Growing up, my family prepared for Easter with daily readings, journeying with Jesus in His final and most glorious of days. It was a meaningful time to pause and remember what Holy Week is all about. Perhaps you and your family would like to read along in a similar fashion this year.   Anointing of … [Read More…] March 24, 2024

When my kids came home with their Awana derby-making kits a little over a month ago, I knew I was in trouble. You see, when we came to Chicago four years ago, we moved from the suburbs to the city, which meant no basement or garage. So I sold off almost all my tools and … [Read More…] March 17, 2024

This world is full of exclusive clubs and carefully curated inner circles. Box seats. VIP access. Private dining rooms. It’s not what you know, but who you know, they say. The elites guard the gate with vigilance. Getting the invite—that’s the key. And only the worthy get in.   Aren’t you glad Jesus isn’t like … [Read More…] March 10, 2024

What a wild week of weather we’ve had! From what felt like an early summer day on Tuesday in the mid-70s, we woke up Wednesday to temperatures in the mid-20s! With changes like that, things can feel super unpredictable. It’s a picture of the world we live in. There’s so much rapid change. Sometimes it’s … [Read More…] March 3, 2024

I had a really early bedtime as a teenager. I’m the oldest of six kids. My parents just wanted a few minutes of peace and quiet in the evenings, so we all had to be in bed early. My little siblings fell right to sleep, but I struggled. So my Mom said I could either … [Read More…] February 25, 2024

  “We love because he first loved us.” —1 John 4:19   This year, the beginning of Lent and Valentine’s Day coincided on Wednesday. That seemed so fitting to me, because Lent marks the moment in the traditional Christian calendar when we turn our attention to the cross and resurrection of Jesus. And as 1 … [Read More…] February 18, 2024

One of the things I’ve discovered as I’ve traveled is just how well the Bible speaks to various cultures. For example, in the passage we’re looking at this Sunday, Luke 4:31–44, we see Jesus demonstrating His power over both supernatural evil forces and biological human dysfunction. Jesus is Lord over demons and diseases. His power … [Read More…] February 11, 2024

I think we sometimes forget just how radically Jesus’ life changed after His baptism. He grew up in the small town of Nazareth. His early years were spent learning and growing. Eventually, He became an apprentice in the family trade, learning carpentry from Joseph. He built friendships. He cultivated faith.   He cared for others. … [Read More…] February 4, 2024