This has all the elements of a love song—the unbearable longing, the near despair when the beloved appears to be far away, and the loving memory of the beloved’s attributes. But the beloved is God. The psalmist uses what were even then romantic conventions as the only language strong enough to express the depth of his love for the Lord. More »

This Sunday’s gospel contains some of the most typical and forceful words of Jesus’ preaching: "Love your enemies" (Luke 6:27). More »

Imagine how discouraged this woman must have felt! For twelve years she had futilely sought a cure for her bleeding disorder, only to be disappointed time and time again (Mark 5:25). More »

In the winter, seeing a tree stripped of its leaves, and considering that within a little time the leaves would be renewed and after that the flowers and fruit appear, Brother Lawrence received a high view of the Providence and Power of God, which has never been erased from his soul. —The Practice of the Presence of God More »

Jesus had "appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to cast out demons" (Mark 3:14-15). They had been busy sharing in Jesus’ ministry, preaching repentance and even healing the sick (6:12-13), and now they had returned, eager to tell Jesus all they had done. Tired from the continual press and clamor of the crowds, Jesus sought a place of rest for himself and the twelve (6:30-32). It was futile, however. When Jesus was recognized, the people hurried after him (6:33). More »

Bringing a new life into the world is an astonishing responsibility. How many new parents have looked down at their baby in the crib, then looked up at each other and wondered, "What have we done?" More »

Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38) More »

Have you ever wondered what it must have been like to be living in Israel around the time of Jesus? To many people, it must have felt as if they were living through a religious explosion. More »