The Branch in the OT and Revelation
By Chad Sanders Have you ever seen a new sprout grow from the stump of a tree that was cut down? Certain deciduous trees, shrubs, and vines will re-sprout once they are cut. Rose bushes, oak trees, maples, and may other species will grow new shoots from roots or from the stump after a disturbance. In the prophetic books of the Old Testament, the authors will refer to a...
Keep ReadingThe Flicker of the Holy Spirit
Candles have long been used as a figurative expression for the Holy Spirit's presence. Throughout church history, certain church traditions lit candles to signify the presence of the Holy Spirit within the space. The bouncing, burning light off of the wick can be a reminder to us that although we cannot see Him, the Holy Spirit inhabits believers, igniting a type of fire...
Keep ReadingBaptism is Life... But It's Also Death
I am approaching my ten year baptism anniversary. I was baptized at the age of thirteen on a beautiful, warm, sunny Easter day. Even at that young of an age, I fully comprehended the commitment and testimony that baptism entailed, and I was excited. I was excited to share my testimony in front of my visiting family members, my church family, and all the guests that attende...
Keep ReadingThe Repentant and Mourning Heart
"Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is near!" These are the words of John the Baptist as he heralded the coming of Christ in Matthew 3. As he proclaimed, Jesus was preparing for His life changing ministry that continues today. While He is no longer here in bodily form, He continues to work on our behalf for salvation and ushering in the Kingdom of God. Those words of Joh...
Keep ReadingThe Embodiment of Heaven
From Eden to eternity, humanity was created by God to dwell secure with Him. We were created to worship Him in His manifest, constant presence with nothing getting in the way of us seeing Him in all His righteous glory. God is the embodiment of heaven, and we were created to behold. Throughout history, in His grace God designed a direct pathway to His beloved creation ...
Keep ReadingHospital Hospitality and its Lesson for the Church
My husband Nate serves food at a hospital. He prepares trays of chicken salad, macaroni and cheese, stir fry, or a questionable beverage for those on a "liquid diet." They call down to the kitchen to order what they want, my husband makes sure it is compatible with their diet, arranges it on a tray, and delivers it with a smile. (And lots of jokes - this is my husband we a...
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