Monthly Archives: March 2018

Samaria Acts 1:1-11 Samaria. It wasn’t really the place, it was the people. Orthodox Jews viewed them as an impure mix of Jewish and pagan blood. They were religious mongrels and ethnic half-breeds. The prejudice was real; the hatred palpable. … Continue reading →

Always Matthew 28:16-20 He was leaving, but he wasn’t. He was ascending to the Father, yet he would be present among his disciples. Present not just in their memories, but in person – the person of the Holy Spirit. He … Continue reading →

Beheaded Mark 6:14-29 For Herod Antipas, news of this miracle-working Jewish preacher could mean only one thing: John (the Baptist) was back from the dead. And probably out to get him. Herod Antipas’ personal life was worse than a soap … Continue reading →

He Sent Them Out Mark 6:7-13 Frankly, from a strategic viewpoint the timing of their sending doesn’t seem the best. Recently, following the stormy sea incident, Jesus bluntly asked them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” … Continue reading →

Hometown Mark 6:1-6 Nazareth wasn’t much. J.R. Edwards tells us that “archaeological excavations beneath the imposing Churches of the Annunciation and St. Joseph in Nazareth have uncovered a series of grottoes that date to the time of Jesus. The resultant … Continue reading →

The Livestock Psalm 104 Psalm 104 begins with language befitting the greatness of God. He is covered with light, lays the beams of his chambers on the waters, makes the clouds his chariots, rides on the wings of the wind… … Continue reading →

Something to Eat Mark 5:35-43 The story started a few paragraphs earlier. Jairus’ daughter was sick at the point of death. He begs Jesus to come and heal her. A sick child can humble even a ruler of the synagogue. … Continue reading →