Category Archives: Jewish History/Culture

Awakened to Gratitude

Awakened to Gratitude
How do you start your day? Our first moments likely impact our thoughts and attitude for the rest of the day. Our Jewish friends begin the day with the “Modeh Ani.” This short prayer, recited before getting out of bed, acknowledges the greatness of God and the Giver of life. It goes like this: I…
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Onesimus the Useful One: From Slave to Pastor

Onesimus the Useful One: From Slave to Pastor
One of my favorite people in the Bible is Onesimus, the runaway slave. It was a bold move to flee his master – an offense that could have cost him his life. I wonder if he heard the same teachings that brought his owner, Philemon, to faith and saw the change it made in him.…
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Questioning God

Questioning God
Abraham questioned God about His promise. Moses questioned Him about His plan; Job about his suffering. And David, well David seemed to question God about a lot of things. Is it okay when I find myself questioning God? The people listed above seemed comfortable with it – and in some instances God answered them. But…
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Freedom: We have a choice

Freedom: We have a choice
The tree in the Garden of Eden revealed the nature of our freedom to choose. By the free will bestowed on us, we can choose obedience or we can choose rebellion. And we continue to make those choices every day. Sometimes we face decisions that could change the direction our spiritual life. The Bible gives…
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