Category Archives: Jewish History/Culture

Master Gardener

Master Gardener
“… my Father is the Vinedresser.” John 15:1 Do you have a green thumb? I enjoy being in the garden but don’t really know what I’m doing. I’ve uprooted a bush or two and moved them around the yard – usually because I planted them in the wrong place to start with. The roots were torn…
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Stealing worship?

Stealing worship?
Paul and Barnabas had quite a ministry back in the first century. Paul counted himself among the apostles and had a global “ends of the earth” reach to his ministry. He healed people, started churches and his very presence was so volatile it could ignite riots. He was kind of a big deal, even then.…
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No Stumbling, Please

No Stumbling, Please
You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:14 This seems like such an obvious instruction that I’m embarrassed it had to be said. Who would be so cruel as to trip a blind person? Compassion should come in abundance…
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It’s Your Call

It’s Your Call
So much of the Bible leaves stories and invitations open-ended. The response of the people (or characters) involved is left silent and we are left to wonder. Most prominent is the invitation Jesus offers to all of us. “I stand at the door and knock.” Will we open? He is promising to come in and…
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