“Honor your father and mother”— which is the first commandment with a promise —“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” - Ephesians 1:2-3For whom do you think this was written? Was Paul writing to young children in their parents’ home? Was it written to teenagers? Was it written to adults/parents? Keep in mind that the culture in Israel often had 3 or more g...  Read More

As we reflect on marriage again this week, we will consider the way of wisdom described in Proverbs 31. However, Proverbs 31 is really a famous summary of the many virtues and blessings of godly Wisdom, personified as a woman earlier in the book (Proverbs 1:20-23; 8:1-9:12) and contrasted with another woman named Folly (see Proverbs 9:13-18). Verses 1-9 and 10-31 follow much the same pattern.In Pr...  Read More

Not everyone can say this, but I’m thankful for the home I grew up in. It certainly doesn't mean that it was perfect, and I have lots of examples of what to do and what not to do. But I am thankful for the provision, sacrifice, love, care, and nurture that I received.The Bible makes it clear that God is passionately concerned about the care and nurture of children. The words that we will hear on S...  Read More

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Ephesians 5:25In many North American weddings, the moment a bride begins her walk down the aisle is pivotal. Everyone stands to join the groom in watching her as she processes to meet him. Of course, that moment is important for the groom as well because he loves his bride and longs to have her with him. As t...  Read More

“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:7Having been around the hospital to visit parishioners, I’ve seen the highs and lows. I’ve also grown aware and appreciative of the intertwined complexities of the human body. People truly are beautifully and wonderfully made!As Paul writes to the Corinthians, he describes the body of believers in term...  Read More

“He (Paul is talking about leaders) must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap.”People look up to Christian leaders, expecting that the loving grace of God will shine through them. The apostle Paul considered it vital for Christian witness that overseers (elders and pastors) and deacons have a good reputation with those who don...  Read More