Posts from January 2025

I randomly came across an interesting article in a Facebook post this week where I learned that the supposed Icelandic translation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, first published in 1901, was discovered in 2014 to not be a translation at all. Instead, it was more like fan fiction: the author had taken the gist of the story, changed a good bit, and come out with something completely different. And then I noted, in response, several people had so cleverly commented with…

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. – Psalm 19:1 This past week, we enjoyed the rare sight of snow blanketing our town—and, in fact, the entire Gulf Coast. We relished spending all morning long out in it; from pictures I have seen, I know that many of you did too. And while I realize that not all of us might have been quite that excited about it, no one can deny the…

As Christians, we are people who are forgiven by God; as a result, we are to be people who are forgiving. The forgiveness we extend to others is a result and reflection of the forgiveness God extends to us. Paul puts it: Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32). Of course, that is easier said than done. How do we put aside our hurt? Our pride? The key is in…

After this Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus…

At this season of the year, we often are thinking about setting new goals. In conjunction with that, it is also wise to consider common pitfalls to avoid. Israel reached the zenith of its power during the period of the United Kingdom, when Saul, David, and Solomon sat on the throne. These kings have many things in common. They were chosen of God to rule his people. They were all men of great ability. Each did some outstanding things during…