Reflections on the loving kindness of the Triune God
Christians and non-Christians alike hear the siren call of personal glory. Jesus, on the other hand, calls us to the highest delight of giving—of elevating others. Let’s compare these callings. Adam launched the monument-making impulse by wanting to be like God. Since Adam we all celebrate personal significance at some level. Yet the impulse divides …
Read More MonumentsWe all enjoy talking to an active listener. As in the Bible, “The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out” (Prov. 20:5). Yet they’re hard to find! Think of a time when you read a book that captured you—an insightful story that stirred you …
Read More Active ListeningA few years ago I was curious about social networking. How does it work and what does it offer? So I joined Facebook. In the profile page I gave my actual age and social status—I’m an aging single guy. Oh my, was that an awakening! From the start my FB page featured photos of young …
Read More In a RelationshipFriends give life to our living. The bond we have with those we love sets our priorities. Friends offer destinations of heart for our calendars and our pathways. And the man or woman who is rich in friendships has treasure beyond any piles of property, cash, or status that others may hold dear. For many …
Read More Tools, Fools, & FriendsIsaiah asked, “Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?” (Is. 55:2) His question is still lively today. How many of us spend time chasing ambitions that neither nourish nor satisfy? If, at the end of the day, we ask “So what?” …
Read More Effective AmbitionsA while ago I attended an Air Force open house where a team of PJs—rescue specialists—showed off their wares. As part of the event I wore a night-vision device in a dark—virtually black—room. It was amazing: I could see everything! The goggles offer a nice analogy for life. Let me explain. At times life can …
Read More Night VisionThis morning I had a rich experience. I enjoyed a walk with God. Can I tell you about it? But first a “truth in writing” warning: you may be disappointed by my claim. The walk—what God offers me every morning—can be seen as an ordinary “quiet time.” But it’s much more than that. It’s an …
Read More Walking with GodThis morning the verse jumped off the page once again: “And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground” (1 Sam. 3:19). Every time I reach this part of the Bible I know it’s coming. Here’s the problem: my words keep hitting the ground. Sometimes …
Read More Dropping wordsHave you ever lost sleep because your mind is still racing in the middle of the night? And your heart has a dull ache that won’t quit? When a rough conversation with your spouse, a friend, or a colleague is on constant replay. And you’re recycling an endless set of “I-should-haves” at 3 AM? Then …
Read More Peace!“Joy to the world”—the title and refrain of a favorite Christmas carol—because “the Lord has come” is a profound invitation. Those who know Jesus celebrate him and call on others to receive the king! Yet this isn’t a late-summer push for a premature holiday celebration—rather it’s a reflection on the fruit of the Spirit. The …
Read More Joy!