Jesus’ call to self-denial isn’t actually about the self at all. It’s about him, and the confession that he is your everything.
There comes a turning point when discontent and dissatisfaction awaken desire and only the real thing will do.
Love your enemy is not hyperbole or poetry or a clever figure of speech. It is a defining commandment of this covenant community of Jesus.
In a profound move of tender mercy, Jesus pulls us into this divine intimacy of Father and child. Not only is God his Father, but our Father.
Our entrance into the kingdom is not dependent on how well we embody the teachings of Jesus. It is dependent on Jesus himself.
The world is drawn to his light shining through us. But it is pointing them beyond us and illuminating the way to him.
Jesus’ vision for us is not a comfortably full belly, but a primal craving and hunger for what is needed most, what will fill to overflowing.
The Spirit will pull us from our beds, throw back the comforters, disturb our peace, and interrupt our slumber. He will meet us in unrest.
This is the time for the Church to proclaim the anthem of Advent, the disruptive genius of God With Us.
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter. Here is a free sermon outline for the first Sunday of Lent.
This is the moment of Emmanuel—God with us. When the One who fills up every corner of existence is now cradled in a manger.
On those living in the valley of the shadows, the Light has dawned. After the long night of waiting, the Morning Himself has arrived at last. And Eve’s weeping gives way to Mary’s song.
