The Unpardonable Sin (Part 1)

I'm giving some serious thought to forgiveness as we approach the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur. As a side not, I acknowledge that this piece is particularly heavy with scriptural references, but since the topic is a little controversial in Christian circles, I thought it would be a helpful tracking device for my train of … Continue reading The Unpardonable Sin (Part 1)

The Unpardonable Sin (Part 2)

There is a passage which reads: "And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, `Who is this that doth speak evil [blasphemia] words? Who is able to forgive sins, except God only?'" (Luke 5:21). In this passage the noun is Greek blasphemia, intimately associated with the verb Luke uses in his "blasphemy against … Continue reading The Unpardonable Sin (Part 2)

“Dark Night of the Soul” by St. John of the Cross

When I began to formally study theology, a few of my friends within the Christian circle offered me a warning. Their argument centered around the idea that Christians should not become too focused on the systematic analysis of the scriptures because such studies might diminish the thankfulness we have for God’s grace and love. … Continue reading “Dark Night of the Soul” by St. John of the Cross

Methuselah: The Judean Date Palm

I grew up in Alaska, and since I loved animals, I imagined that I might make my living by chasing down caribou herds on the tundra or defending wild wolves from eradication. So fresh out of high school, I pursued a biology degree. As I progressed, however, it became clear that I had more affinity … Continue reading Methuselah: The Judean Date Palm

Comfort in Times of Loss

I wrote this for my class after a student passed away suddenly. Out of respect for privacy, I've removed the young man's name. ------------------------------------- Ever since last week, we have endured the pain of loss. I cried with you—perhaps even cried on your shoulders—as we said goodbye to our beloved J---. At his funeral, his … Continue reading Comfort in Times of Loss

Marriage (Part 1)

This was written as a lecture for the young women in the youth group that I co-lead, but I don’t think that the guys will be harmed in reading it! ------------------------------------------ I was invited to a baby shower the other day, and I am not sure if you have been to one of those before, … Continue reading Marriage (Part 1)

Marriage (Part 2)

Let me not convince you that marrying a Christian man means marrying a perfect man. None of us are perfect. Jesus (as man) is the ultimate model—and He was perfect—but I’m afraid we are going to fall short in that department. I’m telling you the truth when I say that your husband will do things … Continue reading Marriage (Part 2)

Marriage (Part 3)

We must consider where we have gone wrong on the aspect of marriage, and we cannot listen to all these chic new interpretations of the Bible that say we have obvious problems in trying to apply Paul’s view of marriage to a modern marriage. If you listen to those voices, they will likely tell you … Continue reading Marriage (Part 3)