So the figures in the book of Judges have been blurred out of focus by tradition, VBS programs, and perhaps also our inability to see biblical characters as real people. In short, the main characters
I suppose Christian courage has always looked somewhat peculiar. The examplars of our faith are the martyrs. Our heroes are great on their knees, not the battlefield. Our courage resides in the smile of a seasoned saint, in the prayers for patience of a struggling father, in the compassionate confidence of a young pastor. It’s courage to confess and courage to forgive. It’s courage to be disciplined, to be molded, to follow. It’s courage to kneel, pray, receive, and welcome.
Every year we have a retreat to help bridge the chasm in between the end of eighth grade and the beginning of ninth. We have found over the past several years, those who go on the Freshman Retreat tend to stay instead of disappear. Transitions are worth doing well because it matters that much.
My “New Year” sermon series play off themes of fresh starts, new beginnings, or a plan to re-focus on what’s most important. This is a time to build momentum in the life of the church as we seek to spread the influence of the Kingdom of God in our communities.
How should Christians respond to the unethical killing of Cecil the lion, especially in the midst of the evil controversy surrounding Planned Parenthood? In today’s piece, John Murdock challenges us to think how we can most effectively win over animal activists to a fuller pro-life position.
