If the death of Jesus occurred on a tree, and that death provided new access to the Tree of Life, then isn’t reasonable to expect that the birth of Jesus—to consistently maintain the unifying tree theme--also occurred at a tree of some variation? In other words, Jesus started his life at a tree and also ended his life at a tree. Sounds consistent and reasonable. But is there any textual evidence? There is indeed.
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Have you traced the trees in God’s redemptive program? Trees are lifesavers. Trees play a central role—you read that right—not a marginal role, but an active, central place in portraying humanity’s changing connection to the LORD God. In fact, as unlikely as it may sound, trees and humans are interconnected all the way through Scripture. That’s right. Trees and people are connected at the hip. Trees are the humans’ best friend.
Read MoreReading David and Goliath and Palm Sunday in the same title or sentence is not what you expected, I concede. But the stories both in 1 Samuel as well as the entire corpus of the Old Testament were written to anticipate a future royal figure with both priestly and prophetic duties. Just as the combo of Elijah and Elisha anticipate Jesus and the twelve apostles and Paul and the Elders in Acts 20, so also David, the anointed king and shepherd of Israel, foreshadows Jesus the anointed king and shepherd of Israel. Even his well-known battle with the incredible bulk, Goliath, has connections to Jesus. One of those connections is revealed on the day we term, “Palm Sunday.”
Read MoreWhen we are absent from someone we love, it is their face, not their arms, hands, or feet that we long to see. The face is what matters to us the most. When we are finally close enough to see their face, it is at that point when relief and joy combine together into a memorable and happy reunion. This is what the Psalmist longs for in a time of social distancing: to once again see the face of the God.
Read MoreWhen your children, grandchildren, disciples, or unbelieving friends or family ask you: Why did God allow the corona virus, what answer will you give them? How do we as followers of Jesus provide an explanation for such a widespread problem? Is there an answer? Does Scripture offer an explanation and hope as well? Sure does.
Read MorePracticing the Ebenezer Principle is not just for older folks in time of crisis or deep need. It is a timeless principle for all believers regardless of age or station in life. In fact, David, a young shepherd boy, overlooked by his dad, dismissed by his older brother, and doubted by the leader of the government, found that practicing the Ebenezer principle was just what he needed in a crisis. It worked for him And it will work for you as well.
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