Most of us can be kind to the people closest to us—at least most of the time. But in the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus challenges us to an even greater level of kindness—Kingdom kindness—which demands that we are kind even to our enemies.
Every relationship is built on commitment, but not commitment in general. There are four specific commitments every relationship needs, and you can learn to make those commitments and have better relationships.
The suffering of innocent people can be profoundly troubling, and it can be a significant source of doubt. Often, well-meaning people offer explanations for suffering that aren’t actually helpful and are sometimes even harmful. But God does not want anyone to suffer. While we will face suffering in this world, we can trust that God will always be with us in the midst of it.
We have heard the God answers prayer, but most of us have also felt the pain of praying for something that didn’t happen, and it can lead us to question…
Becoming like Jesus isn’t something just for exceptionally religious people; it’s for everyone! But it doesn’t just happen. It takes a dependable, intentional process to be formed into a person who is more and more like Jesus.
When we're struggling, hope can seem distant and even unattainable. The hope that Jesus brings, though, comes into the darkness with us and shines a light.
When Jesus describes wars, suffering, and starts falling from the sky, it can be confusing and even scary. But when he teaches about these things, he’s actually preparing the disciples for the cross and resurrection. As we read those words today, they help us to bear witness to the cross and live the resurrection in our daily lives.
Jesus’ life is good news for the world, and in the Gospel of Mark, we learn what that good news means for our everyday lives. In this series, we’ll explore how we can experience his good news for ourselves and be part of his mission to share it with the world.
In our culture love is most often defined as a feeling. But that’s not love according to the Bible. Love is something else completely—a willing choice to put the good of the other before our own. When we make that choice, we can form and strengthen relationships that can endure even the greatest challenges.
God’s love and forgiveness are for everyone, but young people will only know that if we commit ourselves to loving, supporting, and encouraging them on their life’s journey.