Handling Rattlesnakes All things are lawful for me, but not all things are beneficial. 1 Corinthians 6:1a Once upon a time, a man climbed to the top of a tall mountain. As he was admiring the view in the cold, thin air, he noticed a rattlesnake shivering at his feet. The snake said, “Please, sir, … Continue reading Handling Rattlesnakes
Tag: religion
The Trouble with Church
The Trouble with Church And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars: “I know your works; you have a name of being alive, but you are dead.” Revelation 3:1 I have issues with the church – … Continue reading The Trouble with Church
Never Forget
Never Forget This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. Luke 22:19 One tragic moment can turn life around, in ways so painfully new; But in our sorrow, in a thousand ways, we will remember you… Excerpt from Never Forget I work in the air-medical transport community and … Continue reading Never Forget
A Silent God
A Silent God O God, do not keep silence; do not hold your peace or be still, O God! –Psalm 83:1 I grew up in church, attending nearly every Sunday with my family. It was an expectation that I accepted, although church was never particularly meaningful to me. I assumed God’s presence and goodness, although … Continue reading A Silent God
Shifting Realities
Shifting Realities As he stepped out on land, a man of the city who had demons met him. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he did not live in a house but in the tombs. –Luke 8:27 My church family lost a precious member to depression last week. I am not … Continue reading Shifting Realities
Broken Hearts, Open Minds
Broken Hearts, Open Minds We have spoken frankly to you Corinthians; our heart is open wide to you. There is no restriction in our affections, but only in yours. In return – I speak as to children – open wide your hearts also. –2 Corinthians 6:11-13 When I was in my early teens, I was … Continue reading Broken Hearts, Open Minds
Nature and Nurture
Nature and Nurture So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! –2 Corinthians 5:17 About twelve years ago, my family went on vacation to the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was a wonderful trip and included stops in the Badlands, … Continue reading Nature and Nurture
Owning Our Sin
Owning Our Sin Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the guilt of my sin. –Psalm 32:5 I do not like to be reminded of my sinful nature. I fear that by acknowledging my sin … Continue reading Owning Our Sin
Finding Grace in an Imperfect World
Finding Grace in an Imperfect World Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. –Hebrews 4:16 “We live in an imperfect world. Movies, television shows, and novels inspire high expectations for life, but reality seldom flows like a … Continue reading Finding Grace in an Imperfect World
Christian Values: Peace
Christian Values: Peace Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9 The importance of peace in Christianity can hardly be overstated. Of the many desirable characteristics the Bible encourages, only three are referenced more frequently, according to research done by Ben MacConnell on Christian values. In both the Old … Continue reading Christian Values: Peace
Contemplating Grace 