We live in a world of anxiety and despair. How do we become resilient and holy (set apart) in a throw-away world of mass production? In a performance-driven world of grades and evaluations, it is possible to leave the chaos and burnout of a performance-based life and embrace the peace and freedom of a grace-based life.
We know that forgiveness is important, but it’s also really hard. There are many reasons we don’t want to forgive others, but forgiving others doesn’t just help them; it helps us, too. The words “I forgive you” can set us free.
The grave is empty. Love has won. Christ is risen! Jesus’ resurrection changes everything, and it can change everything for you.
What Jesus says and does in the final week of his life tell us what he values most. And his words and actions toward those he encounters consistently show us that when everyone around you says, “You’re out,” God says, “You’re in!”
After healing and teaching in Galilee, Jesus began his journey toward Jerusalem and the cross, but his journey wasn't just about the destination. It was about compassion for the people he met along the way.
Jesus came to help and save the outsiders, outcasts, and outlaws. During the season of Lent, we’ll be reading the Gospel of Luke together, and we’ll see that whether you’ve been poor, rich, rejected, dejected, sick or humiliated, God wants to use you to lift up the lowly.
Each of us has to deal with difficult people, but they don't have to wreak havoc in our lives. And when we follow Jesus' teaching and example for dealing with difficult people, it can transform the world.
Good relationships keep us healthier and happier. One of the best investments we can make is growing in our relationships, and this is certainly true for parents. Parenting is a lifetime job that doesn’t end when children are grown, and the best gift we can give to our children is our presence.
Humility is not natural to anyone, but it is the lifestyle Jesus models for us. And when we learn to be humble, not only does it open us up to the possibility of wisdom, it also makes others feel encouraged, accepted, and valued in our presence.
Kindness is not a weakness. In fact, it can actually lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and strengthen immune systems. We are made for loving kindness, and when we choose to be kind, we bless others and create a kinder world.
