In John15:1,2 Jesus gives us a powerful picture about life with Him. He says, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” This is one of the famous “I am” statements in the gospel of John where Jesus is basically making a deity claim. The “I am” part...

A NEW YEAR IS COMING!Christmas is over, a new year is almost here. Many take some time as the yearends to evaluate where they are and where they want to be a year from now. Some callthis process making new year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, most of us struggle with thefollow through. We start the new Bible reading plan, we join a gym. We try a newhobby but by the end of January many of these good ...

In Luke 2 an angel shares with the shepherds about Jesus, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born, He is the Messiah, the Lord." (Luke 2:10,11).Jesus carries many names and titles but the three mentioned by the angel reveal the heart of His mission. First is Savior. Jesus saves us from our sins. This S...

The negativity of our culture can be overwhelming at times, but Christians are calledto be light. Light is about sharing the truth. Let’s focus on the light of truth we are toshare.Christianity teaches that we are the special, intentional creation of the one trueloving God. We are made by Him in His image (Genesis 1:27). Whatever our race,educational or economic level, we are all profoundly valuab...

     It has been said that we live in an “Eeyore culture.”  Sadness and depression permeate America today.  It’s not surprising when most are feeding on a steady diet of news and media focused on scandal, division, and disaster.  In contrast, Christians are to be marked by joy.  Joy is even listed as one of the defining virtues of a Christian (Galatians 5:22,23). The Scripture says, “Blessed (Happ...