By Dr. Mark Scott Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life” (English Standard Version). Who has not known the agony of waiting? Waiting seems like forever. But a laser focus on a strong goal helps us endure any delay. That is what Jacob found […]
By Dr. Mark Scott Generous gifts and humble deeds sharply contrast with shrunken hearts and hypocritical actions. Today’s lesson shows that contrast in neon lights. The antagonists in the Gospels (the Pharisees, who were actually greatly respected) contrast sharply with a humble widow who made a most generous gift at the temple. Having just come […]
By Dr. Mark Scott There is an old downward spiral to sin that goes like this: If you hesitate, you will contemplate; if you contemplate, you will negotiate; if you negotiate, you will participate; and if you participate, you will desecrate. But maybe we could say that with the coming of Christ in his incarnation, […]
By Dr. Mark Scott Someone rightly said, “Exodus is about getting God’s people out of Egypt while Leviticus is about getting the Egypt out of God’s people.” How were God’s people supposed to act once they left Egypt? Leviticus held the answer, and it was “in holiness.” The third book of the Bible may not […]
By Dr. Mark Scott A certain workaholic said, “Thank God it’s Monday.” But even the most aggressive workaholic needs rest. Out of eternity God carved time and made days, weeks, months, seasons, and years. Habit is a great liberator—learning the rhythms of God gives proper pacing to our lives. One sacred tradition that God gave […]
