Advent 2025, Week 2: Isaiah 9, Part 3 This second week of Advent 2025, we’re studying Isaiah 9. In the previous two posts here and here, we’ve learned that the prophecy sees a light breaking into the darkness of war-torn northern Israel. A new hope of peace has dawned. No surprise, then, how the prophecyContinue reading “Bringing joy to the oppressed”
Tag Archives: freedom
A fitting inscription on the Liberty Bell, but from a “strange” book of the Bible – Jubilee, Part 1
Have you ever visited the Liberty Bell? I have visited the Liberty Bell at least a couple times, but I could not have told you until this week that the bell has an inscription. The thing that I remember the most about the bell is that it was cast by bell makers named Pass andContinue reading “A fitting inscription on the Liberty Bell, but from a “strange” book of the Bible – Jubilee, Part 1″
The conflicted history of American freedom – Jubilee, Preview
What one word comes to mind when you think of the United States of America? As I consider the past 250+ years since our nation’s founding, I propose that the one word that most defines our national project is “freedom.” Consider this famous line from one of our nation’s most important founding documents, the DeclarationContinue reading “The conflicted history of American freedom – Jubilee, Preview”
The importance of free will – Jesus’ love and peace, Part 1
In the first century when Jesus was alive, the land of Israel was controlled by the Roman Empire. Rome was the superpower of the day, and they had an ideology called the Pax Romana. Roman Peace. They wanted peace in their empire. And largely they achieved peace. Do you know how the Romans achieved peace? Continue reading “The importance of free will – Jesus’ love and peace, Part 1”
What does it mean to be “undignified” in worship? – 2 Samuel 6, Bonus Post
In 2 Samuel 6, David’s wife, Michal, confronts him, accusing him of “undignified” worship. David responds saying, “I will be even more undignified than this.” What is “undignified” worship? My opinion is that David is not suggesting that wild dancing is the only way to worship God when a group of Christians comes together forContinue reading “What does it mean to be “undignified” in worship? – 2 Samuel 6, Bonus Post”
What speaking life to one another is not, and what it is – Part 3
This week I welcome guest blogger, Kirk Marks. Kirk is a retired pastor, having served 30+ years in both local churches with his wife, Debbie, and in denominational administration. He has also taught theology and led a pastoral assessment center for many years. He and Debbie, along with their two daughters and son-in-law are membersContinue reading “What speaking life to one another is not, and what it is – Part 3”
How Jesus sets us free to live a flourishing life – John 7:53-8:11, Part 4
In the temple courts, Jesus is standing alone with a woman who had been caught in adultery. With her accusers now gone, Jesus responds to the woman, in John chapter 8, verses 10-11: “Jesus straightened up and asked her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ ‘No one, sir,’ she said. ‘Then neitherContinue reading “How Jesus sets us free to live a flourishing life – John 7:53-8:11, Part 4”
Christians are free from the law and free for holiness – Galatians 5:16-26, Part 2
In the United States we often say, “It’s a free country, I can do what I want.” But that’s not true. Yes, the USA is a free country, but people are not free to do whatever they want. We have TONS of laws, and if you break a law you will face the consequences. WeContinue reading “Christians are free from the law and free for holiness – Galatians 5:16-26, Part 2”
How Jesus sets us free – Galatians 1:1-5:15, Part 4
One of my favorite Bible verses is Galatians 2:20. Open a Bible and read Galatians 2:17-21, and take note especially of verse 20. See what Paul says in verse 20? The amazing truth is that by faith Christ Jesus can live in us!!! That’s a million times better than trying to keep the law! GodContinue reading “How Jesus sets us free – Galatians 1:1-5:15, Part 4”
Are social media companies making promises they can’t fulfill? – Ecclesiastes 5:8-6:12, Part 4
Have you seen the recent commercials by Facebook or Tik Tok? Look at the smiles and joy emanating from the people in the commercials. What message would you say these commercials are sending? Here’s what I think the message is: “If you participate in our network you will experience joyful life, true community, fulfillment andContinue reading “Are social media companies making promises they can’t fulfill? – Ecclesiastes 5:8-6:12, Part 4”
Engaging Scripture 