In Acts 21–23, Paul concluded his third missionary journey and made his way to Jerusalem despite the caution of his fellow believers and knowing the danger he would face. Once in the city, he underwent a ritual purification in an attempt to unify the believers. Jews from Asia stirred up the crowd and nearly beat him to death but he was saved by the Roman commander, Claudius Lysias, and arrested. Paul gave his testimony to the Sanhedrin but they could not bear his talk of going to the Gentiles. He was almost flogged and a plot on his life was discovered. But God assured him he would testify in Rome. Paul was transferred to Governor Felix in Caesarea but the Roman ruler could find no legal charge against him.
Death
Mourning with the Disciples on Holy Saturday
Years ago, after my closest Indonesian friend died, I pondered the disciples and how they must have felt from Friday to Sunday morning after Jesus died. And I put those thoughts in my journal. A version of this as a liturgy—a written prayer—will appear in my upcoming book, "In Every Moment: Recounting God's Goodness in Overseas Life."
In That Day No More Tears and a Trumpet Call
Isaiah is replete with promises of a future time—in that day—when God will restore all things to his original design. One beautiful aspect of this future kingdom is the absence of death, mourning, and tears. Another is the trumpet call to signal the return of Jesus for his church.
Wise Words From My Mom
My mom was a keeper (pun intended). She kept documents, notes, calendars, prayer letters, cards—anything she thought important. On this thirteen anniversary of her graduation to glory, I share some of my mother’s wise words.
All I Really Need to Know I Learned in 2 Corinthians 5
I’m in a study of 2 Corinthians. I pondered long on chapter five as I realized the rich treasures I could glean from just these 21 verses. They answer most of the major questions in life. I offer them in Q & A format.
Filled With Grief
The second time Jesus predicted his death, the disciples were filled with grief. Some say that if they had understood and trusted Jesus, they would not have been sad. But I’m not so sure.
Mary of Nazareth: A Poem
This excerpt of "Quattro Marias" a poem by my sister-in-law, Karen Dubert describes Mary of Nazareth at Jesus's death and birth.
A Tribute to Another Friend
It was our first big conference at Christar. Mark was standing at the back of the room talking to some guy — a rather shaggy looking guy named Brian. Turns out he had lived in the place of my birth and governed my high school alma mater. He spoke Pidgin English and knew people I knew. On top of that, his wife was a counselor (as is my husband) and they were involved in missionary member care.
