They call it Silent Wednesday, because after a flurry of activity, Jesus does nothing of interest on the Wednesday of Holy Week. He had made three consecutive trips to the Temple to provoke the leadership. First on Sunday, he went to the Temple as the grand marshal of a triumphant parade. On Monday, he returned as a passionate reformer, overturning tables and making room for the poor and the lame where once there had only been commerce and greed. Tuesday had been the day of r

I am an avid fan of hymn-writer Isaac Watts (1674-1748). He authored many celebrated songs, a few of which are still used in our churches today. "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" is probably the greatest hymn ever written and Watts' most famous work. Recently, I stumbled across a lesser-known hymn by Watts and wanted to share its powerful message with you today. Now Satan comes with dreadful roar And threatens to destroy; He worries whom he can't devour With a malicious joy.

I recently watched the new Fantastic Four movie with my family. Compared to some of the recent Marvel movies, this one was good, and I enjoyed it. Beyond the cinematic entertainment, the film also carries a fascinating moral dilemma worth exploring. I think I can say without spoilers that the movie’s premise revolves around one ethical decision: would you sacrifice your baby son to save the earth? The plot is reminiscent of the old philosophical riddle about having five adult

There is something wrong in our world. Some people might seem more caught up in that wrong than others. So, as we try to get our lives right, we want to know—what is our relationship to what’s going on out there? Do we protect ourselves by keeping it all at a safe distance? Do we engage it? Do we affirm it? What’s the right relationship to have with the mess in the world? That’s the question that leads to the series of parables in Luke 15. At the beginning of the chapter, Jes