Lead in: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son.” John 3:16 This famous line from scripture that we sometimes see hung from the second deck as a banner at nationally televised football games is familiar to most of us. So, what is that verse really...

Lead in: “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, he cannot be my disciple.” Jesus’ words seem shocking to us. A commentary gives this explanation. The Greek word that is translated “hate” might better be understood as “prefer”....

Lead in: Jesus was once invited to a dinner party where many of the high rollers in town were in attendance. Not being afraid to speak his mind, Jesus tells a parable that hits close to home for many of the invited guests. He said, in effect, “When you host a dinner...

Lead in: In using the image of the narrow gate Jesus tells us, “Many will try to enter but will not be able to do so.” And they will say, “But Lord, we ate and drank with you!” And he will say, “I do not know where you are from.” So, how do we enter the Kingdom? Being...

Lead in: The journey of faith is a marathon - not a sprint - requiring perseverance. “Persevere in running the race that is set before you, keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus.” (Hebrews 12:2)Prompt: In running the race that is set before you, what has helped you stay in...

Lead in: In Luke 12:32, Jesus tells us not to be fixated on things that ultimately are not that important. Keep your eyes on the Kingdom of God at hand and also keep your eyes on the little things that we sometimes miss.Prompt: Can you think of something that, at...

Lead in: In Luke 12, a man wants Jesus to intervene to assure him that he gets his fair share of the family inheritance. Jesus refuses his request. Trying to fix the situation by intervening is a boundary Jesus will not cross. Interfering inappropriately creates a...

Lead in: In the Lord’s Prayer we pray, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”Prompt: In your life as you know it today, where is it hardest for you to pray “thy will be done”? Lead in: In the Lord’s Prayer we pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.”Prompt:...

Lead in: Spiritual author Virgina Herbers asks a good question, “Yes Lord, sitting with you as Mary does is a beautiful thing. But what about those sitting on their duffs while I am tending to all that needs to be done?” And the Lord’s response, “Yes, do what needs to...

Lead in: Spiritual author Virgina Herbers asks a good question, “Yes Lord, sitting with you as Mary does is a beautiful thing. But what about those sitting on their duffs while I am tending to all that needs to be done?” And the Lord’s response, “Yes, do what needs to...