In Pursuit of Jesus

Interview with Claire

I love to hear more about folks' faith journeys, and how the spirit of Jesus has shaped them in ways different from my shaping. So I sat down for a conversation with a Catholic friend of mine, Claire Madera, to hear some of her story. I hope it opens some doors for you, too!

Passing the Baton

The Church thrives if and only if every adult generation equips the next generation to live out its calling in Christ. Paul helped Timothy to step into God's call for him. We should always be on the lookout for ways to encourage and enable the younger folks in their gifts.

Redemption Song and Dance

What a weird thing we Christians do every week: get together and sing collective songs from genres that no one listens to on Spotify. Why do we do this? Moses and Miriam give us a glimpse from the far side of the Sea of Reeds.

Just Do Nothing

When the Egyptian army comes barreling down on the Hebrews, one thinks they will have either to flee or fight. But it turns out God's call is to do nothing. Nothing but watch the power and glory of God become a reality. Perhaps there are times for us to do nothing . . .

The Greatest Thing That Lasts

It's a warm fuzzy passage, lovely and inspiring. But it also points to a necessary discipline and reality in the life of the Church, especially during challenging times.

Cautionary Tales

Why does our sacred scripture contain a story of a man who sacrifices his only daughter to Yahweh? That's the question that one of my parishioners brought to me--and I offer a response to you.

Blood on the Doorposts

If you're used to repeating the phrase "blood of Jesus," then dig deep with me into the original Passover text to discover the original meaning of the blood of the lamb.

The Land Itself Will Revolt

The plagues on Egypt in Exodus 7-12 are a fascinating study. Underneath them is a movement of the earth itself that rejects Pharaoh's power and oppression. Such is the revulsion that God feels over injustices done in the world.

God’s Covenant For Us

The promise to the Hebrews in Egypt is a promise extended to us: Even when we don't get it, God's got it, and offers it all to us.

Gog and Magog

Why would we teach our children that Russia is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies? Is that what Ezekiel intended? Take a dive into the strange names Gog and Magog from Ezekiel 38.