Jan 24, 2013
1 Samuel 14: 1-52. Sometimes life can feel like a movie script. Despairing circumstances with little hope of resolution; dark forces seemingly too powerful to overcome; virtuous characters with limited ability; twists and turns where potential outcomes are in doubt; a great rescue at the end. This chapter of 1 Samuel...
Jan 15, 2013
1 Samuel 13:1-22. Saul has the distinction of not only being Israel's first king, but also (sadly) of being the first king to be rejected by the God Who chose him in the first place. As Matthew Henry says it; "Better a thousand times had Saul remained in obscurity tending his asses that to be enthroned and so soon...
Jan 15, 2013
1 Samuel 12:1-25. Saul's advancement to the kingship meant Samuel's retirement from leadership over Israel's civil affairs. In his retirement speech, Samuel gives the people a pathway to a truly successful life--that is, to fear the Lord and to serve Him faithfully with all your heart. It means to know who you are;...
Jan 2, 2013
Luke 2:21-35. Of all the Christmas gifts you received, did you really get what you were hoping for? Simeon was looking for the consolation of Israel--salvation for himself and for his world. Simeon received the best Christmas gift one could ever get--when he held that consolation in his arms and beheld the One who...
Jan 2, 2013
Luke 1:57-80. Sometimes the most knowledgeable and enlightened people can demonstrate the greatest doubt--which may be best slenced through quiet meditation on God's great redemptive work and recommendaton to the Divine Compassion.