Mary, Martha, and Lazarus had s a warm and uniquely intimate relationship with Jesus. So when Lazarus became fatally ill, his sisters, knowing how much Jesus’ loved them, banked their appeal for his help on his love. Read their story in John 11:1-43. Mary and Martha knew Jesus as a healer, teacher, Messiah, and close friend—but living… Read More
just say “no!”
Just say NO Animals follow their instincts—they can’t say no. But if you’re human, you have the ability to choose either “yes” or “no.” That ability gives you access to freedom. Distractions, blind alleys, seductive invitations, over-extending purchases, revenge…no matter what is on your list of enticements, you have the God-given ability to just say… Read More
Jesus’ life of scandal
something that is shocking, upsetting, or unacceptable Jesus began his life with scandal—a young girl impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Who’s going to ever believe that crazy story? Not Joseph, the man she was betrothed to. Not her parents. Not her friends. Not the village elders. Or the gossips or… Read More
Gentle correction
Godly discipline allows children to please parents. It fits the punishment to the crime. Children come to understand cause and effect, sowing and reaping. Big crime gets a big punishment; little crime receives a little punishment. With abuse, punishment is arbitrary and often unfair, but Godly discipline distinguishes between a mistake and a deliberate sin. Or… Read More
How do you use the word “Jesus”?
What is the word “Jesus” to you? When do you use it? How do you use it? Is it an exclamation: of alarm, of fear, of surprise, of frustration … ? I read this daily devotional below this morning, and I am going to be very specific in my use of the word Jesus today, this… Read More
Sow forgiveness…reap forgiveness
Jesus is God, and he became who we are—he became our sin. Because he was both God and man he could accomplish the task that God the Father gave him of being the perfect lamb that was sacrificed to take away the sins of the world. Jesus reached across time and space and identified with… Read More
Forgiving is not optional
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians… Read More
Kathleen S Evenhouse 