Author: luke

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).  These words of Jesus communicate both his heart and purpose in leaving the glory of His Father’s presence (John 17:5) and joining the likes of mankind (Philippians 2:6-8).  Jesus was on mission: His Father’s mission, which He had owned for Himself. … Continue reading “Come and See”: An Invitation

What is it in our human nature that struggles so hard with thankfulness?  Why are our blessings so often on our periphery while our complaints and demands grab our full attention? We are reminded this week to take time to be thankful.  It may, in fact, be the one time each year that a majority… Continue reading The Discipline of Gratitude

In a society that is deeply wounded with the rampant rise of divorce, broken families, fatherless children, and identity crisis, there has been a healthy resurgence in recognizing the importance of family.  Husbands and parents are urged to guard their family time and balance their priorities to honor their Lord with their families.  Without caution,… Continue reading The Anomaly of “Balance”

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”  These beautiful words of Jesus in John 15:11 emanate with hope that appeals deeply for a world that is so desperate to know and hold on to evading happiness.  They are rich truth that builds a foundation for… Continue reading Pain and Hope in Grief

Romans 14 compels the Christian who is strong in his liberty to surrender his rights for the spiritual well-being of his fellow believer that has convictions.  But when does that become excessive?  What if this is abused?  Should Christians with convictions desire this loss of liberty?  Here we find some exhortations for the weaker brother,… Continue reading Christian Liberty, Stifled… Exhortations for the Weaker Brother

Our decisions matter!  It is important that we work hard to thoughtfully reflect on biblical truth and carefully discern what practices are wise.  As Romans 14:5 says, “Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.”  That is, we should make our decisions from personal convictions that we have diligently worked for.  But how… Continue reading Wrestling with Convictions

I rarely cry.  To some, that would look good.  Like true composure.  But I think I’ve trained myself in a harmful way.  “Sadness” is a barely recognizable and identifiable emotion.  Instead, it is stifled, along with any hint of tears.  Sadness may instead express itself in silence, withdrawal, or anger.  Its suppression is actually a… Continue reading Real Men Cry… Together

When’s the last time you had a spiritual EKG?  An EKG measures the electrical activity of the heartbeat.  Have you considered what makes your heartbeat?  Let’s have a look… Does the good news of Jesus drive you each day?  Or is it shelved each week to be remembered again on Sunday?  Are you freshly excited… Continue reading Dangerously Familiar

How well do you know some of your fellow church members?  I don’t just mean their name, that on most Sundays they’re doing “good”, and a few standard facts about them.  I’m not advocating for knowing more about people.  I’m suggesting that it’s time to invest ourselves into deeper relationships with our family in Christ!… Continue reading What It Means to Be Community