John and Steph's Houston Mission

  The Prophet Isaiah Writes About the Birth of Jesus Christ In the first chapter of the Old Testament book of Isaiah, God calls to the people of Israel Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. ( Isa 1:16-20 ) There are many things that I love about these verses. Among them is the invitation "Come now, and let us reason together." It is not unlike a parent sitting down to talk things over with a struggling teenager. "Let's think about this. Let's look at the situation ...

A little something from 40+ years ago, written while sitting on the floor of a basketball court as a callow missionary in Lake Placid, New York as I pondered on the immense gratitude I felt for the experiences I had between August 1983 and November 1985. It was then that God taught me that I was not some lost and forgotten soul, a meaningless cipher in a dark and cold universe. Instead, I mattered to Him and I determined to be a disciple. Although I've been an imperfect one, the purpose has been the primary theme and rationale for my life, my raison d'etre.  I know that you matter to Him, too. Slow down, listen, and let your heart soften enough to really hear Him! Then come and see.  As I entered into the castle of the great and mighty King, To be with my friends and family, to laugh and dance and sing, I found them waging a bloody war with axe and spear and sword. Their hearts were filled with bitter hate; I watched without a word, Then looked around to see if I could find a...

 The dawning of a new year is traditionally a time for people to reflect on the past and make resolutions for the future. It is in that spirit that I offer this post. In order to make meaningful resolutions, it is important to first think about one's priorities. What is most important to you? What motivates you? Where do you want to go? What do you want to become and then to accomplish - not only in the coming year, but in the long-term? Answering such questions honestly can reveal much to oneself. It can help you also focus on what tenets, philosophies, approaches, and actions will bring you the greatest return on your investment toward achieving your desired ends. It is, of course, my hope that anyone reading this has goals and heart-felt desires that are truly good, not merely for self, but for their families, friends and all people the world over. And to that end, I would propose that one consider some of the suggested priorities listed in scripture.  Perhaps the most impo...