The Jewish leaders were increasingly hostile toward Jesus. Their most intense, murderous fury was directed toward him because he believes “I am” (the Christ, the Son of God), and you will see the Son ...  Read More

“They came to where a large crowd had gathered to wait for Jesus. A man came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, please show your tender mercy toward my son. He has a demon who afflicts him. He has ...  Read More

Martin Luther said that religion is the default mode of the human heart. He knew that we are constantly tempted to rely on what we do for God, instead of relying what he has done for us in Christ.  Th...  Read More

”And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only rewa...  Read More

”Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your...  Read More

As a deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God.Psalm 42:1Loving other people is the second greatest commandment. When we change our thinking and our ways we put others’ needs ah...  Read More

Examine me, O Lord, and try me;Test my mind and my heart.Psalm 26:2Fasting, whether it is all food or just certain things, should cause us to look within ourselves. Look within to what motivates us to...  Read More

The Apostle Paul proclaims that “the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”Living in a world where the media continually reminds us about violence, con...  Read More

Acts of personal sacrifice and spiritual development are woven through scripture.  Scripture also encourages us to help those in need. The Old Testament is filled with statements to care for widows, o...  Read More

Just as we set aside time to spiritually prepare for Christmas Day, it makes sense to set aside time to prepare for the two most important days of the Christian year - Good Friday and Easter. Lent is ...  Read More

”But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than o...  Read More

Lent is a door, an entry way, for people to connect or reconnect with Jesus. Investing the time to observe Lent is spiritually worthwhile. Time is hard for many people today. Life and all its distract...  Read More