Tag Archives: John the Baptist

Anticipation in Advent – learning from those who waited first

Posted on December 11, 2017 by

[For Advent: updated from the archives.] Before the birth of Jesus there were those who lived in the anticipation of his coming, people who knew prophecies such as this: “I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all … Continue reading →

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God’s Tenderness – explosive and overwhelming

Posted on July 7, 2017 by

[From the archives.] Tenderness, noun: expressing warm, affectionate feelings; being kind and merciful; possessing gentle and delicate qualities; providing care and protectiveness. (Dictionary.com.) Explosive Tenderness Otis Redding took the word tenderness and turned it on its head. It’s not that … Continue reading →

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John’s Head and Jesus’ Bread – a tale of two parties

Posted on May 15, 2017 by

Matthew 14 tells of Herod’s gruesome birthday party and Jesus’ desire to get away from it all. It starts with Herod: On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much that he promised … Continue reading →

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Experiencing Advent with Those Who Were There

Posted on December 2, 2016 by

[For Advent: updated from the archives.] Anticipation Christmas carols. They’re all over. From the radio to shopping malls and even in churches. Yes, I said even in churches. We sing about the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, angels proclaiming and shepherds … Continue reading →

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Jesus and the Mystery of the Third Cousin, Twice Removed

Posted on July 25, 2016 by

Jesus and John the Baptist were related through their mothers. What was the exact relationship between them all? Good question. More on that later. First, let’s note that yesterday was Cousins Day (a holiday celebrated every July 24, apparently). Happy … Continue reading →

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Advent With The People Who Welcomed Jesus First

Posted on December 11, 2015 by

[From the archives.] Anticipation Christmas carols. They’re all over. From the radio to shopping malls and even in churches. Yes, I said even in churches. We sing about the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, angels proclaiming and shepherds watching and a … Continue reading →

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The Explosive Power of Gospel Tenderness

Posted on June 12, 2015 by

[From the archives, in honor of Black Music Month.] Tenderness, noun: expressing warm, affectionate feelings; being kind and merciful; possessing gentle and delicate qualities; providing care and protectiveness. (Dictionary.com.) Otis Redding took the word tenderness and turned it on its … Continue reading →

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The Cross of Jesus Divides Everything in Two

Posted on November 14, 2014 by

[Updated from the archives.] *** Stand in the place where you live Now face north Think about direction Wonder why you haven’t before (Stand, lyrics by Michael Stipe, performed by R.E.M.) Goofy dancing aside, this isn’t bad advice (and please … Continue reading →

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Try A Little Tenderness – Otis Redding sings the gospel truth

Posted on August 13, 2013 by

Tenderness, noun: expressing warm, affectionate feelings; being kind and merciful; possessing gentle and delicate qualities; providing care and protectiveness. (Dictionary.com.) Otis Redding took the word tenderness and turned it on its head. It’s not that he changed the definition. It’s … Continue reading →

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The Anticipation of Christ – it’s not what people expected

Posted on December 21, 2012 by

[This post appeared at Aimee Byrd’s place on December 13, 2011. Blessed Advent and Merry Christmas to you all.] Anticipation Christmas carols. They’re all over. From the radio to shopping malls and even in churches. Yes, I said even in … Continue reading →

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