God’s presence
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Seeing Color in a Black and White World
We live in a dualistic society that assumes many things about an individual based on how one lives his/her life, who they vote for, and where they live. As a Christian, failing to look beyond the surface, hinders many… Continue reading
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We Embrace Joy
When we move from darkness into the light, there is a supposition that everything reverts to a time when life proceeded in a stress-free environment. I often find myself shocked when my entry into the light is quite different… Continue reading
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One Word Makes a Big Difference
As I got ready to go to church this morning, I heard a statement that bothered me. While not talking about the birth of Christ, someone said, “If you come down…” My first reaction was one of anger. “What… Continue reading
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What Do We Mean by Darkness?
Sometimes I am guilty of using “churchy” words without explaining myself. There are phrases that we throw around without knowing the full extent of their meaning. What we do is set up boundaries for those who use familiar language… Continue reading
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A Fantasia on Christmas Carols
One of my favorite seasonal musical selections is “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” by the great English composer Ralph Vaughn Williams. The piece starts very somberly with a single cello and a baritone voice who musically narrates through the darkness.… Continue reading
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What Have I Surrendered?
Today I find myself in the precarious position of wanting to stop and take a moral inventory of myself. The question that drives my curiosity is, “What have I surrendered to move from darkness into the light?” As I… Continue reading
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We Come Into the Light, Right Now
There are some watered-down theological assumptions out in the world that our real reward is after death. The immediacy of a life filled with God’s love is not as crucial in the here and now. After all, why strive… Continue reading
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Saved By Grace; Follow By Choice
In many Christian circles, the debate about conversion centers around the moment of belief and our actions, and the holy mystery surrounding us. While I know that we have nothing to do with the gift, we have agency in… Continue reading
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The Great Light May Not Be What We Expect
I cannot help but be intrigued by the statement from the prophet Isaiah, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Is. 9:2a CEB). Notice, the passage never describes what the “great light” looks like. For all… Continue reading
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Who is Jesus to Me?
Such an easy question; Who is Jesus to Me? I can easily say friend, redeemer, comforter, philosopher, etc. All these titles are accurate, but I think there is more to the story. In prayer, I hear the Savior inviting… Continue reading