Life This Side of Heaven

Have you ever taken a long trip, listened to the GPS on your car, and then asked, “Where am I?”  Modern global positioning systems are pretty good.  But have you ever wondered why you’re told to turn off the highway and take what seems like some goat path along the way?  Your life may feel this way sometimes.  But what took place in Joseph's life reminds us it's God who leads and, in faith, we are blessed to follow.

“Do what you love.  Love what you do.” Have you ever head that phrase?  It’s a great piece of motivational advice but it may seem more aspirational than practical. However, as Paul explains, taking another look at what you do begins with re-examining who you are – the person that God has now made us through faith in what Jesus has done for us!

“Have Astronomers Found the True ‘Star of Bethlehem’?”  That provocative question was the title of an article that came out last month in Scientific American. It’s an interesting inquiry – and one that receives a lot of attention at this time of year.  Tomorrow is the Festival of the Epiphany.  It’s that day in the Church Year when we hear about the arrival of the Wisemen, the Magi from the East. Matthew has the answer to this question! And you'll be delighted as the Magi to hear it.

As the New Year stretches out before us just take a look at what’s to come.  This year will mark the launch of the Artemis space flight, the first crewed mission taking us to the moon since Apollo 17 back in 1972. I'm looking forward to watching it. Talk about a big deal! And like you, I’m looking forward to being in worship and hearing God’s Word. Now, you may be thinking to yourself, well, that’s no big deal.  But actually, it is.  And here’s why.

Episode art:  Kevin Gill from Nashua, NH, United States, CC BY-S...

Inclement weather. Traffic snarls. Detours. Flights canceled. Roads closed. As the song goes, "Gee, the traffic is terrific".  But it’s always been that way.  Just ask Joseph.  And check with the Wise Men. There will be changes to our plans and detours in the year ahead.  However, one thing is certain through it all.  With the birth of Jesus, Immanuel, we can take heart and look ahead with confidence – God is with us.

You’re going to laugh but in our house, opening gifts on Christmas Day can go on for hours.  It’s not that there are that many packages under the tree – our gift exchange is actually quite modest compared to most families today.  But there are at least three reasons for it.  And if you look carefully, you’ll notice that this true with God’s gift to us of a Savior, and why the celebration of Christmas endures.

Some gifts that get unwrapped on Christmas Day can’t be used right away. You’ll have to wait until the appropriate time and season arrives. But, here’s the great thing about God’s gift to us of a Savior.  There’s no waiting.  It’s a gift for every season of your life – in fact, every day!

You may well find yourself singing these words in worship today day and asking this same question asked in the hymn, "What Child is This?"  It's based on a poem that written back in 1871. And in it we are confronted the astonishing good news that the Savior has come for us and has brought us His gift of salvation.

Good News is something we always want to shout from the rooftop. But, when it comes to the Good News of our salvation, we’re talking mountaintops!

We invite you to check out the selection of free Christmas eCards on our website. There, you will also find invitations to Christmas worship this week which you can share with friends and family members. You can place them on social media for everyone to see or you can send it to that specific person you have in mind by text or email. You can find them here: https://www.li...

One of the best things about this season is the surprises. There are all sorts of situations that may leave you thinking, “Well, I didn’t expect that!”  For many, the arrival of John the Baptizer, and the message he proclaimed, is another one of those surprises.

Imagine being hired to photograph a wedding and then finding out that you were waiting for the wrong groom. When John languished in Herod's prison, he sent his disciples to ask Him, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” And as we draw nearer to the celebration of Christmas again this year, we may want to ask ourselves if the picture we have of Jesus the right one?

An article came out about this time last year which asked, “Is Christmas No Longer the Same, or Have We Just Grown Older?” It's author lamented that happiness fades as life become more complicated and we're faced with loses, struggles and challenges. So, why does Paul invite us to "Rejoice?" The truth is that with God's gift to us of a Savior, Christmas really isn't the same as we get older. It gets better! And here's why.

Joy, peace, hope!  Like all those treats that tantalize our taste buds at this time of year these words ring in our ears during the season of Advent. So, it shouldn’t surprise us that the holiday culture also makes good use of them as well.  They show up everywhere from seasonal movies to cards and decorations.  But if you listen carefully, as these words are become detached from their source, their meaning becomes lost and fuzzy. Thankfully, Paul points us back to what peace and joy are all about and where they’re found.

