Are You Listening?
One of the happiest memories of my childhood is that of my mother reading Bible stories to me at bedtime. Many of them made a great impression on me, especially the incident in the life of Samuel described in 1 Samuel 3. I can still hear my mother reciting the young boy's response to the call of God: "Speak, for Your servant hears" (v.10).
Dirty Windows
The Shepherd's Home in Wisconsin has a problem with dirty windows. Although many of its residents are severely disabled, they love Jesus and understand that He has promised to return someday and give them new bodies. "Every day," said the superintendent, "some of them go to the windows and press their noses against the glass, looking for Him."
Tell The Children
Imagine an evening in ancient Israel. The day's work is done, the meal is finished, and the family is gathered around a small fire that pushes away the night chill and casts a soft glow on their faces. It's story time.
Just Like My Dad!
Like so many kids her age, my daughter Julie loves to play basketball. Of course she's had more than a little encouragement, since that is my sport of choice.
Laughing Gas
Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is used to reduce the pain of surgery. Because it produces an insensitivity to physical suffering, its effects are usually pleasurable. Patients under its influence have been known to sing and laugh hysterically before losing consciousness.
The Strong Weak People
If there is anything that we love to hate more than the arrogance of others, it would have to be an awareness of our own weakness. We detest it so much that we invent ways to cover our personal inadequacy.
Higher Math
Mathematical formulas work well with numbers, but not with people. That's why this equation in James 1 sounds unworkable:
Speaking The Truth
Whenever the young men whom John Wesley sent out to preach returned, he would ask two questions: "Was anyone converted?" and "Did anyone get angry?" If the answer was no to both questions, he cautioned them about entering the ministry. He explained that when God's Word is faithfully presented, people either believe or they become antagonistic.
God's Justice
John Wayne Gacy was executed by the State of Illinois for kidnapping, torturing, and murdering 33 young men. Gacy was an evil, cruel, hateful man, and I confess I'm glad he's no longer a threat to society.
