“Instead”

James reminds us of capsized values. “…you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’” [James 4:14-15]. He’s right. We usually …

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Jesus on Believing, 2 of 5

This is the second of five reflections on John’s gospel. John featured Jesus’ purpose to invite people to “believe” and have eternal life (John 20:31). In this post we look at the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 2:23 to 3:36. Verse 2:23—“many believed in his [Jesus’] name”—seems a hopeful start but, “Jesus on …

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Shared Values

Vladimir Putin wants higher historic ranking. To be an Alexander the Great. Or Julius Caesar, Napoleon, or, especially, a Joseph Stalin. None achieved character awards, but they didn’t care. All had three qualities that, together, made them dominant figures in their time. And having this triad of abilities, their appetite for power over others flourished …

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Sound Faith

Why do some people seem to have more faith than others? Are there special keys for spiritual success? Do some believers generate more spiritual determination than others? The question reminds us of the despairing father in Mark 9:23-24 who asked Jesus to rescue his demonized son. When he asked, “If you can do anything…” Jesus …

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