God – Page 2 – Signora Sheila

The Secret to Praying Without Ceasing

Woman seen from behind holding a cup of coffee in a lush forest, her long wavy hair and backpack creating a peaceful, contemplative mood.

Pray without ceasing. That seems like an impossible task, doesn’t it? While it is often said that Paul only meant that we should maintain a constant attitude of prayer, he undoubtedly also meant that we should pray much more than we already do. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this isContinueContinue reading “The Secret to Praying Without Ceasing”

Lessons on Surrender from Mount Moriah

Silhouetted woman stands in a calm lake at sunset, arms outstretched, with a dark pine forest and pink clouds reflected in the water.

Moriah means “chosen by God” and it was a holy place that was special to Him. God had his temple built there. He also sent King David there to offer sacrifices after David sinned by taking a census (1 Chronicles 21). Counting the people seemed like a minor offense, but David did it out of pride.ContinueContinue reading “Lessons on Surrender from Mount Moriah”

Taxation in Bible Times

Historical market objects on a woven mat: counting board, coins, leather pouches, pottery jars, rolled scrolls, and rustic tools evoke trade.

Poll tax, salt tax, and crown tax! Wherever they went, along major highways, at city gates, or along quiet country roads, the Israelites encountered the tax booth. The main symbol of foreign domination, and that which most stirred their indignation. Foreign taxation was nothing new to them, but the unscrupulous dealings of the Roman tax-farmers andContinueContinue reading “Taxation in Bible Times”

We Were All Lost Sheep

A lone sheep stands in silhouette in a dark field, centered against a glowing sunset and orange horizon, creating a peaceful, dramatic mood.

All kinds of people crowded around Christ, and he never turned them away. No matter what they were like, or who they were, he was ready to receive them. Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomesContinueContinue reading “We Were All Lost Sheep”

The Amazement of the Incarnation

White dove flying with wings fully spread, soft feathers glowing against a pale blue background; red feet visible, creating a peaceful mood.

Francis Junius, a 15th century theologian, once gave an account of his first reading of John chapter 1. He said “he observed such a divinity in the argument, such an authority and majesty in the style, that his flesh trembled, and he was struck with such amazement that for a whole day he scarcely knewContinueContinue reading “The Amazement of the Incarnation”

The Father Abraham Mystery Walk

Family walking hand in hand along a sunlit path at sunset, with parents guiding their young daughter; warm, peaceful, hopeful atmosphere.

Have you ever taken a Mystery Walk? I have, and we all take them every day. Because when we get right down to it, life is a mystery. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, or even if we’ll have any tomorrows. And sometimes it’s hard to know which path to take, let alone explain itContinueContinue reading “The Father Abraham Mystery Walk”