Jesus explains the parable’s meaning. Notice that in these verses Jesus talks to the disciples privately. Jesus is God incarnate, omnipotent, and eternal. It must surely have occurred to him that...

The author Rob Bell reminds us that Bible stories aren’t just about characters from history. Bible stories are our stories. In some way, God is talking to you, to me, to...

This passage begins with some pretty good news, doesn’t it? Verses 1 and 2 promise that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. The law of the...

The majesty of creation is central. The heart of the image in this section is life, speci cally, life springing joyfully from water—rain and snow from above. This very rain and...

Today’s verses talk about commitment— erce, unshakable, and, yes, even loving commitment in the face of the harshest adversity. The psalmist ercely declares his strong commitment. More, the psalmist speaks out...

The story of Jacob and Esau is a story of violence that begins before birth. It’s a story of trickery, of deceit. There’s even an element of parental strife, as father,...

Throughout his public ministry, Jesus addresses people who are overworked or carrying heavy loads due to political and religious oppression. He offers them an alternate way: “Come to me, all you...

Ahighlight of my recent pilgrimage to Israel came in observ- ing an aged rabbi walking toward the Western Wall. He did not walk alone. Five young men followed close behind. They...

Scarcely a day goes by without a struggle between what I want to do and what I nally end up doing. I face an ongoing battle with my sinful nature. God’s...

My colleagues and I get together once a week for coffee at a local bistro. We share stories and pastoral concerns. After many years of ministry together, we were surprised to...