all of the resources at his disposal, the younger pastor said, “I want your job!” To which the elder statesman replied, “You may want to do what I do; but you are unwilling to do what I did.” Ouch. But that’s the point of rising to leadership in God’s kingdom: humility comes before honor (Prov. 15:33).
Finding Your Place | Unique
I was privileged to be at the birth of both of my children. Without a doubt, those are two of the most amazing experiences of my life. There’s just something extra special — I’d say miraculous — about a new birth. So, it’s no wonder Jesus took this awesome reality and used it to teach us an essential truth about our salvation and how to live as spiritual people.
The End Of Time | The Story
Have you noticed that there are several “restoration” shows on TV these days, such as home restoration, auto restoration, and even antique restoration? It seems that there’s a “restoration fascination” going on in our culture. Well, I have good news, beloved. One day, the Lord Himself will return and restore all things — really, make all things new. It’s the final chapter in His Story.
Paul’s Final Days | The Story
​Have you ever watched one of those audition-type TV shows like America’s Got Talent, American Idol, or The Voice? The best ones in my view are when the contestant initially appears unassuming, but then blows the judges and the audience away by his or her performance. Well, about 1950 years ago, a rather unassuming man stepped onto the world’s stage and blew everyone away. His name was Paul; and he finished well.
Resurrection | The Story
Unexpected comebacks are the most exciting events in sports. To see a team or an individual come from so far behind to claim the ultimate victory is a thrill-ride of emotion. Well, beloved, in the resurrection of Jesus we see the ultimate comeback in the history of the world. And a lady named Mary Magdalene witnessed it first.
Hour Of Darkness | The Story
Recently we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day. Other than the need to wear green so we don’t get pinched, and a familiarity with the legend of him driving out the snakes in Ireland, I’m not sure most of us could really explain why we celebrate this day and this man. I myself honestly couldn’t until quite recently. I assure you his life is worth remembering (and honoring) — for he lived in the spirit of the One who stayed up on a cross for us.
Jesus Begins His Ministry | The Story
I don’t know if you’re like me, but when I get home at night and check the scores, if my team won, then I’ll watch the highlights. (If they lost, I won’t bother.) Now, translate that rationale to my take on the Bible… I checked the final score (i.e. read the end) and Jesus wins. So, I’m more inclined to watch His “highlights.”
Your Wisdom | Show Me
Truthfully, I’ve had a hard time getting into the winter Olympics this time around. But I did see one story about a Russian curler who got caught “doping” (i.e. using performance enhancing drugs). Beloved, this is curling we’re talking about. Curling. Was that really necessary?!?! No way; that was totally foolish. Sometimes foolishness is easy to spot, but we’re all guilty of it from time to time.
Your Faith | Show Me
So…maybe you’ve heard. There’s this football game being played on Sunday the 4th. But, does anybody around here care?!?! Still, it’s a good excuse to get together, eat some finger foods, and watch some commercials. As for me, I won’t be rooting for either team, but I will be rooting for some individuals — like Nick Foles. He’s the quarterback for the Eagles, and he has a good story of persevering faith. And it’s that kind of faith we’ll be discussing over the next month as we walk through the Book of James together.
