LUKE 2:8–14 On the final day of a Christian publishing conference in Singapore, over 200 participants from 50 countries gathered for a group photo. After many photographs were taken, a voice from the crowd shouted with relief, “Well, joy to the world! Another person responded, “The Lord is come,” showcasing unity and joy. The entire … [Read more…]
ROMANS 9:1-5 We knew nothing would be the same again. Our hearts were burning as we departed from St. Barnabas’, Elekahia, the location of our ordination retreat, for St. Paul’s Cathedral, Diobu, where we were ordained by the Rt. Revd. Samuel Elenwon on December 24, 1997. “Come then, with hearts aflame,” wrote Clement of Alexandria in … [Read more…]
ECCLESIASTES 5:10–19 In the festive season of Christmas and New Year, many people are shopping. Some have limited resources, aiming to purchase items at a price they can afford. But there are others who are motivated by greed and pride. The Old Testament writer of Ecclesiastes, “the Teacher,” offers an antidote to consumerism, stating that those who … [Read more…]
1 PETER 3:8–12 Some companies now offer “unsend” features that allow users to stop an email or message from leaving their computer or phone, preventing it from being sent to the wrong person or containing harmful words, emphasising the importance of guarding our words. Peter’s letter to Jesus’ followers advises against repaying evil and cursing others but … [Read more…]
PSALM 119:9–16 Maybe you have seen a TV programme when a person answers the door and discovers someone who gives them a huge cheque or cash. Subsequently, the astonished recipient starts yelling, twirling, leaping, and embracing everyone within reach. “I won! I am rich! It is unbelievable!” Hitting it big produces a powerful emotional reaction. In … [Read more…]
1 PETER 1:17–23 According to legend, Julius Caesar, a Roman nobleman, was abducted by pirates in 75 BC and held captive for a ransom. Persuaded that his value exceeded 20 talents, he demanded that the ransom be increased to 50 talents. Caesar’s arrogance contrasts with God’s regard for every individual, since our value is established by what … [Read more…]
LUKE 6:27–36 On the final day of the US Civil War, Union army officer Joshua Chamberlain ordered his soldiers to salute their Confederate foe without taunting or using vicious words. This brilliant act of bravery demonstrated the importance of maintaining peace and honouring one’s enemy, as one wrong word or belligerent act could lead to … [Read more…]
LAMENTATIONS 3:21–26; PSALM 63:3 A recent airline flight tossed passengers left and right down the runway during a somewhat bumpy landing. A couple of the passengers appeared apprehensive, but two small girls seated behind us cheered, “Yeah! Let us do that again!” Children’s openness to new adventures and humble wonder may align with Jesus’ teachings to receive … [Read more…]
MATTHEW 25:31–40 During a downturn in Southern California, Pastor Bob Johnson recognised both difficulties and opportunities. He invited the mayor to discuss how his church could assist, which surprised the mayor. People usually came to him for help. Here was a minister offering him the services of his congregation. The mayor and pastor collaborated to tackle pressing … [Read more…]
MARK 3:13–19 We may be inclined to ignore a list of names when we come across one in the Bible. However, there are gems to be found, like the list of the twelve apostles that Jesus appointed to serve in His name. Among them is Simon, whom Jesus referred to as Peter, the rock. James … [Read more…]
RECENT COMMENTS: