HOPE

Hang Onto Possible Endings

Childlike Faith vs. Childish Faith

Jesus said if we don't receive the kingdom of God like a little child, we will never enter it. What exactly is a child-like view of God's kingdom? While I am neither a theologian nor scholar, I have worked with children for over 35 years. For what it's worth, here's my observation of child-like vs. childish faith in God and His kingdom. Children easily believe and trust those who love them. When I tell them nothing is impossible for God, they believe it. This truth finds its way to their ... continue reading...

Socially Distanced from God?

In these days of social distancing, ever feel distanced from God? Finding it hard to engage in worship while watching on the screen? Are you discouraged by the pandemic, disillusioned by politics, and despairing over separation of loved ones? Feeling disconnected because fellowship with believers has been slim to none? Me too. The lepers in Luke 17 understood completely. Forced to live in isolation, socially distanced from healthy family and friends, leper colonies provided their only ... continue reading...

For the Love of Money

Luke chapter 16 opens with a confusing parable about an unwise steward being called into account. Mismanaging his master's resources cost him his position. Shrewdly, he reduces the debts of creditors attempting to be welcomed in their homes when he is fired. What confuses me is why Jesus seems to commend the dishonest steward. Does it confuse you as well? I'll leave the interpretation of the parable to pastors and scholars. Click here for John Piper's interpretation and explanation. I just ... continue reading...

Party in Heaven

I love the visual of a celebration in heaven over every sinner who enters, don't you? Who doesn't love a good party? As our Good Shepherd, God's love and compassion propels Him to seek and save the one who strays. He doesn't wait for us to look for and follow Him. He knows we're like sheep going our own way. In fact Jesus told his disciples in John 15:16: "You did not choose Me but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you ... continue reading...

Dinner Parties and Discipleship

Luke chapter fourteen is full of parables about parties, performance, and perfection. Inviting everyone and anyone to dinner and discipleship cost Jesus any standing in the formal ranks of rabbis of His day. Lucky for us, He didn't care. Seeking to discredit the ministry of Jesus, he is once again invited to a dinner party at the home of a prominent Pharisee. Surrounded by men who should have rejoiced rather than reject the healing of a man suffering from dropsy, (swelling in his limbs), ... continue reading...