Jesus was familiar with suffering. The prophet Isaiah foretold the trials Christ would endure: He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. (Is 53:3) And, on the eve of his crucifixion, he explained […]
Beholding the King: Elisabeth Elliot
Yesterday morning brought the news of Elisabeth Elliot’s homecoming. As I read the report, tears filled my eyes, both from sadness and thanksgiving. I feel as though a mentor has slipped away, and yet, I rejoice that her rest has come. My first introduction to Elliot’s writing came in high school when a friend passed along […]
Finding Joy in Unplanned Circumstances
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) Early in the morning I approached his crib. Already dressed for my busy day, I greeted him with a smile. As I took him in my arms, he responded by throwing up […]
Easter: Don’t Miss the Miracle
Over the past couple of months, I’ve been reading through Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy (not the typical starting place for the Easter story, but I promise I’ll get there). I must admit, as the story of the Israelites unfolds, I find myself a bit flummoxed at their slowness to learn and quickness to grumble. […]