Restored in Him

Workplace conversations often revolve around achievements, recognition and advancement—as well as the energy people put into reaching these goals. Although the culture values a spirit of competition and the drive it takes to win accolades, these are not the qualities by which the Lord evaluates our work. God calls His children to a different way of thinking and working—one that marks us as belonging to Him. It is called servanthood, and it is the Lord Jesus…

Samiah* hated the local tribe. Its soldiers committed atrocities against her family during the war in her homeland—sexually assaulting her daughter and murdering her brother. Now at a refugee camp in Southeast Africa, her hatred for the tribe was just as fierce as the day she arrived there. Steeped in anger, Samiah vowed to never talk to any member of that tribe as long as she lived. She wished she could kill them. But that wish changed the day she saw the JESUS.…

One of my all-time favorite books is Wild at Heart written by John Eldredge. Here's an excerpt. "The most dangerous man on earth is the man who has reckoned with his own death. All men die; few men ever really live. Sure, you can create a safe life for yourself ... and end your days in a rest home babbling on about some forgotten misfortune. I'd rather go down swinging. Besides, the less we are trying to "save ourselves," the more effective a…

The entire universe is standing on tiptoe, yearning to see the unveiling of God’s glorious sons and daughters! 20 For against its will the universe itself has had to endure the empty futility resulting from the consequences of human sin. But now, with eager expectation, 21 all creation longs for freedom from its slavery to decay and to experience with us the wonderful freedom coming to God’s children. 22 To this…

Off in the distance, I could see it coming – galloping toward me like a herd of wild horses. It was an intriguing yet perplexing thought that I tried my best to avoid. I ducked but it successfully circled my head and entered through my left ear. A sneak attack. “Well …….. with this whole COVID-19 stuff and ministry on hold indefinitely, maybe it’s time to enjoy life a little more. Relax, call it what it is, and cherish these last years of my.…

We invited our dear friend Mark to share a devotional he wrote for the guests and staff at Water Street Mission. I trust you'll be as encouraged as I was in reading and studying it. I recall the delight of seeing the expression on my granddaughter’s face when she saw a balloon for the first time. She laughed uncontrollably when I blew air into the balloon and then let it go. As it deflated it fluttered and danced around the room until it was empty again. I…

Could this be the time? Is Jesus’ return imminent? There are a lot of theories being tossed about inside and outside the church as to the reason for this worldwide pandemic. In truth, no one really knows what God is up to. Did He cause the pandemic? No! Will He use it for His purposes? Yes! So where are we in the greater story that God is writing, or in fact already written? Some see this as a period of rest or reset. The kind you need when you’ve been burnt to…

Last count, 40 days in lockdown. Social distancing and sheltering in place - our new vocabulary. No matter how grounded you may be as a believer, the times we find ourselves in are extremely difficult. Emotionally, psychologically, financially, physically – you can add your expletive in advance of each word. We need to name it. For many, it’s anxiety, fear of the unknown, sickness, grief if you’ve lost someone close to you, and a new normal. Except nothing…

I grew up in the ’70s. It was an odd time for music. Contrary to popular belief the genre of the era was not just Disco. Some of the best Rock n’ Roll music ever written came from that decade, including a song that I heard today.  Boston’s legendary lead singer, Brad Delp performing - A Man I’ll Never Be. Written by Tom Scholz, a fabulous musician in his own right, played lead guitar. Go online and listen in as you follow along with the lyrics.…