The Apostle Peter is no stranger to suffering and tests of faith that come with the Christian life. Only the Apostle Peter knows how it feels to deny Christ under pressure. Filled with overwhelming regret, the remorse at refusing his discipleship three times buckles him. Yet it is in these moments of sorrow that Peter gives us a beautiful prayer asking for God’s intervention. In a cry for Christ he pleads “Save Me Lord.” Just days before, Peter proclaims Christ as the Son of the Living God with conviction. Recognizing that his Father in heaven had revealed this truth by grace, Christ gives Peter the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. A few hours later, Peter denies that he even knows Christ. How he wished he could have relived that test of faith all over again. But as God’s grace strengthens him, Peter becomes…
The Fiery Letters of St. John St. John is well known as the “Disciple whom Jesus loves.” Despite his many beloved qualities, Christ gives the son of Zebedee a unique nickname – calling him the “Son of Thunder” (Mk. 3). He knew that coupled with St. John’s loving nature was a fiery temperament. The Letters of John reveal why this name is so fitting. They were written at a time when the Church was experiencing a great crisis in faith led by outside attack against the Gospel. John’s Letters are like exploding cannon balls. Their words strengthen the faith of the Christian community to trust God and not to fall for the devilish traps set by the deceivers. One thing was clear. The assault on the Church would not go unanswered. Not on a Son of Thunder’s watch. John’s Letters Concisely Deal with Those Attacking…
After much thought, Solomon decided to visit his friend Job. If anyone could rejuvenate hope in the Creator, it would be him. Solomon pondered how this good man could endure such terrible suffering and still emerge with a heart for God. Feeling hopeful, Solomon set off for Uz. Arriving at Job’s home, Solomon appreciated the warm welcome and comforting surroundings. Job’s eyes twinkled contentment. Could this be the same man?” Solomon found it hard to believe that not long ago, Job was covered in terrible sores and stricken in grief after losing all ten children. But now, he simply beams peace? He wanted the tranquility Job was effortlessly releasing into the air like cascading bubbles. Sipping hot tea by a colorful fireside, the two old men began to converse about God. Solomon: “God is here listening – you know this right? Job: Isn’t He always? So tell me…
Have you ever grappled for the right words to express how you feel? In one of the most blissful moments of your life the words you choose just don’t express your happiness enough? Conversely, when hard times break in the sadness you feel can leave you speechless. After all, being tested by God is one of the ways that we humans give meaning to suffering. Words often lack capacity to adequately describe the depth of pain or loss. The collection of sacred writing in the Book of Psalms provides 150 hymns and contemplative poems that beautifully express so many human emotions. The sentimental words of love, hope, sorrow and gratitude weaved within every page quench the soul’s search for God like no other writing can. In the words of C.S. Lewis “The most valuable thing the Psalms do for me is to express the same delight…
Was King David a Model King? King David is renowned as one the most beloved leaders of ancient Israel. Known as a man after God’s own heart, David’s military expertise, courage and humble devotion to prayer make him a model leader. That is, until you come to understand the devastating impact his choices have on countless lives. With so much blood spilled by David’s own hands, God refuses his offer to build the sacred Temple in Jerusalem. Nevertheless, the young boy with “ruddy” hair is precisely anointed by God with good reason. By careful examination of David’s character strengths and flaws, I hope to show why he is indeed worthy to be called a great King. Praise Worthy You may have first heard about the boy David in the incredible story of his standoff with the terrifying Philistine called Goliath. He shows great courage by boldly…