"The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat ..." What is Isaiah talking about? The world you and I live in doesn't look anything like that. It may surprise you to know that this, too, is a part of God's Christmas gift to us of a Savior!

Have you ever wondered what Christmas tree farmers do with all of the stumps that are left over after the trees are cut, bundled and sent out for sale? It's impressive. Using the imagery of a stump and a shoot, Isaiah describes how God's love, and His gift to us of a Savior, is more than remarkable. It's a miracle!

It’s hard to imagine, as Micah tells us, that the time will come when nations will no longer to war, and nor will they train for battle.  But what God has described is certain. The peace Micah describes moves beyond a mere possibility. It's found in a Person.

Even though it's only the beginning of December you may have found yourself already singing the familiar words, “We wish you a Merry Christmas." But there's actually a bit of Advent in the verse that follows. In fact, there's a unique tie between Christmas pudding and the words of a prayer you may have heard spoken in church this past Sunday.

The season of Advent is now underway.  And what a precious time it is!  Advent is that season leading up the celebration of Christmas. Listen to the advice that Paul gives to anxious children of God, like you and me, as we await His coming.  He shouts, “Wake up!” But, why does Paul want us awaken?  And what should we do with this time available to us?

In the days leading up to His crucifixion, Jesus shared a parable of what it will be like when He returns in glory on the Last Day.  He likens that day to the arrival of a bridegroom and the joy of a wedding feast. And by His grace, here's how He keeps our faith burning brightly as we await His coming.

The Season of Advent begins next Sunday. Stay tuned to the end of the devotion and discover two free resources for you and your family as you count down the days to the celebration of our S...

Remember the Alamo!  Have you heard that famous phrase but wondered what it is about the Alamo that we’re supposed to remember?  Here in 2 Timothy, Paul gives a similar encouragement.  However, he’s very clear why.  And it's a great passage to hear as you and I get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving!

What's the difference between a complaint and a question?  On the surface, they may sound the same.  However, unlike a complaint which arises from contempt and dissatisfaction, a question seeks an answer.  It’s a sincere and honest inquiry that seeks to better understand the situation. In worship, we're blessed to hear God's answer to those questions and to receive the assurance He provides.

Why bother?  Nobody seems to notice or care.  What’s the point? Have you reached that point where you’ve folded your arms and said to yourself, “Fine!  Let somebody else do the work.”  Trust me, you’re not alone. You can be sure the others feel the same way.  And they may invite you to join in talking about the rest. But there’s someone else who has joined the conversation that you may not realize. Today's a great day to hear what our loving God has to say instead in His Word.

In Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, the prophet talks about the day when the Lord will return in judgment.  On that day He will restore this fallen world broken by sin.  But until then, you can be sure that it’s going to get pretty chilly out there. But listen to the incredible news he announces in this passage.

When it comes to end of the world, and the day of our Lord’s return, the signs of His coming are unmistakable.  And they sound terrifying.  Nevertheless, as you listen to our Savior, you’ll notice that instead of panic He encouraged the disciples to take note – and prepare. They're actually quite useful.

What is pure?  It won’t be long before snow begins to fall.  One of the great activities among children, and even adults, is to try and catch a snowflake on your tongue.  After all, what could be purer than fresh, falling snow?  You might be surprised by the answer. In Christ ... it's you!

Have you ever marveled over that faithful person who sits next to you at church? That's something for which you and I can really kick up our heels.  In fact, as Paul goes on to say, “We ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord.”  And here’s why.

God announces that because of His Son’s life and death for us on the cross, we now stand before Him holy and forgiven through faith.  And now He even sends us out to share this very same Good News with others –  with our family and loved ones, friends and everyone.  You may be thinking, this can’t be right.  God must have someone else in mind.  But remarkably, God invites you, and me, to be the ones to share this Good News.

That rumbling in your stomach?  That’s actually pretty handy.  So is that parched tongue.  Hunger and thirst are actually useful.  And so is our hunger and thirst for God's righteousness. They're the rumbling and groaning acknowledgement that apart from God’s righteousness you and I would perish.  They lead us to look to God for rescue.  And God doesn’t disappoint.

Imitators and imposters. An impersonator is usually someone who pretends to be some one to bring joy to others An imposter, on the other hand, is someone who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive others. And there are plenty of both. When John says that we're children of God it's not a role we play. It's who we are!

