THE STORY OF JESUS: Isaiah 28-30 “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength. But you would have none of it.” (Isaiah 30:15) God created us to enjoy His ‘very good’ creation rest. Not ‘rest’ as in doing nothing, but a sense of peace in what we do. A quiet confidence…
A love that goes beyond the law!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 14:1-6 “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?” (Luke 14:3) When I read a law in the bible, I want to explore WHY that law is there. Some laws are harder than others, and some I cannot figure out. But as I reflect on most of the laws, I…
Prone to wander…
THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 13:31-35 “As a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.” (Luke 13:34) Jesus knew he was going to suffer and die, and He knew He had no choice. He also knew WHY He had to suffer and die, because of our unwillingness. Unwilling to come to our…
Integrity… when no one is watching!
In the end, we find what we seek!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 13:28-30 “There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth…” (Luke 13:28) Jesus is still speaking about those who thought they were ‘saved’. He describes a scene where people from all times and places gather. It will be a huge feast and celebration, and Jesus will welcome each one. But there will…
Does He recognize me?
THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 13:22-27 “I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me you evildoers!” (Luke 13:27) Jesus is asked about how many or few will be saved. He shifts the focus to the man who asks: ‘you make sure you are saved!’ Apparently many think they’re saved, but Jesus does not…
Where are You God?
THE STORY OF JESUS: Psalm 89 “Lord, where is your former great love?” (Psalm 89:49) This psalm starts by repeating God’s promises to guard His people forever. But then it faces how God’s people are crushed and defeated. Ethan (the Psalmist) cries out to God, ‘where are You???’ ‘Why are you withholding Your love from us?’ Many…
Bringers of salvation???
THE STORY OF JESUS: Isaiah 24-27 “We have not brought salvation to the earth.” (Isaiah 26:18) We live in a sin-messed world: “a curse consumes the earth!” (24:6) God hates the violence, abuse, injustice, misery, immorality. He established Israel to be a light in a dark world, but that light faded. Called to be a blessing, they…
Leaders held accountable!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Isaiah 20-23 “I will depose you from your office, you will be ousted from your position. (Isaiah 22:19) Isaiah is speaking against the leaders of all countries, including Jerusalem. “The authorities that exist have been established by God.” (Romans 13:1) This does not make them right or good, but responsible and accountable. Church leaders…
Small yet significant!
THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 13:18-21 “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like a mustard seed.” (Luke 13:20) Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, and to some yeast. On the one hand it is small, insignificant, almost invisible. And yet it packs a punch, and impacts much and…