Life's Inanities and Ironies

Today, I want us to journey into a part of our spiritual heritage that, while distinct, offers profound insights into the very heart of our Christian faith. We’re going to explore the Jewish High Holy Days, particularly what are known as the “Days of Awe.” Now, some of you might be thinking, "Why are we looking at Jewish traditions? We are followers of Jesus, the Messiah!" And that's a vital question. Indeed, we are Christians, believing that Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets. However, as Paul so eloquently reminds us in Romans 11, we are "wild olive shoots grafted into the cultivated olive tree" of Israel. Our faith doesn't exist in a vacuum; it has deep, rich roots in God's ancient covenant with His people. By understanding these roots, we gain a fuller, more vibrant appreciation for the salvation we have in Christ. Rosh Hashanah: The Day of Judgment and Remembrance The Days of Awe, or Yamim Nora'im in Hebrew, are a ten-day period that begin...

For many, the struggle with lust and addiction is a deeply personal and isolated battle. It's often waged in silence, hidden in the dark and fueled by shame. The silence in our culture and even within the church can lead us to believe we are alone in our sin—that our struggle is unique or unforgivable. This profound sense of isolation and brokenness often creates a cycle of guilt and despair, where the very shame of the sin prevents us from seeking help or experiencing God's grace. This article is not an act of condemnation, but a pastoral call to freedom. It is an invitation to move from the darkness of secrecy into the light of the Lord. The core message is one of grace and forgiveness, offering the assurance that while sin is a serious matter, you have not committed an unforgivable sin. The ultimate purpose is not to punish but to provide a path to sanctification and a life of purity and freedom. The journey is about transformation, and it is grounded in the truth that God c...