Have you ever tried to take a portrait of a sunset, or the Northern lights, and then felt disappointed that it doesn’t seem to display the full beauty you witnessed?  Yesterday, the Church celebrated the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed.  It falls this time every year on November 2.  It reminds us that the day is coming when we, and all who have trusted in the salvation given to us in Jesus, shall see the smiling face of our Savior. But how do you describe such an amazing sight?

Have you ever wondered why Reformation Day and Halloween happen on the same day?  It’s not a coincidence. On the surface, they seem to have nothing in common. But take a closer look.  The events of the Reformation are actually all about a trick and and a treat.

Today you and I get to ask Paul about righteousness!  And more precisely, "Where did you get that?" On the surface, this may not seem like a very difficult question, but as Paul points out, the answer isn’t always obvious.

Not a paper crown, or a crown of ashes, but a crown of righteousness awaits all who long for our Savior's appearing. Paul looked forward to it. And through faith, so can you and I!

Here in Luke we hear that “Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”  But it’s the context, what comes before and after these words, that explains why we can do this with real joy and confidence.

When Paul describes Scripture it’s useful to recognize how remarkable it is to have God’s Word and what it enables us to discover. In the first place, it’s not like any other book that’s come before it or after. As He points out, it's "God-breathed." What does that mean?

Up until this point, Jacob had relied on himself, his strength and his cunning, to claw and grasp for everything. Now God wanted to show him that real strength, comes from clinging to Him through faith. And that’s especially true during times of pain and opposition. This object lesson wasn’t wasted on Jacob. Instead of crushing Jacob, God gave him the victory. And through faith God has also given us the prize of forgiveness and everlasting life.

Here in the Old Testament Book of Ruth we’ve been given a sepia-toned snapshot from the past. Chances are good you've kept some wonderful picture albums over the years of your loved ones. While some photos fade and disintegrate God ensured that this portrait was preserved for us in Scripture. The Book of Ruth hasn’t been lost in the dust of time and neither has Ruth herself. In fact, Jesus has given us a new way to look at those loved ones who have died in the faith.

Have you ever wondered what would happen if the earth’s gravity disappeared for say … a minute.  It might surprise you to know that there are those who have set out to answer that question. Have you ever wondered what would happen if the Lord withdrew His love, care and blessings? Then you'll want to hear what the apostle Paul says about it.

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!  You may be thinking to yourself, "Well, that's nice for our Canadian listeners, but what about the rest of us around the world? Actually today, this very day, turns out to be a great one for all of us to give thanks.  And here's why!

In baseball, when fans see what they believe was an unjust call, they will often cry out at the umpire, “Hey ump, are you blind?” It almost sounds like the complaint that the prophet Habakkuk makes here in the Old Testament. He looks at the injustice all around him and wonders why it seems to go unnoticed by God. And chances are good that you may be as perplexed as the prophet as you see what’s going on in the world around you, and especially when injustice hits close to home.  Why does God tolerate wrong?

When the disciples cried, “Increase our faith,” it seemed reasonable.  After all, if a cup of faith is good, wouldn’t a whole pail full be better?  But faith isn’t something that finds its strength in quantity.

Not once, but twice in one verse, Paul told Timothy to guard what we’ve been given.  He was talking about guarding the truth of the Gospel.  And while it may sound funny to hear, what the apostle was warning about is a form of “identity theft.”  He was talking about protecting the identity you and I have given as a redeemed children of God.

How should you and I react when a friend, or someone you know, claims to have died, seen what’s waiting on the other side, come back and brought a message? Would this help to bring others to faith? Jesus says it won't. However, He does make it clear who and what does.

It’s sad to think that so many Christians mistakenly go through this life waiting, and wondering, if they have eternal life.  Thankfully, faith doesn’t mean holding our breath and crossing our fingers.  Instead, we can breathe a sigh of relief and use those fingers and point to what Jesus has done for us on the cross.  Faith is the joy of hearing and trusting God’s promise that because of what Jesus has accomplished for us at the cross, we have forgiveness of sins this very day.

Where is the best gain to be found in 2026? You may be thinking, “Wait, we’re not even finished with 2025! But analysts are already making predictions of where the greatest gains are be found for the coming calendar year. But Paul points out the two areas that often fall under the radar. They’re not actually stocks, but wow, do they ever brings dividends!

