The Israelites finally have arrived. After forty years of wandering in the wilderness, God has brought them into the Promised Land. The long and difficult journey has lasted for a generation,...

Jesus knew trees. As a carpenter, he understands how even the chopped-down tree has its uses. Like everyone else in ancient times, he eats directly from trees along the way. Thomas...

Pilate reportedly ordered the execution of some Galileans just as they were offering sacrifices in the Temple. Hearing this news, Jesus reminds his listeners of the eighteen people who died when...

I once heard a comedian say, “The problem with the lessons of history is we never learn the lessons of history.” These primal days of Israel’s history as a nation liberated...

Psalm 63 takes a surprising turn in verse 6. Verse 5 begins, “My soul is satisfied . . . my mouth praises”—but when? “When I think of you on my bed, and meditate on you...

Got Jesus? is a question, almost a dare, I’ve seen posed by posters and sweatshirts. I want to respond by saying, “I hope he’s got me.” But a better answer might...

“Seek the Lord while he may be found.” When would that be? Now! Claus Westermann translates it, “Seek Yahweh since he may be found.”* God does not hide in some distant...

The Israelites who hear the prophet’s ringing, joyful proclamation must scoff. The city is in ruins; the possibility of rebuilding the nation must seem ridiculous. To such demoralized people, needing a...

How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!” What a tender and helpless image! What...