-
The power of self-giving love
45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45, NIV) Self-giving love is the key. This is the power set loose on the world. This is the heart of the revolution launched on Good Friday. (NT Wright, “The Day the Revolution Began”)
-
Touching the leper
We have struggles with how to “be the church” in western Christianity. Do we invite people to come in? Do we just plunge ourselves “out there”? How much do we get “involved” in other peoples’ lives?
-
Paying attention to the margins
Who does God receive? The ones without status. The ones society doesn’t recognize. Then they also brought infants to Him that He might touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom…
-
My hardest struggle
Over the years I have watched the Lord lead me to so many victories. I have been amazed at the process. This is truly a “long obedience in the same direction,” as Eugene Peterson would put it. Yet, I keep struggling with one basic thing.
-
When we tire of prayer
“You unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you and put up with you? Bring your son here.” (Luke 9:41, NIV)
-
Jesus will invade your “safe place”
If you think you don’t like “the Church” because of Christians… just wait until you actually meet Jesus.
-
Is Jesus cleaning house?
What if Jesus is cleaning house? His CHURCH… not America?
-
The true power of the gospel
The power of the gospel lies not in the offer of a new spirituality or religious experience, not in the threat of hellfire (certainly not in the threat of being “left behind”), which can be removed if only the hearer checks this box, says this prayer, raises a hand, or whatever, but in the powerful announcement that God is God,…
-
Jesus’ sermon notes
I read passages like this: The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. (Mark 1:22) and I think, “I sure wish I had those notes! WHAT did he say to get people to respond in this manner?”
-
Are we MOVED?
40 A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.”41 Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” (Mark 1:40-41) Indignant. Other translations choose “moved with compassion.” Early in Mark’s gospel we see the action of Jesus and…
Tag: Gospel