Is life a game? It may feel that way depending on how we approach our leaders and our finances. It may even resemble one game in particular when it comes to how we approach our relationships with one another. But once again, take a look at how God's Word reveals where the victory is to be found.

Artwork by Sebastián Espinoza, Sketchfab, Creative Commons 4.0

Is life a game? On Monday we noted how it can almost seem that way when it comes to how we approach politics and relate to our leaders. And yet, Paul tells us to pray for our leaders and all those in authority. (Be sure to check out Monday's devotion.) It can also seem this way when it comes to how we approach our finances. And it can cause a lot of fights. But have a listen to the caring words that our Savior shares with us.

Artwork courtesy of Unsplash

Is life a game? It may feel that way sometimes. And it can’t denied that there are some similarities. This week we’re going to take a look at three different passages that may have been read in church last Sunday. And with a little imagination, it’s not hard see correlations to some well-known toys and games – whether it comes to our view of politics, how we approach our finances, and even how we get along with others.  But in all of them, take a look at how God reveals where the true victory is to be found. This...

Is it possible for something, or someone, to be so lost that there is no hope?  There are times when it may seem that way.  When it comes to the rescue that is ours through faith in Christ, Paul assures you that's never the case.

Photo credit: Google Maps

There are some people whom others might considered a lost cause. Certainly that was the case when the Pharisees sneered at some in the crowd who had come to hear Jesus preach. In many cases, it continues today. Jesus knew that those listening to His words could easily relate to the joy and relief that comes when someone finds a lost coin.  So Jesus went on to share another “lost” story, but this one involving a person.

This week we’re going to look at three passages from Scripture which all have to do with location and being lost.  Here’s the very nature of the Gospel.  As Jesus puts it clearly in Luke, “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.” And in Holy Scripture, God's remarkable Word, He reveals this rescue.

If you’re tempted to skip Paul’s opening greeting in Philemon, to the heart of the matter, you’re actually going to skip the heart-to-heart nature of what this letter is all about.  Listen to the heart-healthy blessings that come when you and I share God’s forgiveness with each other.

On Monday, we took note of how Paul rejoiced and told Philemon, “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.”  And now, he goes on to share with him this prayer.  He says, “I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith." There's a remarkable blessing that comes when you and I share God's mercy in Christ.

Have you ever watched a movie in which one of the characters is reading something out loud for everyone else to hear.  It might have been an important letter, a story, or the reading of a will?  Inevitably, as the characters grow impatient, someone blurts out, “Skip the pleasantries and get to the good part.” And it may be tempting for us to do that when we're reading Paul's letter to Philemon. However, what may seem like little more than pleasantries are actually what this letter is all about.

Thank God for influencers! The writer to the Hebrews reminds us, “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.”  And the word he uses puts us in mind of those who have a real influence in our lives.

God surrounds us each day with opportunities for sharing His love … and for letting others see it.  Now, the last part of the sentence may sound at first like “virtue signaling.”  The Pharisees were famous for this. They were good at showing how much they ... loved themselves. On the other hand, living in a world which seldom sees love, you and I are blessed with opportunities of letting our love for God be seen in our love for others.

We live in a world where folks often try to move up to a better place at the table or a more comfortable seat on the plane. It's tempting to follow that lead. However, You and I are blessed to have a Savior who was swapped places with us so that we can a seat at His heavenly banquet. And this reshapes how we live right now.

On Monday, we looked at faith.  And on Wednesday we zoomed in for a closer glimpse at hope.  Faith is about right now.  Hope is about tomorrow.  Today, we take a closer look at God's gift to us of love and discover the reason why it's the greatest of all of them.

Faith, hope and love are often described as virtues, a series of behaviors we develop over time with practice. While that's true, it's easy then to miss what Paul has to say about them here in this verse. All three of these are precious gifts. Specifically, their God’s gifts to you and me. And while they’re connected, each one of them is unique. Last Monday we talked about faith. Today, let’s take a closer look at hope.

Perhaps you’ve been to a wedding in recent weeks or watched one take place in a movie. If so, you may have heard the familiar reading from 1 Corinthians 13:13 in which Paul says, "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." However, this passage is more than aspirational poetry. These are precious gifts from God. Join us as we take a closer look at all three - beginning with faith.

