Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the Christian’s 40-day journey with the Lord to the cross and tomb, preparing for the proclamation of Easter. The 40 days are reminiscent of several biblical events: Jesus’ 40-day fast at the beginning of this ministry, Moses’ stay on Mount Sinai at the giving of the Law, and Elijah’s fast on his way to the mountain of God.
Once upon a time when I was growing up, there were those in my class who faithfully watched the WWF: the World Wrestling Federation. Do you remember any of that cast of crazy characters?
On a plaque on the wall behind my desk that I received as a gift for 15 years in the ministry is a Bible passage. It’s a passage that one of my favorite professors from my seminary days would use to end all of his courses.
Brandon and Tristan Spoerly were having the time of their lives. They had entered an essay contest sponsored by the Houston Texans.
Most of you know that I’m not a fan of winter. I’m actually enjoying the mild winter we’re having so far. But I know what’s coming.
I know this isn’t so much the case any more with all of the streaming and binge watching that takes place now. However, it used to be that when you watched TV, especially shows that had a plot line in them, that as the season would end, it would often end with a cliffhanger.
Why Bethlehem? Of all the places in Israel, why that little town of Bethlehem? Bethlehem was so insignificant, that it wasn’t even large enough to list when Judah was assigned her as part of her territory.
I watched the classic Charlie Brown Christmas Special again last week. If you haven’t seen it it in a while, perhaps you remember that Charlie Brown is frustrated with how commercialized Christmas has become.
What do you want for Christmas this year? It’s a question that takes on more urgency as Christmas draws closer, doesn’t it?
Isn’t it interesting how we often try to get people’s attention by being louder. We’ll shout someone’s name.
