Condemned to die and hanging on a cross. Hoisted upon two wooden boards and on display for crowds to mock and ridicule. An excruciating and shameful way to die, but truth be told, a fitting ending for the life of evil and crime I had led. My final moments took place at Golgotha - the place of the skull. I never could have imagined that at this very place - surrounded by death, pain, … [Read more...]
Jesus’ Perspective on the Temple: A Reconsideration in Light of his Jewish Context
April 10, 2017 By Leave a Comment
Introduction Broadly considering Jesus within his first-century context, a picture arises of him as an apocalyptic prophet heralding the Kingdom of God, Jesus maintained a positive view of the Temple while concurrently participating in the Temple cult, critiquing its corrupted practices, and reconstituting its central role and exclusive stance toward others. Jesus challenged the Temple … [Read more...]
How I Experienced New Life
March 28, 2016 By 2 Comments
I’ll never forget that day. The day I received a fresh start. The day I experienced new life. When I arose that morning I never would have expected for it to end the way it did. I awoke with a pit in my stomach. The feeling you get when you know you have to walk through something - but you don’t want to. When you would rather do anything else on that day, but that which … [Read more...]
GOING to Hell (to Preach)
April 7, 2012 By 3 Comments
"Mom, what is Saturday called?" I looked at my 11-year-old with a puzzled expression, unsure how to answer her question. "You know. Thursday is Maundy Thursday. Friday is Good Friday. Sunday is Easter Sunday. Even Monday is called Easter Monday. So what is Saturday called?" I considered the question, and realized I didn't have a good answer. Long after the conversation was … [Read more...]
FIXATING on the Crucifix
April 6, 2012 By 2 Comments
One hangs from my kitchen window. Bought at the end of a disappointing day in Santa Fe in December, and crafted from red chili peppers, it is my most unique version, and reminds me that all things can be redeemed - even grumpy days. Another hangs on the wall by the front door. Hammered from recycled tin drums by artists in Haiti, it demonstrates that beauty and hope can rise from … [Read more...]
