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Ivan Kramskoi, "Christ in the Desert," 1872 (oil on canvas) The journey of Lent begins with attention on Jesus. We trace His pathway through incarnate life to death on the Cross. One of the first inklings we have in the Gospels that Jesus' life will bring salvation at a great cost comes in the prophetic …
Continue reading "Beginning Lent with Jesus :: Ivan Kramskoi, “Christ in the Desert”"
I call on you, my God, for you will answer me;turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.Show me the wonders of your great love,you who save by your right handthose who take refuge in you from their foes. (Psalm 17:6-7)Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; …
Continue reading "What is the Way to Real Life?: renunciation and realization with Jesus Christ"
Sin and forgiveness. We deal with these things daily. Perhaps one of the most painful and difficult times is when we deal with sin and the need for forgiveness within the church. It seems that as followers of Christ we should understand these topics and live accordingly. Christianity is known as a faith marked by …
Continue reading "Dealing with Sin in the Church: Notes from Matthew 18"
Ron Dicianni, "Simeon's Moment" 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”[a]), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping …
The Lord is gracious and compassionate,slow to anger and rich in love.The Lord is good to all;he has compassion on all he has made. (Psalm 145:8-9) In the stillness, I come to a place of quiet before You, my God. May the wonders of Your presence meet me this morning, Lord. My eyes are on …
Continue reading "What Love Is This?: a prayer reflection on Psalm 145"
Matthew Erickson 