When Christ came on the scene, it was in a time of hatred, faction, and division. Judaism was divided into three factions: the middle-class Pharisees, the rich aristocratic Sadducees, and the Essenes, who had taken vows of poverty. All three of these groups disliked each other and looked down on the Galileans, whom they regardedContinueContinue reading “Jews and Gentiles in the Time of Christ”
Tag Archives: acceptance
When the Way is Blocked
No one likes roadblocks or delays. We prefer to do what we want and go where we want. But sometimes we find roadblocks in our way, and frustration sets in. Or irritation, anger, resignation, sadness. Disappointment can bring a whole range of emotions. And we wish for a bulldozer to clear the way. I’ve hitContinueContinue reading “When the Way is Blocked”
Through the Eyes of a Child
One day, while watching an old Andy Griffith episode my 6-year-old grandson piped up with a question. “Why don’t they want that man to sing, Nonna? He sings real good!” That man was Rafe Hollister who, with his golden singing voice, had entered, and won, the singing contest held by the local Ladies’ Society. ButContinueContinue reading “Through the Eyes of a Child”
The Religious Climate in Christ’s Time
The rabbis of Christ’s day proudly regarded Judea, with its traditional learning and religious academies, as superior to the northern regions of Israel. A sentiment that they expressed with the following saying. “If anyone wants to be rich, let him go north (to Galilee); if he wants to be wise, let him come south (toContinueContinue reading “The Religious Climate in Christ’s Time”
Forever Changed: A Short Story
She walked a lonely road, a water jar on her shoulder, that Samaritan woman. In the hottest part of the day she made the way, her solitary way, to the village well. Only after the others had returned to their own homes did she venture out. They did not welcome her company. No more than she,ContinueContinue reading “Forever Changed: A Short Story”
The Mixed Blessings of Missionary Life Overseas
We are celebrating 30 years of being in Italy this month! Although our years here have not always been easy, we would choose this path again in a heartbeat. It’s been a good life, and we have seen God’s faithfulness throughout. Joy with sorrow Life overseas is a mixture of joy and sorrow. Being unableContinueContinue reading “The Mixed Blessings of Missionary Life Overseas”