When Jesus said, “…the hour has come,” He knew what awaited Him. He had the power to walk away, to toss aside the bitter cup, but He went to that hour with one goal: to glorify the Father. Despite His authority, He submitted to the cruel cross. And because He…

Jesus told His disciples all about the heartache that was to come, not only for Him. Yes, they as His followers would face suffering. And then He gave them words of encouragement and assurance: Be courageous! I have conquered the world! The disciples would see their Beloved One suffer and…

Shortly after my mom graduated to Heaven, I dreamed I encountered her in antique store. I was so excited! I ran up and hugged her and said, “Mom! It’s so good to see you. It’s been so long.” She said, “Yes, it’s been a thousand years.” I said, “It seems…

Have you ever experienced a “catch” in your spirit? It usually happens when we’re in the midst of decision-making or preparing to engage in a certain behavior or activity. Something inside brings us up short and asks the silent question: Is this wise? I’ve learned to heed that “catch,” because…

HYMN DAY! This hymn is sometimes called, “I Serve a Risen Savior,” and sometimes called, “He Lives!” Either title fits well. Written by Alfred Henry Ackley, these words are laden with joy! 1 I serve a risen Savior He’s in the world today. I know that He is living, Whatever…

One of the things I studied when I worked toward my degree in education was developmental appropriateness. There are some topics or activities better suited to ten-year-olds than to three-year-olds. A wise teacher knows when and how to present information to his students. The disciples often called Jesus “Rabbi” or…

Jesus knew He was leaving His disciples, but He also knew He wasn’t leaving them comfortless. The Holy Spirit would come and He would never leave them. The Holy Spirit definitely plays a role in the believer’s life. He is our Guide, our Comfort, our Discerner, our Strength, and so…

Oh, the power of Charles Wesley’s “Christ the Lord is Risen Today!” (I’m guessing verses 5 and 6 will be new to you. Let me know if you’ve sung all six verses!) Christ the Lord is ris’n today, Alleluia! Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and…

Jesus rose up from the grave! The verses from “Were You There”, adapted by John W. Work, Jr., take one from despair to rejoicing. Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Oh! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. Were…

Nearly everyone has sung the chorus of “He Is Lord” by Linda Lee Johnson, but have you ever sung the verses? Read these words–they are powerful. Emptied of his glory; God became a man, To walk on earth in ridicule and shame. A Ruler, yet a Servant; a Shepherd, yet…