Standing at My Altar
While standing at my altar, I was thinking how easy it is to forget…
I have stewed over the fact that my life and body have been sacrificed too many times, even for good things. For instance, I literally gave up space inside my body three times to allow three other little bodies to grow there. On the “not so good” side, I had to sacrifice my breast to conquer cancer. I sacrificed my thyroid to conquer the ravages of Graves’ disease. . . .
My Prayer for You + Week In-Review
On this rainy Friday afternoon, I’m impressed with the need to pray for you, both individually and collectively. Below is my prayer for you, as well as three “Week In-Review” news items that I believe will interest you and benefit your walk with Jesus Christ.
Shun the Violence
My wife and I are in deep sadness over the death of 17 students and teachers in Parkland, Florida at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
We’re also grieved by the fact that the gunman, Nikolas Cruz, had a long history of mental illness and had been diagnosed with autism. Reports show he regularly faced rejection from classmates and neighbors.
Every part of this story is incredibly sad and heart-wrenching.
But while many will weigh-in to talk about political, legal, and psychological factors, I want to go back to a foundational issue, which is actually theological.
Shifting Seasons
Yesterday afternoon, Hudson squinted up into the sky and proclaimed to our little daughter, “Hey Everlynn! Winter is over! It’s warm and I can see the sun!”
“Not quite,” I remarked, much to Hudson’s chagrin. But winter is definitely receding. Within several weeks we may see crocuses begin to emerge from the frosty ground with their cheerful blossoms. A warm breeze will melt away the icy wind. Cool April showers will bring forth life hidden dormant within. . . .
Prayer isn’t a Post-it Note
The most vital work is not first serving, teaching, preaching, exhorting, evangelizing, giving, or even Bible reading (all good things) – but prayer! Prayer must preface, saturate, and finish all we do as Christians. Prayer isn’t merely the bookends or a magnet on the fridge of the Christian life….
Dear Mayfair Bible Church…
On December 3rd, I accepted the call to serve as Lead Pastor for Mayfair Bible Church of Flushing, Michigan. Our hearts are overwhelmed with praise to God. Below is a short video we produced and letter I’ve written to the wonderful flock at Mayfair…