Pastor's Blog (Page 2)
What on earth were you thinking, Nephew? What could possibly have possessed you to move there? As the two “men” left and headed toward Sodom—on mission to investigate the outcry of her wickedness—Abraham knew his nephew was in an exceedingly grave predicament. Which is why he proceeded to barter with the Lord: “Will You stay Your hand if You find 50, no, 40-30-20, even 10…
This came about from the Lord, and it is marvelous in our eyes. (Matt 21:42d) What, exactly, is the this that the Lord brought about and that is marvelous in our eyes? The earlier part of verse 42 tells us: The stone which the builders rejected, this became the chief corner stone. It’s a prophecy from Psalm 118:22-23 that the Jewish leaders (the builders)…
Man of Sorrows
On Wednesday when I wrote Jesse that Henry’s departure seemed near he replied, “More sorrow at this point seems almost too much. Maybe it is too much. I’m casting this on the Man of Sorrows.” Yes, of course! The Man of Sorrows! He’s well acquainted with our griefs. See Him weeping at Lazarus’ grave (Jn 11:35). See Him moved with compassion for the widow whose only son had…
The Chopping Block
“If your eye makes you stumble, tear it out… if your hand makes you stumble, cut it off…” said Jesus. On two different occasions. About two different matters. (Mt 5:28-30; 18:8-9) I’ve had personal experience with a debilitating, defeating, besetting sin. For the life of me I could not find lasting victory. I would turn over a new leaf. Make promises. Covenants. Vows… you…
Lord, have mercy.
“Lord, have mercy on my son,” said the father, who had fallen on his knees before Jesus.1 “Lord, have mercy…” said the mother. And two blind men. And the lepers. And two more blind men. There are five instances in the gospels where people realized their staggering, insurmountable need—their utter helplessness—and in sheer desperation they cried out to Jesus for…
Lord, he whom You love is sick.* These words were the first conscious thought I had this morning. I think the Holy Spirit brought them to mind. I sensed He was inviting me to use these words in prayer for a friend of mine who is sick. But I hesitated. Was praying that prayer for my friend a legitimate use of Scripture? Did Lazarus’ situation apply? I wondered…