The Visited Planet
Today as we embark on a New Year, just a week after celebrating Christmas, I believe it’s beneficial to once again ponder the significance of the birth of Jesus over 2,000 years ago. Sadly the Christmas season has become so commercialized that it’s easy to be distracted and fail to be moved with awe and wonder at the birth we claim to celebrate. This was the certainly the case with Charlie Brown who, depressed by the commercialization of Christmas, cries out, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?” . . .
Between Faith and Doubt
Perhaps the most complete definition of faith in Scripture is stated in Hebrews 11:1; “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This definition of faith contains two aspects: intellectual assent and trust. Intellectual assent is believing something to be true. Trust is actually relying on the fact that the something is true . . .
Where Is God When It Hurts?
We learn very early in this life that pain and suffering are part and parcel of our experience here on earth. We can all name friends and family who are currently struggling through ill health, grief, addiction, depression, or death of a loved one. Perhaps some of us are struggling as well. What does God think about our suffering? Where is God when life hurts? . . .
Showdown in the Desert
In 2002 well known Christian author, Philip Yancey, published a book titled “The Jesus I Never Knew”. He explains the reason he wrote this book as follows:
“I am not writing a book about Jesus because he is a great man who changed history. I am drawn to Jesus, irresistibly, because he positioned himself as the dividing point of life — my life. According to Jesus, what I think about him and how I respond will determine my destiny for all eternity.” . . .