Romans 9:2-3 "…I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren…" What makes you really sad? Imagine a circle of relationships around your life. In the middle of this circle is your life. For most of us, our response grows …
Category: Sharing Christ
The Problem of Ineffective Christianity
Read Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 On July 20, 2004 Jason Clauss and his brother went surfing on a beautiful summer day off the coast of Long Island, New York. At the end of several hours of fun, Jason returned to shore and had removed his wetsuit when he heard cries for help offshore. Two brothers had …
At The Starting Line
Read Acts 2:1-21 In high school I enjoyed running on the track team. As the official gave us directions at the starting line, I vividly recall the adrenaline pumping through my veins at the beginning of each race. He would slowly call out three phrases in an elongated, deliberate tone: “Ready… on your mark… set!” …
Is it Worth a Bad Haircut?
Several years ago a mission pastor entered a barber shop around the corner from his church. Although he needed a haircut, his purpose was to build a witnessing relationship with the owner. They had a good talk, but the only result was a really bad haircut. Laughing at his new "butchered" look, the pastor visited …
The Pastor: The Life of a Door Man
Who gets in? Who gets left out in the cold? The door man decides. Several years ago, The Los Angeles Times entertainment website unveiled a cover story on the city’s club scene. Profiling door men who screen entry intoexclusive establishments, the article explains that success is attached to what you wear and who you are …