Christ’s descent to wash the disciples’ feet foreshadows his greater descent to the cross, where cleansing would be accomplished once for all.

We need to have the gospel developed in our hearts and minds and reading books is a noble means to that end.

God didn’t only gift Zechariah with silence; he gifted him with anticipation…His words, moving from doubt to tentative hope, were given inwardly to God alone, who knew his heart better than he did.

There are so many things we don’t understand. I have to confess that I still find God’s ways confusing at times. But here’s what I do understand: God may not explain himself, but he always gives himself.

Hope rooted in Christ doesn’t pretend things aren’t hard. It looks right at the pain and still stands.

This Christmas season, we need nothing more than to see the meaning of the manger. It offers a sure and certain knowledge that he knows, that he cares, that he saves, and that he will be with us through to the very end, right on into eternity.

Did you catch that? God specifically gives us insight into his will, and right there in his will is this simple phrase: “give thanks in all circumstances.”

The voices that influence us most must do more than say beautiful things. They should be from people who live beautiful lives.

As we imitate Christ, we pray that our children do the same. Not from shame. Not from guilt. But for the glory of God.

There is ultimately hope knowing that one day, because of Christ, the reality of death and its sting here on earth will be gone. This battle we face with our children, while very urgent, is momentary in light of Christ’s victory.

Jesus has brought you near when you were once far away from God, and in Christ, God is making all things new, including your posture toward others.

Keeping Christ at the center of our relationships and adoration enables us to live well in both solitude and community.