How We Embody Joy
Joy blooms uniquely in each life — quiet and subtle in some, exuberant and radiant in others. Like an invasive seed, joy resists control, spreading beyond our expectations and into the lives of those around us. Whether shaped by culture, personality or faith, joy stirs a longing for something eternal, reminding us that her laughter of the heart is not ours to tame but to share.
Tony Campolo: Evangelist to the evangelicals
Tony Campolo’s life was a sermon — one that proclaimed “good news to the poor” in both word and deed. A fiery preacher and sharp sociologist, he bridged the divide between evangelical faith and social justice, reminding countless audiences of Jesus’ call to liberate the oppressed. From his iconic “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming” message to co-founding Red Letter Christians, Tony’s legacy is a gospel lived boldly, for the least of these.
A Word To America: Peace And Be Still
In the wake of an election deepening national divides, the call to trust God grows clearer. Political storms may rage, but God never panics. He wasn’t surprised by the results, and his peace remains unshaken. As citizens of heaven, we’re invited to anchor our faith in him, knowing his kingdom will outlast every earthly trouble.
What’s It Like Inside a Trappist Monastery?
What does life inside a Trappist monastery offer to those of us on the outside? In “A Matter of the Heart,” Brother Paul Quenon shares over 50 years of journal entries from his quiet life of prayer and contemplation. With a poet’s touch, he reflects on life’s mysteries and a spiritual calling shaped by solitude, stillness and the pursuit of inner peace — insights that resonate well beyond the cloister.
Creation, Fall, Redemption — And Your Money
How do creation, fall and redemption shape our view of money? For Christians, money isn’t just a tool; it’s a sacred trust and a test of faith. From recognizing God’s ownership to navigating the pitfalls of greed and embracing the joy of giving, finances become a means to serve God’s purposes, calling us to steward resources wisely and generously for a greater good.
Who Are Your Enemies?
Who’s the hardest person for you to pray for? Jesus’ command to love our enemies calls us to face those who’ve hurt or frustrated us with kindness and mercy. Moving beyond resentment isn’t easy, but every choice to forgive and show love brings us closer to living as God intended. This path transforms not just others, but also ourselves, inviting us into a deeper, faith-filled life.
Will ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ be a Christian crossover miracle?
Dallas Jenkins’ latest film, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” lands amid political tension but aims for something deeper than headlines. With backing from Christian media giants and Hollywood talent, Jenkins hopes to craft a crossover Christmas classic. Based on Barbara Robinson’s beloved novel, the film brings to life a message of unity, kindness and fresh perspectives on faith — timely reminders in an era of division. Will it bridge audiences this season?
T. S. Eliot: A Poet’s Quest for Faith in a Disillusioned World
Step into T. S. Eliot’s world, where poetry meets the profound struggles of faith in a fractured society. Eliot’s works, from “The Waste Land” to “Four Quartets,” wrestle with spiritual crises and enduring questions of belief, redemption and meaning. For readers seeking wisdom in a disillusioned age, his verses resonate deeply, offering both solace and a challenge to view faith through a new, introspective lens.
Augustine Can Offer Wisdom on Our Political and Cultural Division
As we face deepening political and cultural divides, Augustine of Hippo’s ancient wisdom offers a surprising path forward. Drawing on his experiences in a fragmented Roman Empire, Augustine sought peace through shared values, civic harmony and mutual respect. Today, his insights on building common ground — while acknowledging differences — remind us that, even in times of conflict, unity is possible when we focus on our common good.
Posthumous Wiersbe Devotional Joins Author’s Storied Body Of Work
A newly discovered manuscript from Warren Wiersbe offers readers a fresh journey into God’s Word, crafted with care by his grandson, Dan Jacobsen. In “Becoming New,” this 100-day devotional distills Wiersbe’s legacy of biblical insight into clear, transformative reflections, accessible for both lifelong believers and new followers of Christ.
The Beloveds and a Conversation
Sitting at my son’s old desk, I reflect on life’s deep questions and find myself asking God about the purpose of love and existence. In the quiet, I feels an answer beyond words — an understanding that love is at the core, immeasurable and constant. It is in these moments of connection that I find rest, knowing I am cherished, held by a love that chooses me, always.
Time Really Does Stand Still
What if time as we know it only began with creation? Imagine God in a timeless eternity, not bound by moments as we are. Augustine and modern thinkers like McGilchrist point to a paradox where time’s mystery nudges us closer to understanding God’s nature — an eternity that is neither past nor future, just the endless present. This insight may reshape how we perceive our place in creation.
Election 2024: Let’s Show a Little More Love
As Election 2024 stirs up passionate divides, a grounded reminder surfaces: those with opposing views are still our neighbors, our friends and part of our shared community. In a season often clouded by hostility, there’s strength in choosing kindness over bitterness. What if a little more kindness — and a little less bitterness — could keep us grounded and united, no matter the election’s outcome?
Learning to Hear God: Two Listening Exercises
Imagine hearing God’s voice with clarity and feeling His guidance in the rhythms of your day. Through simple practices like crafting a personal “Beloved Charter” and learning to listen in a deeper way, you’re invited to experience a more intimate connection with him. These steps can shift how you experience his presence, offering a sense of peace and direction —right where you are, right now.
Making Theological Decisions Scenes in ‘The Chosen'
“The Chosen” blends faith and creativity in ways that challenge viewers to see the Gospels from a fresh perspective. Theological experts play a key role in shaping the show’s portrayal of Jesus, guiding the balance between biblical accuracy and storytelling. A look behind the scenes reveals how carefully crafted moments invite viewers to engage more deeply with familiar stories.
‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ Wrestles With The Right Questions
When forgiveness feels impossible, how do we move forward? ‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ follows an artist as he confronts the pain of reconciling with his estranged father, raising questions about trauma, healing and redemption. With stunning imagery and a heartfelt narrative, the film challenges the boundaries of forgiveness and whether it always leads to reconciliation. It’s a story that asks you to reflect on your own relationships and what it takes to truly forgive.
Life to the Full
Listening to God’s voice can transform everything. Israel, once an orphan on the streets of Tijuana, found his life’s purpose through an unexpected encounter. His story reveals how hearing God shapes our identity and leads us toward a life of meaning and fulfillment. Are you open to hearing him? God’s voice invites us into the fullness of life we were made for — if we’re willing to listen.
Experience God More Intimately: A Primer on James Finley
Uncover the transformative teachings of James Finley — a former Trappist monk mentored by Thomas Merton — who bridges ancient wisdom with modern life to help you experience God’s presence more intimately. Dive into our exploration of Finley’s life and work to discover how his insights can enrich your own spiritual journey.
'Surprised By Joy': Understanding The Void
C.S. Lewis once dismissed myths as beautiful but meaningless until a conversation with J.R.R. Tolkien shifted his perspective. What Lewis discovered is something we’ve lost in modern Western Christianity — a sense of the mythological background that brings spiritual depth to our understanding of life. Without it, we live in a void, disconnected from the wonder that once permeated our world. Rediscovering that lost perspective could change everything.
God Forgiving is God Forgetting
When God forgives, he doesn’t hold on to the past, like many of us have been taught. His forgiveness transforms us, allowing us to release grudges and extend grace to others. As we experience God’s complete forgiveness, we are shaped into people who forgive with the same freedom. This is the power of living in his grace — learning to let go and forgive as we’ve been forgiven.