Water Into Wine Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” Then he told them, “Now draw some out.” The master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He called the bridegroom aside and said, “You have saved the best till now.” — John 2:7-10 It’s a simple…
Who is God?
WELCOME A little girl in kindergarten was drawing a picture when her teacher walked up to her desk to take a look. She asked the child, “What are you drawing?” The bright-eyed girl quickly responded, “God.” The teacher smiled and then said, “Well, honey, no one actually knows what God looks like.” The child looked…
Joy: True Happiness
I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. — John 15:11 Remember Eeyore and Tigger in the Winnie-the Pooh-books? For Eeyore, no matter what amazing circumstance came his way, doom and gloom remained the focus. For Tigger, bouncing through life without a care…
Sacrificial Love
What does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul? — Deuteronomy 10:12 Spoiler alert! If you haven’t read O. Henry’s short story “The Gift…
The Hope of Jesus
Hope We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. — Hebrews 6:19–20 The first-century symbol of Christianity was an anchor, not a cross. Pictured on the epitaphs of first-, second-, and third-century believers,…
Having an Exit Strategy
My first experience with water skiing came at the age of twenty-four. I was quietly anxious about the adventure. All of my focus was on getting up on those skis. The first attempt was over before it began. One tug from the motorboat, and the rope left my hands and took off without me. On…
Worship & Prayer
Worship The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” – Acts 16:29-31 What a random question for a jailer to ask two prisoners.…
Letter Writing and Paul’s Final Days
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. — Romans 8:28 Does anyone write letters anymore? I’m not talking about business memos or quick notes on Post-its, but personal, handwritten letters to someone you care about. In this…
Believe: Identity and Joy
Identity in Christ If we are children, then we are heirs — heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. — Romans 8:17 The Waltons… The Du Ponts… These are some of the wealthiest families in the world, and…
God Has Heard My Prayer
Let My Words Be Few God is in Heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few. — Ecclesiastes 5:2 Ever get so carried away talking to God that you realize you didn’t spend any time listening to Him? Yes, your heavenly Father wants to hear from you. He desires you to…