One of the flaming missiles I frequently have to battle is my feeling of being totally imperfect and unworthy of God’s love. I doubt His ability to mold me and use me as He pleases.

How many followers of Jesus love life? I mean really love life, with palpable energy. Have you seen them? There are a few out there. I have met one or two. They are good people to be around. You feel encouraged. You feel safe. You actually really want what they have.

“Where is your brother?” God had asked him. Cain winced as he remembered his answer, which he had also tried to bury, but like his recurring nightmare, it didn’t stay buried because something deep within wouldn’t allow it. “I don’t know,” he replied. “Am I my brother’s keeper?”

When I was a young mom, a friend opened up my dusty bible and showed me that what Jesus had done on the cross two thousand years earlier was for me. Until that time, I hadn’t understood that heaven was a promise from God, guaranteed by His Son’s death.

Reading the Bible turns up some surprises. The biggest surprise for many is how accessible this book is to those who simply open it up and read it. Virtually anyone can read this Bible with understanding .

God’s word is personal address, inviting, commanding, challenging, rebuking, judging, comforting, directing—but not forcing. Not coercing. We are given space and freedom to answer, to enter the conversation.

The woman described in Proverbs 31 has been my mentor for many years. I have learned from her wholehearted example of living out her everyday life for God. The priority in this woman’s life is seen in verse 30 – her fear of God.

The Sabbath is defiance against function. It’s permission to waste time. It really is. It’s one day a week where God says, “Don’t do any work. Enjoy me. Enjoy food. Enjoy people. Prioritize relationships. Waste time .”

There’s an ancient idea that needs unearthing, but it’s buried under wars and breakfast dishes and the argument I had with my wife yesterday. It’s hidden beneath dusty beliefs and traditions that are now fraying at the edges.

If you were asked to describe Jesus using only one word, what would it be? Does such a word even exist? Would it be Savior? God? Shepherd? Companion? Rabbi? Wise? Honest?