Perhaps mankind's greatest fear is the fear of the unknown. For this reason it is reasonable to say that life after death is not a normal dinner conversation among most families. With this in mind, it seems a bit odd that throughout the 2000 pages of God's inspired word, more is not said about this issue. Do humans not deserve to know what to expect from the future? Why is it that more clear detail is not given about heaven and hell?
One of the most necessary challenges that a man or woman of God must undertake is to seek answers. Luke sets an incredible example to the believers by being an investigator of our Messiah. This is significant because it is very likely that Luke was not actually an eye witness of Christ's ministry (1:1-4). In his gospel's prologue, Luke states that he has "carefully investigated everything from the beginning (1:3)." Luke's investigation of the life of Christ certainly gives his gospel a unique perspective. Perhaps for this reason, the gospel of Luke is such an intimate look into the human nature of Jesus Christ as he lived on this earth.
It is that time of year again. The time of year when people begin to put away the winter clothes, and begin to introduce the new summer wardrobe. (Well for some people, for me my attire doesn't change much, I wear a shirt and tie while working, and shorts and a t-shirt when I'm not, no matter the time of year). Commercials fill the air with ads to get yourself into shape for summer, or have the perfect bikini body.
No one wields a more profound influence on one's life than a mother. She is the one who brings us into the world, first by prayer (1 Samuel 1:10-11, 17-20, 27-28) and second by physical birth (John 16:21). Mother is the one who first holds us and cares for us. She sings, reads, and shares God's word as she points the way to God. Her life is a constant example of the Christian woman. Her faith in God, Dad, and us make her the pillar of our life.
On a recent trip to the Big Bend area of Texas, we visited the Stillwell ranch. Carved out of the desert Southwest mountains, water is always at a premium. Riding the range, Roy Stillwell mentioned to his Mexican ranch hand that the spot they were standing on would be an ideal place for a dam if only they had the needed materials. The elderly man mentioned that this would be no problem; he could make what was needed.
