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The Nightmare before Christmas
I can only imagine the thoughts running through Mary’s mind when the angel Gabriel told her that she will conceive as a virgin and give birth to a son, who will be great and called the Son of the Most High (Luke 1:32). Now, although Mary was obedient […]
Stones Cry Out
Every year it seems that Christmas becomes more and more commercialized. Even in nations where the majority of people call themselves “Christian,” the season has become more about shopping than worshiping. The pressure to buy gifts and plan elaborate parties makes it increasingly difficult to stay focused on the real meaning of the holiday—the birth of Jesus, God’s only Son, the Savior of the world.
Out of the Ashes
During hardship and trouble, tough questions often arise: Where is God? How do I respond to difficulties? Is God both good and all-powerful? In the Discovery Series booklet Out of the Ashes by Bill Crowder, you’ll explore Job’s struggle with the problem of suffering. Through Job’s story, discover how you can trust God despite unanswered...
The Loving God
Many miles from where I am and some thousands of years ago, lay a peaceful looking infant in a manger lined with hay. Barely moments after his birth, angels from above presented their repertoire of praise, and lowly shepherds came and bowed before this blessed child. It was […]
Creeping Christmas?
I love Christmas. The celebration of the birth of Christ and the beauty and wonder of the season make it “the most wonderful time of the year” for me. In recent years, however, the season has been accompanied by a growing irritation. Every year “Christmas stuff” comes out earlier and earlier—creeping all the way back to early fall.
The Ultimate Sacrifice
When Deng Jinjie saw people struggling in the water of the Sunshui River in the Hunan province of China, he didn’t just walk by. In an act of heroism, he jumped into the water and helped save four members of a family. Unfortunately, the family left the area while he was still in the water. Sadly, Jinjie, exhausted from his rescue efforts, was overwhelmed and swept away by the river current and drowned.
Let’s take a closer look at Jacob’s life-transforming vision
Exhausted from running from his lies and deceit, Jacob finally fell asleep. And the dream God gave him turned his entire life around! Have you had a moment that changed your life?
Veins Of Gold
While visiting the charming Cotswold area of England, I purchased some bone china mugs as souvenirs. I used them carefully, but eventually one fell into the sink and shattered. I thought about that mug recently when I learned about the Japanese art of Kintsugi.
Crowns Of Honor
The Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom are stored securely and protected within the Tower of London under 24-hour guard. Each year, millions visit the display area to “ooh and aah” over these ornate treasures. The Crown Jewels symbolize the power of the kingdom, as well as the prestige and position of those who use them.
Let’s look at how Jesus touches the untouchable
Leprosy is a deadly skin disease that leaves its victims disfigured and feeling rejected and completely unlovable. It’s the story of God’s healing of one leper, and us. A brand new series in Mark, chapter 1.
Good Friday
By Benedict Tan The crowds were gathered, crying for blood, demanding death. They could not accept Almighty God’s redemptive plan. In the mockery and scoff, I heard my own reviling voice. The hands that wrought the frames of earth Was nailed—held to a wooden frame. God could not behold the Righteous One, Filthy with the […]
Tears Of Gratitude
At a communion service my wife and I attended, the congregation was invited to come forward to receive the bread and cup from one of the pastors or elders. They told each one personally of Jesus’ sacrifice for him or her. It was an especially moving experience during what can often become just routine. After we returned to our seats, I watched as others slowly and quietly filed past. It was striking to see how many had tears in their eyes. For me, and for others I talked with later, they were tears of gratitude.
Let’s look at the first Easter story from a fresh perspective
For those who’ve grown up in the church, the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection may have become overly familiar. Sometimes we forget the magnitude of His suffering on the cross! Let’s help restore the awe of Easter. We’re talking about “Malchus.”
Discover a man name “Malchus” and how he showed up in the first Easter
We can learn a lot from the prominent characters in the Bible, people like David, Esther, and Peter. But sometimes the minor personalities in Scripture can have just as much impact!
Jesus’ Love For All
It was a bit unusual, but three times in one day I heard the same song. In the early afternoon, I attended a hymnsing at a home for the elderly. As part of her prayer at the end of our time together, Willie, one of the residents, said, “Sing with me, ‘Jesus Loves Me.’” In the evening, I attended a gathering with young people who sang it while pounding out the beat with their hands and feet. Later that evening, I received a text message on my phone with an audio recording of my 2 1/2-year-old grandniece with a sweet little voice, singing, “I am weak, but He is strong.” People in their nineties, teenagers, and a toddler all sang that song that day.
