Around sixty years ago, my parents sailed (literally) from the US to the ends of the earth—the island nation of Papua New Guinea. They did this because they understood that God offers salvation to everyone and they wanted to give God’s Word to some who might otherwise never hear. Likewise, my husband and I answered the same call thirty years after my parents did, moving to Indonesia to share this good news. We understood that God planned from the very beginning to save all peoples, not just the Israelites.
Jesus
Not Forsaken
Was Jesus forsaken on the cross? Educated and religious Jews used a unique technique to recite memorized psalms. And so did Jesus when passers-by yelled insults at him as he hung dying on a cross. He wanted his people to know he was fulfilling a prophecy that predicted his specific suffering.
The Servant, Our Savior and Example
As I write this, Easter is just around the corner. Since I gave my life to Jesus some 50 plus years ago I struggle at times to revel in my Savior and how he saved me. This year, Isaiah is helping me rekindle that wonder while also showing me how to live.
Our Burden-Bearing God
What burdens are you carrying today? An ill child? Financial need? Deteriorating health? Diminishing capacity? Loneliness? Indecision? Losing someone you love? Failed mentors? Injustice? Growth of wickedness? Isaiah warns that trusting in anything other than God will only increase those burdens making them even more burdensome.
God Won’t Break a Bruised Reed nor Snuff Out a Smoldering Wick
Feeling bruised, battered, bent? Like a fragile reed? Feeling useless and discarded? Like a smoking wick about to go out? Jesus—the Servant—will not break you. He will not cast you aside.
Advent 2022 Fourth Sunday: With Us
My advent mediations are inspired by my recent study of 2 Corinthians which ended with a beautiful benediction—the only one that mentions all three persons of the Trinity. First, I looked at grace, then love, and fellowship. Today we focus on God with us.
Give the Gift of Good Listening
Each month I write a post for Bible.org for their women's blog: Engage. I am reposting this article for my Pondered Treasures readers because I believe so much in the power of effective listening.
Unnecessary Burdens or Freedom to Love?
The Pharisees put rules upon rules around the Ten Commandments in an attempt to guard against breaking them. But Jesus shares our yoke and carries our loads.
