• Doing Spiritual Work Brings Spiritual Joy

         As I sweep my spiritual floor clean, I notice something that gets my attention. Laying in a corner of my soul is a list of those who have hurt me. I want to go over and sweep with everything… Continue reading

  • How Long Must We Wait?

         During this season of Advent, I cannot help but wonder how long God expects us to wait for His presence. The people of Israel lived in a ridiculously lengthy period of Advent, as they waited for hundreds of years… Continue reading

  • Are We Saved by Grace or Works?

         For many years, the idea of cleaning the house to prepare for the arrival of the Christ child has confused me. In short, must we “do” certain things before Jesus enters our hearts? The more profound question is, “Must… Continue reading

  • And This Shall Be a Sign unto You

         We are born to look for signs. Our culture is full of signals to indicate which way to turn, what career to follow, and even what to buy a significant other. One cannot walk ten steps without encountering different… Continue reading

  • The Movement of the World Stopped

         My favorite place to go shopping during the build-up to Christmas is Old Town, located in Albuquerque, NM. All the shops are free-standing and sitting in the beautiful square. I never feel rushed or pushed against the sea of… Continue reading

  • The Power of Our Transformation – Luke 21:25-28

         When one looks at the incredible signs in Luke’s passage, “from the heights to the sea, from the planets to the shaking earth,” the author reminds us to “look up” because something incredible is about to happen. We will… Continue reading

  • From Chaos to Creation

    “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will certainly not pass away” (Lk. 21:33, CEB)      The Gospel of Luke’s text sits at the heart of the creation story. The earth and heaven may go, but God’s majesty,… Continue reading

  • Finding Rest in a Weary World

    Within the last two months, I have traveled twice to Atlanta, once to Austin, once to Dallas, once to the beautiful Sacramento Mountains, and once to New Orleans, LA. Each trip was for a distinct purpose. My travels included work… Continue reading

  • The Christian Life Is Not All Happy, Happy, Feel Good Stuff!

    When I was young, I heard a song that indicated that the Christian life provided a straightforward pathway. All one had to do was profess faith in Jesus, and suddenly one lived stress-free and happy all the time. I grew… Continue reading

  • John’s Call to a Changed Life

    “Change your hearts and Lives! Here comes the kingdom of heaven!” (Matt. 3:2 CEB).      We see that John’s version of baptism (small “b” because it is not a sacrament) appears different than what Christianity came to know. John called… Continue reading