Some people think of worship like a business transaction––a quid pro quo. Others offer their praises in order to feel something. Enjoying the emotional reaction to God’s presence isn’t bad. In fact, it’s one of the most pleasurable of human emotions. But worshipping only in order to achieve that feeling can be self-seeking instead of …
Is Meekness Weakness?
The meek bridle their lust for power and live to serve others. “The ‘politics’ of the Kingdom,” says Scott Bessenecker, “has more to do with meekness, submission and dying to self than it does with exercising authority to increase my share in this life (emphasis mine).” Some outside observers evaluate Jesus’ words about being good …
Jesus’ Counterintuitive Creed
Can you imagine if the principles of Jesus’ Teaching had been recited over the centuries, each time with conviction? I believe in loving my enemies and blessing those who persecute me I believe in nonviolent resistance to social injustice I believe in storing up my treasures in heaven instead of on earth I believe that …
Where Shalom is Needed Most
Shalom is tested best on society’s margins and is exposed by how the disempowered are treated. When you find an enormous discrepancy between the opportunities for the rich and the poor or the white and the black or men and women, shalom is AWOL. Systemic injustice is what someone called “violence in slow motion.” Jesus’ …
barney wiget 