I have always been fascinated with elevators. I do not remember my first ride in an elevator, but I know that I used to wonder how they worked (harrowing elevator scenes in action movies solved that for me). I noticed that some elevators lurch to a start and others jolt...

A mountaintop experience, spiritually speaking, draws us closer to Jesus, fills us with joy, and promotes a better perspective on the priorities of life. I believe Peter, James, and John had the first “mountaintop experience.” They were with Jesus at His transfiguration. Their hearts leapt for joy as their minds...

Being fully known and fully loved is one of the great experiences of life. So many people wander around fearing being known because they fear that might lead to not being loved. Our planet has become accustomed to the idea of love being doled out to that which is pleasing...

Celebrating the Resurrection is set against the sorrowful reality of the Cross. The depth of sorrow on Friday is a rich background for the skyrocketing joy of Sunday. I suggest that we stand at the foot of the Cross today as we prepare for Easter. Isaiah 53 is the most-quoted...

Past experiences often color our ability to anticipate goodness. I was fortunate as a child to have a great upbringing. There were triumphs, lots of space to play outside for hours, and a variety of friendships in the neighborhood, at church, and on ball teams. There were also knocks and...