Author: Norm

There is irony in this statement about Joseph.If his hopes were in Jesus, his hopes were now dead.I can imagine him struggling, questioning, grieving, despairing.I can imagine others snickering at Joseph as he did this.‘So much for your kingdom hopes, Joe, where’s your king now?’ This irony is felt every time Christians celebrate Christmas or…

In the Jewish temple, there was a room called ‘The Most Holy Place’.Though the whole temple was holy, this small room was especially holy.This room was where the symbol of God’s presence was kept.You might say, this was God’s room in the house, where God lived.This room was divided by a curtain, or veil, to…

In this moment, Jesus is echoing Psalm 22:1.But He is not quoting Scripture to teach a lesson.These words are familiar to Him because He learned them in Torah school.David was inspired to express out loud what he was actually feeling.And Jesus does the same; this is what he actually feels.And who can blame Him, given what…

I believe in Jesus as my Saviour BECAUSE He did not save Himself.This may seem strange, but this is how I see Jesus as good news.Jesus does not come wielding a blade, forcing people to kneel or be knifed.Jesus does not mobilize an army to do His dirty work for Him.Jesus does not make Himself…

What has become of humanity, that we would treat others like this?How can people sometimes be so cruel to others.When I think of my childhood, there were a few kids that I teased.I was a scrawny weakling, but I hung out with two big guys.Unfortunately some kids bore the brunt of our cruelty.This behaviour was…

Pilate asks the question WHY, looking for an explanation.What is the reason for this demand for crucifixion.Mark gives some reasons behind the crowds demand: “It was out of self-interest…” (Mark 15:10)“The chief priests stirred up the crowd…” (Mark 15:11)“Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas…” (Mark 15:15) It was not because of a crime that Jesus committed.It…

I reflected earlier on the wisdom remaining clam and quiet.This can be an effective way of handling a pointless argument.But it can also be an effective witness to others.Pilate has handled controversies like this before.He knows human nature (including his own) but in Jesus he encounters a mystery.Jesus does not fight, neither accusing nor defending.Jesus…

Peter should be the patron saint of those who reject Jesus. His denial of Jesus is very strong. He calls down curses: ‘may God curse me to Gehenna if I am lying’. He swears an oath: ‘I swear to God in heaven, I am not lying.’ His motivation is fear, but his disowning Jesus is…

Some people see winning a debate as a sign of strength.Sometimes wisdom does have a way of making its point hit home.But other times wisdom is seen more in its silence.One of the proverbs captures this tension well: “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.Answer…

There are times when I feel the need to pull out a sword.Not an actual sword, but the sword of my tongue.Though sometimes even a more physical weapon, to defend.I’ve never wanted to kill anyone myself with a weapon.But some people are so cruel and mean, someone needs to stop them.My usual go to, when…