This time of year everyone has a list. We want to make sure we have everything needed and required for a new school year. This simple list from the prophet Micah has stood the test of time. It should be part of every Christian’s ongoing supply list. It is part of how we participate in God’s desire for a world of common good.

Many of the controversies in the Church today can trace their roots back to Biblical interpretation. It is important to know what is in the Bible. It is just as important to know what we believe about the Bible. What does it mean to take the Bible seriously? Does it mean you have to take it literally? How can the Bible be an essential tool for living a life of faith?

When the light bulb goes on and inspiration occurs a new possibility is born. We are no longer trapped by what we don’t have. Instead we are energized by the amazing potential of God’s abundance. This is the genius of generosity. When we practice generosity, the world is a much brighter place.

What does it mean to be blessed by God? What happens when we think this blessing is some kind of divine favor contest? Is #blessed just another way of bragging; or worse, hiding the deep flaws in our lives. Maybe an ancient benediction holds the key to keeping our blessings in their proper perspective.

The birth of Christ is viewed today through a variety of perspectives. Some see it as a season of parties and over-indulgence. Some see it as a hectic exercise in consumerism. Some see it as the most depressing time of the year. Is this what God intends? What would happen if we viewed the incarnation of God as an opportunity to see the world in a whole new way.

We love stories of action and heroism. We are dazzled by tales like Star Wars, Justice League, and other Super Hero stories. The Gospel of Mark depicts Jesus in just this way. His story starts with a cape but it ends at the cross. What does it mean for us to become a part of Christ’s story as his followers? Where are we in the great adventure of “the greatest story ever told”?

Lent presents us with an opportunity to look in the mirror and see ourselves as we really are. It is easier to turn away and deny our reality and mortality. Jesus set his face toward Jerusalem and in doing so brought about the salvation of the world. When we face this truth; it does indeed set us free.

We don’t know who to believe anymore. We are told the most trusted news sources could be full of made up tales. In this respect, we are similar to Jesus’ Disciples who struggled to hear the news of Christ’s resurrection with confidence and joy. Through faith, we learn the truth of the God who is too good to not be true. This is what makes Easter more than just a day. It turns us into Easter people
with a worldview of resurrection