The Dichotomy of Christmas

“The sheepherders returned and let loose, glorifying and praising God for everything they had heard and seen.” (Luke 2:20 MSG) “When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” (Matthew 2:10 MSG) “Herod, when he realized that the scholars had tricked him, flew into a rage.…

With Joy

“Pay close attention now: I’m creating a new heavens and a new earth. All the earlier troubles, chaos and pain are things fo the past, to be forgotten. Look ahead with joy.” (Isaiah 65:17-18 MSG) What a verse to read on the fifth anniversary of…

Glad in God

“I’m glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess… Actually I don’t need anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content in my circumstances. I’m happy with little as with much, with much as will little. I’ve found the recipe for…

As If This Is So

“You did it. You changed wild lament into hiring dance; You ripped off my black mourning band and decked me with wild flowers. I’m about to burst with song; I can’t thank You enough.” (Psalm 30:11-12 MSG) What a hope-filled song! We aren’t good about…

A Force-less Life

“I have told you these things for a purpose…” (John 15:11 MSG) Wait, what things? John 15:1-10 can be condensed to a list. Jesus the Vine.His Father is the Vinedresser.Non fruit-bearing branches are removed entirely.Fruit-bearing branches are pruned to bear even more fruit.Christ longs for…