The greatest worship experience of my life wasn’t in a church? – John 4:1-26, Preview

Bono, the lead singer of my favorite band, U2, recently came out with a memoir (which Michelle already ordered for me, and which I am excited to read!). In the meantime, I’ve been reading articles reviewing the book, reading interviews with Bono, and watching videos of him talking about the book on news and talksContinue reading “The greatest worship experience of my life wasn’t in a church? – John 4:1-26, Preview”

Failing at New Year’s Resolutions – Ezekiel 33:21-33, Preview

Happy New Year! Over the years around New Year’s Day, I’ve written about the kinds of resolutions Jesus would want us to make for the coming year. Think about that. Based on what you know of Jesus’ teachings and lifestyle, what do you think his resolutions for you are for 2022? Write them down onContinue reading “Failing at New Year’s Resolutions – Ezekiel 33:21-33, Preview”

Should we eliminate desire in our lives? – Ezekiel 14, Preview

Years ago, I remember listening to a new song thinking, “I don’t think I should be listening to this.  It doesn’t seem appropriate…but I’m not sure.”  Why was I concerned?  Because the song touched on themes that seemed to be getting really close to a line I knew I shouldn’t cross. I felt uncomfortable.  AtContinue reading “Should we eliminate desire in our lives? – Ezekiel 14, Preview”

How many rules do Christians need to follow? – Colossians 2:16-23, Part 1

How many rules do Christians need to follow?  I’ve heard the critique that Christianity is a religion with lots of rules.  “You can’t do this, and you can’t do that, and Christianity is so antiquated with all its super-restrictive rules!”  When Michelle and I were students in Bible college, the student handbook certainly had aContinue reading “How many rules do Christians need to follow? – Colossians 2:16-23, Part 1”

We really need grace

Do you or anyone you know go by a nickname?  I love the band U2, and both the lead singer Bono and lead guitarist, The Edge, go by the nicknames.  Bono has said on numerous occasions that even The Edge’s mom calls him “The Edge”. But I wonder how many people with a nickname referContinue reading “We really need grace”

What is a song of ascent? (the next U2 album?)

For years the rock band U2 has been hinting that they are going to release an album called Songs of Ascent. What might “Songs of Ascent” refer to?  Why would U2 think of that title? As the years went by, U2 changed directions a bit, first releasing an album called Songs of Innocence, and justContinue reading “What is a song of ascent? (the next U2 album?)”

How to have a good relationship with money – Part 2: Be Rich Toward God – Luke 12:13-21

      How is your relationship with money? I wrote this question on the welcome board in our church lobby.  We always have a question of the day, hoping to get people thinking as they walk in for worship.  As I conversed with one person yesterday, we started joking: “My relationship with money?  WeContinue reading “How to have a good relationship with money – Part 2: Be Rich Toward God – Luke 12:13-21”

Saying “NO!” to yourself

It is one of the hardest things to do.  When there is chocolate peanut butter cup ice cream in our freezer, it is nearly impossible. When U2 releases a new album, it basically IS impossible. What is it? Self-control. Patience.  Two of the most difficult words in the English language.  How many of you struggleContinue reading “Saying “NO!” to yourself”