Roots are the underground part of a seed plant body and are the organs of consumption, aeration, and food storage. They also act as a structural anchorage and support the plant. The spiritual definition of roots is similar: structures that support one’s spiritual outlook on life. The roots nourish the rest of a person’s life… Read More
When you pray, say … (4)
I used to use the word TEMPTATION in context with things I considered bad, such as murder, stealing, pornography, and mayhem. It belongs there, but it can also be as subtle as over-booking myself so I don’t have time for God or my family, wanting to always be the center of attention, and choosing easy… Read More
When you pray, say … (3)
Forgiveness is not optional. It is a command. Jesus taught his followers (and us) how to pray. Part of the prayer is: “forgive us our debts as we have forgiven our debtors.” And just in case the disciples didn’t catch the forgiveness part, he reiterated and explained in more fully. “For if you forgive men… Read More
Colossians 4:5-6 Living in community
Act toward others as you would have them act toward you. Love you neighbor as yourself. Colossians 4:5-6 (New Living Translation) Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6… Read More
Colossians 4:3-4 We pray. God responds.
If you are a Christian, your actions and your words should be reflections of God’s words that light up your heart. That is every Christian’s calling. There are those who are called to do this as their vocation–devote their lives to spreading God’s Good News. And they need our prayers. Our prayers of thanks, intercession,… Read More
Colossians 4:2 Pray all day
What does prayer look like? There is not just one way to pray, but as you live, you pray. Like Tim Tebow: down on one knee with head bowed. In a closet, alone with God. In a group without saying a word. Lying prone. Driving your car with your eyes wide open. Crying. Laughing. Angry.… Read More
Colossians 3:18-19 Go all out in love
Submission is not something we in America do well. I can’t speak for those in other countries, because I don’t have enough experience in and of your cultures. But individual rights and privileges–something I believe in and support–can lead us to think only of ourselves and what we deserve and have rights to. Individualistic thinking–what’s… Read More
