As a kid growing up in church, I was so close to the Gospel that I missed it for many years. Being a firstborn with a leaning toward people-pleasing, my natural inclination was toward performance. So at church, that meant bringing my Bible each week, attending Sunday school, memorizing verses, and adopting socially acceptable behaviors. … [Read More…] April 14, 2024
Today we begin a new chapter in our series through the Gospel of Luke. The question front and center is: “Who is this Jesus?” The crowds think He’s a great prophet, others describe Him as a brilliant rabbi, and as we’ll see this week, John the Baptist isn’t quite sure who Jesus is anymore. Who … [Read More…] April 7, 2024
It’s Resurrection Sunday! This is the day we get our lives back. Two thousand years ago, the crucified Jesus walked out of the grave— and the world has never been the same. Jesus has a death-defying life, and He wields His resurrection power on behalf of His people. When Jesus draws near, everything changes. … [Read More…] March 31, 2024
Growing up, my family prepared for Easter with daily readings, journeying with Jesus in His final and most glorious of days. It was a meaningful time to pause and remember what Holy Week is all about. Perhaps you and your family would like to read along in a similar fashion this year. Anointing of … [Read More…] March 24, 2024
When my kids came home with their Awana derby-making kits a little over a month ago, I knew I was in trouble. You see, when we came to Chicago four years ago, we moved from the suburbs to the city, which meant no basement or garage. So I sold off almost all my tools and … [Read More…] March 17, 2024
This world is full of exclusive clubs and carefully curated inner circles. Box seats. VIP access. Private dining rooms. It’s not what you know, but who you know, they say. The elites guard the gate with vigilance. Getting the invite—that’s the key. And only the worthy get in. Aren’t you glad Jesus isn’t like … [Read More…] March 10, 2024
What a wild week of weather we’ve had! From what felt like an early summer day on Tuesday in the mid-70s, we woke up Wednesday to temperatures in the mid-20s! With changes like that, things can feel super unpredictable. It’s a picture of the world we live in. There’s so much rapid change. Sometimes it’s … [Read More…] March 3, 2024
I had a really early bedtime as a teenager. I’m the oldest of six kids. My parents just wanted a few minutes of peace and quiet in the evenings, so we all had to be in bed early. My little siblings fell right to sleep, but I struggled. So my Mom said I could either … [Read More…] February 25, 2024
“We love because he first loved us.” —1 John 4:19 This year, the beginning of Lent and Valentine’s Day coincided on Wednesday. That seemed so fitting to me, because Lent marks the moment in the traditional Christian calendar when we turn our attention to the cross and resurrection of Jesus. And as 1 … [Read More…] February 18, 2024
One of the things I’ve discovered as I’ve traveled is just how well the Bible speaks to various cultures. For example, in the passage we’re looking at this Sunday, Luke 4:31–44, we see Jesus demonstrating His power over both supernatural evil forces and biological human dysfunction. Jesus is Lord over demons and diseases. His power … [Read More…] February 11, 2024