Despite forest fires often being referred to as "an act of God," statistically they're more often the result of human activity– whether through carelessness, arson or even poor forestry management. Here in Luke, our Savior describes what is clearly, and without any doubt, an act of God. In fact, it's this amazing act of God that has resulted in our rescue.

"None of them received what had been promised"? That sounds like the basis for a case in small claims court! So what does the writer to the Hebrews mean when, pointing to such Old Testament figures as Abraham and Moses, shares this passage with us as words of encouragement?

Here in Jeremiah, you can hear the understandable anger in God’s words with respect to the harmful misinformation coming from the false prophets. In fact, in loving concern he flags for us the danger it presents. This continues to be true today. In love, He redirects us to His Word and the remarkable and rock solid assurances contained therein.

When God tells you and I not to worry, you can be sure that what’s He’s telling us is much more than simply, “Don’t Panic!” He's got something much better in mind for us to be doing.

Here in Hebrews, the writer tells us that Abraham “was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.”   But what he describes isn’t a fanciful dream of something you may possibly live to see one day.  No, here’s a city that you will see.

Last April, headlines used the word “extraordinary” to describe the results of a study made of a distant planet known as K2-18b.  Using the powerful James Webb telescope, it was suggested that it shows potential signs alien life! God told Abram to look at those same stars – not in the hope of finding possible life out there, with the certain promise of new life He would bring to us right here. And it's extraordinary!

Episode art: NASA/dima_zel, CC BY 4.0

Have you ever wished that you could do something important, meaningful and lasting? As a Christian, have you ever wished you could do something great … for God?  Not as a way to earn salvation.  You and I could never do that.  That’s why God sent His Son to be our Savior and rescue us from our sins by His death for us on the cross.  No, nothing like that.  But simply as a way of living a life of gratitude, a meaningful way to show thanks for having such a gracious Redeemer? Guess what? You are!

Is Christianity “pie-in-the-sky”? Sometimes, it's trendy to hear Christianity decried as being so focused on what's above that it's less concerned with the down-to-earth issues of everyday life. It might come as a welcome surprise, then, to hear what Paul had do say about this centuries earlier here in Colossians.

Here in Ecclesiastes, Solomon sounds almost curmudgeonly. When he looks at what's often extolled as important in this life he exclaims, “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” But the reason Israel's king sounds this cautionary note is to let us know that what God brings to you is so much more.

Have you ever found yourself struggling with prayer and wondering whether God is even listening? Have you ever prayed for one thing but received something else? Have you ever prayed for one set of circumstances in your life, one outcome, but found yourself in the midst of another?  It’s right about then that you may feel like walking away and concluding that prayer is pointless. But have another look at what Jesus has revealed in the Lord's Prayer. The answer to your prayer is more remarkable that you imagine.

Should we be alarmed by what Paul warns here in Colossians? Well, consider a report released last June highlighting the global trade in unapproved and counterfeit medicines. If those results sound alarming, then you’ll understand why Paul was so concerned for the Christians in Colosse. He wanted them to be fully aware of counterfeit Christianity in their midst, offering supplement rituals and regulations which were falsely held as being necessary in addition to Christ, and the danger this presented. But it's not just a warning. Paul presents us with wonderful reassurance and even prescribes what we can do ab...

Several years ago, the most expensive piece of artwork went on auction in New York. The bidding left people gasping as the price skyrocketed and setting a record. As astonishing as that may sound, the bidding account that Moses describes here in Genesis surpasses it easily.  However, it wasn't a painting, but people, on the block.

Episode Artwork: Salvador Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci MGRANAI, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

When we hear the account that Luke describes for us, in the home of Mary and Martha, we hear that Mary listened to Jesus and Martha was distracted. Therefore it's tempting to assume that the message is for us to be less like Martha and more like Mary.  But that sounds like little more than a teacher snapping a ruler on their desk to get the attention of daydreaming pupils.  What Jesus did in love this day for Martha, and for you and me, by inviting us to hear His Word is to see the big picture and His lov...

What does Paul mean when he talks here in Colossians about that “which is lacking in regards to Christ’s afflictions?”  Is there something missing that we should know about?  Even worse, is there something that you and I need to do to 'finish the job' of salvation?  No, thankfully, not even close.  So what is he telling us here in this passage?

