-
Knowing and Doing Are Two Different Things
There are different definitions of “sin” throughout Scripture, but James weighs in on this one: 17 It is a sin when someone knows the right thing to do and doesn’t do it. (James 4:17, CEB) We can know all day long what the right thing to do is… and just not do it. We can see shades of racism in…
-
Willing to Yield
My wish for the political season as it kicks off: Everyone running for office needs to read the Book of James. Knowing that will not happen, I am still struck by the words compared to the political arena. 17 What of the wisdom from above? First, it is pure, and then peaceful, gentle, obedient, filled with mercy and good actions,…
-
Giving Without a Second Thought
A refreshing look at James 1:5 from the Common English Bible. First, the NIV 2011: 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Common English Bible: 5 But anyone who needs wisdom should ask God, whose very nature is to give to…
-
The Advantage of Adversity
The old saying goes, “Live and learn.” I have found that isn’t necessarily true. There was a friend in college who just didn’t really understand the purpose of the speed limit. Not understanding the speed limit in Wisconsin in those days was costly. He was winging his way through Wisconsin one year with some friends he was dropping off in…
-
The Hope That is Christ
“Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.” (Luke 2:14, CEB) Christ is born! He came to bring peace. HIS life will make the difference. Life in Christ will make the difference. One of the things I reflected on in my message on Christmas Eve was the darkness in the world. There…
-
Behold! The Baby Wrapped in a Snuggie!
This will teach me to read more slowly! As I was reading the Luke 2 account in my Common English Bible I had to do a double take in v. 12. I honestly thought it read: “you will find a newborn baby wrapped in a snuggie…” Upon further review: 12 This is a sign for you: you will find a…
-
The Peek Around the Corner
I love the story of Simeon. He was one who had anticipated. He was waiting. He had heard from God and knew each day was a gift. This could be the day he would finally see Messiah! Imagine living on that day. He wakes up, makes his way to the Temple, and finally, on that day, he lays eyes on…
-
Declaring the Beauty of the Lord
I am a confessing news junkie. It’s genetic. My father named his cocker spaniel FDR. Not after the president. After Frank D. Reynolds, the ABC News anchor. I’m not kidding. When I am in the car I listen to news. Not music. Not sports talk. News. It’s been a tough cycle. It was talk radio for a long time. Then,…
-
Common English Bible Sales
I am part of the Common English Bible Advent Blog Tour and have spent the last month reflecting on Advent using the Common English Bible. This report is showing the Common English Bible is off to a strong start in sales. For all the great discussion we’ve been having on what we like and don’t like about the CEB, it…
-
Don’t Let God Rest!
Advent is about God coming down to us. It is about his pursuit of us. Advent is also about the expectation and hope of the return of Christ. We long for his appearing again. As God has pursued us we have this invitation to pursue him. We have the invitation of prayer. 6 Upon your walls, Jerusalem, I have appointed…
Category: Translations
