For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is (more…)
love
Don’t Lose the Christ in Christmas
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the (more…)
A Letter To My Brother
Hey, there –
Last week my friends were posting all kinds of photos of their brothers and sisters for Sibling Day, and I couldn’t help but think of you. I don’t even know how long it has been since we talked —15 years, or maybe even 20? I’m not even sure why you cut me out of your life when you did. (more…)
Love’s Evil Twin
“I love you because you make me feel complete.”
“And I love you because you make me feel like the most special person in the world.”
Oh, ain’t love grand?
Trouble is, what most people think of as love isn’t really love at all. It’s selfish because it’s self-gratifying and self-glorifying and, therefore, self-centered. Contrast that with God’s concept of love, which involved giving (more…)
Why You Don’t Want Your Name on the Credits of The Gong Show
Some of you are old enough to remember The Gong Show. The Gong Show was a 1970s version of America’s Got Talent, and like its modern descendent, it was clear that much of America really didn’t have talent. And so instead of buzzing the offending talentless performer, the judge would bang a gong. In many cases, it was about the only (more…)