Learning Essentialism | February 22, 2016
We clutter our lives with all sorts of complications, filling our schedules and our homes with things that will have no lasting impact. While reading today's scripture, I was reminded that Jesus was an Essentialist.

Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. These were his instructions:“Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town.
Mark 6:7-10, NIV

Missing The Miracle | February 23, 2016
Is it possible to see Jesus do incredible things in our lives over many days, weeks, and years and still have our hearts hardened? Of course. So what do we do in these times?

Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.
Mark 6:50b-52, NIV

A Passion For God's Glory | February 24, 2016
There is something in the heart of every Christ follower that longs for a greater revelation of the Lord. Instead of pursuing God themselves, they trade their personal experience for a vicarious one. Like watching the Discovery channel, they never get off the couch and take a walk in the woods.

Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.”
Exodus 33:18, NIV

Unconventional Ministry | February 25, 2016
I often tell people that Jesus wasn't/isn't weird. He was the most normal person who ever walked the planet. However, this ministry episode may be seen in a different light. Here Jesus is doing something completely unconventional. I am sure He could heal Him with a touch or even without one. Why did He choose this unconventional approach?

After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue.
Mark 7:33, NIV