This Sunday is the official beginning of Advent. Advent means “arriving,” and is the celebration of the coming of Jesus. During the four weeks of Advent, we will be lighting candles on the Advent wreath, which is full of traditional symbolism. In case you’re less familiar with these traditions, here’s a brief overview.   The … [Read More…] December 3, 2023

On this Thanksgiving weekend, I’ve been reflecting on some of C.S. Lewis’ meditations in his Letters to Malcolm: Chiefly on Prayer. He writes of how life’s little pleasures should spark gratitude in us which leads eventually to adoration. Here are some excerpts:   “[We] shall not be able to adore God on the highest occasions … [Read More…] November 26, 2023

Our Thanksgiving Offering is an amazing way to make Kingdom impact each year. This year’s offering will go toward planting churches in Cuba and Turkey, as well as providing a compassionate response to the migrant crisis here in Chicago. Please pray about what the Lord would have you give!   I want to encourage you … [Read More…] November 19, 2023

Greetings to you from Southern Brazil! Pastor Bill Van Tuinen and I have privilege this week of visiting with Lee and Regina Bloch, long- term missionaries of The Moody Church. We are experiencing their ministry up-close and in-person this week. We’re meeting with local pastors and church planters. I’m preaching at a couple different churches. … [Read More…] November 12, 2023

Whenever the calendar turns from October to November, my heart shifts toward Thanksgiving. As a culture, we often rush past Thanksgiving to embrace the merriment of Christmas. As much as I love Christmas, I think that is a huge mistake.   Spontaneous gratitude is one of the most obvious characteristics of a healthy soul. Gratitude … [Read More…] November 5, 2023