Mark’s few verses are consistent with the theme of contrasts this week. Perhaps we need these opposites to remind us of life’s ebb and flow. Today is the summer solstice, the...

Today’s scripture provides a striking contrast in tone. We are lifted up with affirmative praise and reminded of the reward for those who seek God (vv. 9-12). Then just as quickly...

This scripture is a treasure trove of truth about ourselves. Here we have the example of what we can become when we are unsure of ourselves as Goliath was when he...

Our first image of the Philistines is that of an unsettled, wandering, irritable, and discontent people—like me for a long period of my life. What is likely to happen to us...

In today’s reading, the apostle Paul outlines some tenets of trust for all who believe in Jesus Christ. Am I confident in the Lord, no longer clinging to this earthly life...

Individuals applying for employment in the federal government are often required to complete an administrative background investigation called the National Agency Check. This security check is a validation of public trust...

I  preached my first sermon over fifty years ago as a young teenager. The text and subject of the message escapes my memory, and I’m quite sure the congregation would say...

We live in an age of instant gratification, same-day delivery service, and high-speed Internet. The insatiable demand for quick results fills our lives, and we have no patience . . ....

This psalm opens with a reminder to place trust in God “in the day of trouble.” Days or seasons of trouble certainly come in this earthly life. Those who trust in...