Ephesians 2:14-18 A fresh start

Equal access. One family. No more insiders and outsiders. Only through our Savior Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit in us. One world-wide community. Ephesians 2:14-18(New Living Translation) For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross,… Read More

God breathes

God breathes our spirit into us, and our spirit is eternal. The only question is where will it spend eternity? As our spirit encounters life, we form a soul—character, personality, emotions, will, mind, and so on. These structures we erect of heart and mind, character and personality, are what we call the soul. In some… Read More

Colossians 1:11-12 God’s strength for the long haul

Agony. Death. Pain. Fear. Sorrow. We will experience these things and more as we go through life. Do I have to just grit my teeth and endure? In the middle of the deepest and darkest valleys, God will help me to move beyond my wailing question, “Why me?” I look to see God in the… Read More

Sometimes worship resembles a pep rally

What does praise look like? I think it has many different faces, sounds, moods. No matter what style, praise always comes first. Praising first in any situation helps us to focus on the one who is in charge, who has the strength to overcome, and who loves us and shares his strength with us. Many times… Read More

Psalm 1:3 Fruit and Flowers

My roots are firmly planted in you, bringing me the nourishment of your words, your love, your peace, your shelter and your strength. You water me with the flow of your Holy Spirit. May my fruit and blossoms benefit everyone I meet.       Psalm 1:1-2 (The Message) You’re a tree replanted in Eden, bearing… Read More

Philippians 4:21-23 Receive and experience amazing grace

I can hold onto something that will never be taken away–God’s amazing grace. Therein lies my contentment and joy.     Philippians 4:21-23 (The Message) Give our regards to every follower of Jesus you meet. Our friends here say hello. All the Christians here, especially the believers who work in the palace of Caesar, want to… Read More

Philippians 4:11-14 Gradual journey to joy

Is my joy growing? The answer to that question indicates the condition of my heart.   Philippians 4:11-14 (The Message) Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little.… Read More