All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). The first strokes of brush of the painter on the canvas are just as important...
As the calendar turns to December and the liturgical calendar turns to Advent, the lives of families of all shapes and sizes become increasingly busy. From midweek services to athletic practices and games to Christmas concerts, programs, and parties. If there is one activity that both the Scriptures and research...
“It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it.” Isaiah 2:1 My daughter texted me last spring a bit...
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 The end of the church year always directs the vision of the saints towards Jesus’ return in glory. With our eyes cast towards...
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 136:1 The familiar words of Psalm 136 have become a frequent refrain at kitchen tables for generations. Thanksgiving is more than just a day of the year. It is also more than just a...
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. Acts 8:1-2 The focus of...
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight.” Ephesians 1:7-8 The Great Depression began nearly ninety years ago with Black Tuesday, the Great Stock Market Crash of 1929. Though we are far removed...
Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. —Jude 3 There is a difference between a Christian’s faith and the Christian faith. A...
Walking Together The cities, towns and curves in the road where Missouri District congregations are found represent a significant geographic, cultural and ethnic diversity. From the prairie to the urban core, our congregations are located in quite varied places. In Kansas City and St. Louis, our congregations may be located...
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” Isaiah 52:7 On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed 95 Theses to the Castle Church door in Wittenberg. ...