JOHN 20:24–31 Lew Wallace’s novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, published in 1880, is considered the most influential Christian book of the nineteenth century. It tells the true story of Jesus and the fictional story of Judah Ben-Hur. The Gospels provide a glimpse into Jesus’ life, allowing us to witness His miracles, hear His words, … [Read more…]
LUKE 3:7–14; 2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 A pastor challenged his church to take their coats off and donate them to the needy. Despite the discomfort of the trip home during the winter, the act of giving coats to those in need helped warm up the season for many in need. This unsettling challenge exemplifies the power of … [Read more…]
GENESIS 12:1–9 John rented a tandem bike so that we could go on a ride together. I noticed that since I was at the back, his large shoulders were blocking my view of the road ahead. Our direction was only regulated by the front handlebars; mine supported my upper body only. I needed to have … [Read more…]
GENESIS 48:8–16 His son exclaimed, “I want my teacher for life!” when he had to switch classes at school. We had to assist him in realising that life requires changing teachers. Is there a relationship that can endure forever, we might wonder? Jacob, the patriarch, discovered a constant presence in his life after experiencing dramatic changes. … [Read more…]
1 SAMUEL 9:1–10 There is a street called Godliman Street in London. It is said that a man once lived there, whose life was so holy that his street was called “that godly man’s street.” This made me think of a story from the Old Testament. Saul’s father sent his son and servant to search for wandering … [Read more…]
NEHEMIAH 2:1–9; PSALM 145:18 Dan’s father wore hearing aids because his years of military service had damaged his hearing. After Dan and his mother had been chatting for a bit longer than he felt was appropriate one afternoon, he jokingly showed them what he does when he is tired of hearing—he lifted both of his hands, … [Read more…]
PSALM 116:1–9; JAMES 1:17 Fred, who had been unable to leave his home except for doctor’s appointments, was thrilled to hear his church’s live broadcast from his computer, a gift his son gave him, as he had been unable to leave his home. Fred teaches me about having a thankful heart despite limitations. He appreciates the smallest … [Read more…]
PSALM 102:25–28 My friend, experiencing recent challenges, expressed fear over the changes in her life, stating that nothing stays forever and that many things have changed significantly. Life-altering experiences can occur even in a day, such as career changes, new friendships, illness, or death. It is comforting to know that our loving heavenly Father remains unchanged. The … [Read more…]
LUKE 5:12–16 Passengers on a train saw an emotional end to a frightening scene. A 70-year-old woman softly extended her hand to a young man who was frightening other passengers with his threatening remarks. The man collapsed to the train’s floor, tears in his eyes, but was consoled by the lady’s kindness. “Thank you, Grandma,” … [Read more…]
EXODUS 20:3; 2 KINGS 23:12–14, 21–25 As he waited for his baptism in Togo’s Mono River, Kondi stooped to pick up an aged wooden carving. His family has been worshipping this object for generations. They watched as he flung the hideous figure into the fire. Their prized hens would no longer be sacrificed to this god. In … [Read more…]
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