It may surprise us to hear that Sarah chuckled when God told her that she and Abraham would have a son. You can be sure that this laughter was tinged with joy. But it may also have been mixed with impatience. After all, this wasn’t the first time God gave them this promise. Have you ever listened to the promises of God, and His mercy, and thought to yourself, "I've heard that before"? The Good News is that His promise of mercy still holds and it's still true.

"A life worthy of the Lord." If these words here in Colossians are a goal that you must achieve, then you’ll always live a life of uncertainty and fear wondering, “Am I doing enough?” Or, in defeat, you’ll turn away from this passage completely and beat yourself up as a failure. But in this passage, Paul is actually praying that you will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of God, so that you may rejoice in the life He has given to you in His Son. Here's the life that through faith you live, and keep on...

When it comes to our hope as Christians, it’s based on the solid promises given to us in God’s Word –or as Paul puts it, “that you have already heard about in the word of truth.”  It’s not simply the vague wish for better days ahead.  It’s the unshakeable assurance that you and I have a God who loves us, who has redeemed us from our sins, who is with us right now, and who has prepared a place for us with Him in heaven.

Who was the one who first shared the Gospel with you?  Who was it who told you about God’s love for you in sending you a Savior?  Who’s that person in your life who told you about Jesus?

It must have been exciting as the disciples Jesus sent out, to go into the villages ahead of Him and proclaim the Gospel, returned from their travel.  They were more than excited, they were exuberant!  Luke tells us, “The seventy-two returned with joy.”  And they marveled to tell Jesus, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name.”  It was certainly was a great day to celebrate – but not for the reason that the disciples had given. You and I have many reasons to rejoice during life, or we may be struggling to find even one at this time, but God has gi...

As Jesus proclaimed the Gospel, Luke tells us that He “appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.” And He coupled it with an insightful observation and useful instruction. In light of the declining number of pastors, in congregations across the denominational spectrum, it's helpful and uplifting to hear what our Savior has to say about it.

Christians may not want to admit it, but it’s not always living Christ-centered life in a world that persecutes it for us.  Or, to put it another way, it’s hard to smile and show the fruits of the Spirit when you’re getting kicked in the teeth. But take a listen to the encouraging words of God that Paul shares with us when we're weary.

Luke tells us that as Jesus was passing through villages, on His way from Galilee down to Jerusalem, a young man came up to Him and said, “I will follow you wherever you go.”  Like many today, the man here in Luke may have had his own dreams for Jesus, what it would mean for him, and where it might take him. As a result, he may have been surprised, even shocked, by Jesus' response.

Have you ever noticed how folks step when they cross a footbridge? Have you ever watched how people walk on a busy street when they come to a crosswalk? Probably not. You may be thinking, “Who cares how people walk?” But when it comes to our walk together in Christ, it’s worth hearing what the apostle has to say.

It’s easy to empathize with Elijah’s frustration.  Living in this fallen world of sin there are times when you and I are left feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.  It’s difficult being ridiculed for your faith.  You may not feel like you’ve much of an impact in sharing Christ with your family and friends.  No, it’s not hard to feel like Elijah.  There are days when you may feel like throwing up your hands and crying, “I’ve had it.”       It’s then that it’s worth taking a closer look at God’s response to His prophet.

It was a pivotal moment in a young man’s life that would be celebrated by family and friends. It was the recognition that things had changed and he had a been given a whole new standing in the community. For a young boy, growing up in Rome, it was a big event when he was given a very special robe. Well, now you get an idea of picture Paul is painting for us here in Galatians. Paul wants you to realize what God has done for you and the special robe you know wear through faith. It’s nothing shor...

Here in Galatians, Paul tells us that “the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ.”  The interesting Greek word he uses to describe the role of the law is _paidagogos. _ And while it’s often translated as “schoolmaster,” “tutor” or “guardian,” another good word to describe it is “nanny.”  That’s because the role of the law is temporary.  Just like a child's nanny, it serves an important role until that role is no longer needed. Wait until you hear the wonderful reason why!

As a child, did you ever try to play a of hide-and-seek with your older siblings but found your invitation rebuffed?  They may not have wanted anything to do you.  As strange as that sounds, it’s almost the way that we hear God described here in Isaiah.  No, I don’t mean the embarrassed older brother or sister.  I’m talking about the shameless little sibling who loves them.

Today, it's sometimes referred to as "canceling." However, the practice of attempting to silence someone for saying something with which another disagrees goes back a long way. Jesus faced this as they attempted to cancel Him and silence the proclamation of the Gospel. So did the disciples. However, the Good News is that we have a Savior who has come and brought forgiveness of sins by canceling the record of debt that stood against us. Here's a message that's too good to be silenced.

(Dear friends, this devotion aired originally on June 17, 2022. It has been replayed today...

On the day of Pentecost, Peter stood to proclaim that Jesus, who was crucified, had risen and is alive.  And he told this to a crowd who didn’t realize the great hope this gives.  Having heard God’s Word often, it still hadn’t sunk in what it was telling them. Sadly, that may also be true for many today. God Himself assures you of something that's an absolute certainty.  In fact, you can live each day right now confidently –knowing and rejoicing that it’s true.

How would people describe you?  Let’s make this interesting.  If they were to select two adjectives to describe you, which words do you think them might choose? On the surface, hearing Jesus described as "the power of God and the wisdom of God" may not seem very personal.  You may be thinking, “How about words like compassionate or loving?  What about adjectives like patient or kind?” However, when it comes to our Savior, take a look at how He has revealed His power and wisdom.  It tells you a lot about his love and compassion for you, His patience and...

It’s been said, God reversed the action He took at Babel, back in Genesis, when He confused the languages of the people.  But He did a lot more than that.  And here’s what makes what God did so remarkable! In fact, it continues to be a miracle this day.

“Let’s agree to disagree.”  Have you ever heard or shared that phrase?  On the surface, it sounds useful.  When two people have differing opinions on a topic, it’s a way of ending an argument while recognizing that nothing is going to change the other person’s mind.  And in many cases, in our increasingly polarizing culture, it seems best.  However, when it comes to our unity in Christ, it’s neither helpful nor true. But wait until you hear of God's way. It's amazing!

You may find yourself shaking your head as you hear this account recorded in Genesis.  The Tower of Babel is one of those episodes in the history of God’s people that can’t help make you stop and shake your head.  However, in this case, it’s not a matter of shoddy workmanship.  It’s was the plan behind the project that presented the dilemma.

Jesus prays for you. Does that surprise you?  After all, we usually think of prayer as something we do.  Prayer is that marvelous gift that God has given to us by which we can talk to Him.  We speak these prayers out loud together at church but more often at home, when we’re by ourselves, and throughout the day.  But it’s worth knowing that you’re not the only one praying.

When it came time to fill the position of apostle, which was vacated with the death of Judas, it wasn’t the kind of job Peter and the others could post online and then interview suitable candidates. When it came to identifying the one who would be eligible to fill this spot there was a specific set of qualifications. However, there was one criteria that topped the list. You'll want to hear which one it was and why.

Have you ever wondered, “How soon is soon?”  Sometimes it feels as if soon is not soon enough. However, when Jesus says, “I am coming soon,” here’s a promise that is filled with hope.

It sounds ominous to hear our Savior telling the disciples to make no mistake about it, “In this world you will have trouble.” There are going to be times in our lives when it’s going to feel like the wheels fell off. However, Jesus does’t leave us to rely on ourselves or say, “Good luck.”  Instead, He assures us, “But take heart!  I have overcome the world.”

What will I see in heaven? If you notice, much of what God shares with us in His Word about this topic, is actually list of things that you won’t see in heaven.  And there’s a good reason for this.  There are some things that won’t be needed.  And there are other things that won’t be missed.  So take a brief a look at some of those things that you won’t see in heaven.

When it comes to sharing the faith, as Paul found himself doing this day in Acts, we may find ourselves underestimating what it takes to open hearts to receive God’s message of salvation.  In fact, we may think it’s no big deal.  But actually, it is a very big deal.  It’s something that should leave us shaking our heads in amazement, and filled with gratitude to God, every time it happens.

“Come again?”  There’s a phrase that’s usually accompanied by a look of bewilderment.  It’s slang.  It’s a way of saying “I’m sorry, but could you repeat what you just said.”  Either they didn’t hear correctly or what they heard doesn’t seem to make any sense.” It's a phrase the disciples could have used on one occasion ... but for two very distinct reasons. And when you and I are baffled about things going on our lives, it's one we can say with hope and confidence.