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In some ways the Mosaic law is to the Christian what a crutch is to an athlete. It is good when needed and used properly. But a crutch cannot be employed to win a 100-yard dash, nor can leaning on a system of legal statements ever bring us spiritual victory.
First Breath
Russell Nagy's moving choral anthem "The Promise" contains these words:
Silently by night,
in mortal flesh enshrouded,
He who framed the mountains
draws first breath.
Far from human sight,
the Promise ne'er forgotten
Is in love begotten
to conquer death.
© 1993 by High Street Music
Born In Us
During a visit to England's picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon, I was struck by how a town's identity and future can be affected just because someone was born there. Every year, half a million people come to visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, whom some consider the most influential playwright in the English language.
The Big News
In December 1903, after many attempts, the Wright brothers were successful in getting their "flying machine" off the ground. Thrilled, they telegraphed this message to their sister Katherine: "We have actually flown 120 feet. Will be home for Christmas."
Touched At Christmas
In the past I've been annoyed by crowded church services during the Christmas season. I disliked the jam-packed pews and the hard-to-find parking places. I've even grumbled after being shunted to an overflow room when the sanctuary had filled long before the service began. Why don't these people who come once a year just stay home? I thought.
