Pastor’s Blog
A couple of years ago I was frustrated by a small tree that was leaning out over part of our yard. Some of its branches were nearly touching the ground. Besides being an eyesore, it made walking on and mowing that part of the yard unpleasant and difficult. The simplest thing would have been to take it down. But I like trees, so cutting them down is a last resort. I…
Peace
Let not your heart be troubled: Needful assurances on the eve of a contentious and unsettling election. So then, let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts (Col 3:15).
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…