A friend of mine told me a story. He started by saying, “My life has not been easy. Both of my parents died when I was sixteen years old and I have had a lot of bad days since then. Other people try to help me feel better, but it does not always work. And … Read more
I recently heard Rev. Dan Hudson from Sanctuary Church in Manhattan, IL speak at the Movement Conference hosted by LINC – Twin Cities. Now, much of the conference moved me, but none more than an analogy that Dan drew up on a sheet of paper. It has to do with aligning our priorities with Jesus’ … Read more
In 1 Samuel 3 we are told the story of the Lord’s calling of Samuel. Samuel, a young boy, ministered before the Lord under Eli. He had never heard the Lord’s voice before. One night the Lord called Samuel and thinking that it was Eli, the boy went to him and asked him what he … Read more
When I am eating in the Concordia Academy lunch room sometimes I see that someone has forgotten his/her food, or did not bring money to buy food. I should probably share some of my food with them. I think if I share my food, then I will be hungry later on. This is no excuse … Read more
A few weeks ago, you may recall that one of the Scripture readings here at Bethel was 1 John 3. Now, 1 John 3:16 is one of my favorite verses. John says: “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” On that particular Sunday however it was … Read more
I find myself intrigued by why people do what they do. In my intrigue, I try my best not to judge, but to simply observe. What makes it so intriguing is that often people are truly unaware of why they do what they do. They just do it! People don’t usually want to admit it … Read more
The Almighty God gives us work to do on this earth. Knowing Him does not always make the work easier. Everyone has difficulties. He will provide for us our need but we will need to accept the work He has for us, even if it is hard. Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 is a great passage to remember, … Read more
Two thousand years ago Jesus asked his disciples two questions that are incredibly relevant for a disciple of any time and place to consider. As they were walking along the road, Jesus asked his disciples “Who do people say that I am?” The disciples told Jesus that some had said that he was John the … Read more
Self-Expression I don’t usually tend to use political examples, but the “Occupy ____” movement has left me fascinated. For the longest time, analysts have tried to narrow down the message to a unified core, to no avail. Talk to five protesters and you get five different messages. Even the supposed leaders of the movement don’t … Read more
A New Look at Church Churches use slogans like that to make themselves seem hip and cool. I don’t know if we’re hip and cool, but I do think we’ve discovered some things about church over these last few years that bears some reflection. So, let’s take a brief look in the mirror. GodSpeak: Integrated … Read more