Sin and Betrayal is Born in Weakness

Nobody who calls himself a Christian, sins ‘on purpose’ but out of weakness. We are tempted constantly. It is when we let our guard down that sin comes. Just when we think everything is ‘ok’ and we can take a break, temptation returns, and we sin. BRETHREN, no one born of God commits sin; for…

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Are You Watching for Christ?

Look both ways when you cross the street. Watch the sky for bad weather. If you live in the mountains, watch for falling rocks. We spend our time always watching out for something that can hurt us. Do we ever watch our surroundings for Christ? The Lord said to his disciples, “Heaven and earth will…

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Nobody is Safe from Temptation

Temptation Ahead sign

As Christians we are told that God will protect us from evil. We grow up knowing that God is watching over us. So then, why do so many leave the Church and walk in sin? Temptation is the great equalizer. The stronger our faith, the stronger the temptation. The Lord said to his disciples, “When…

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An End Brings a New Beginning

Dead end sign

As we wrap up the Triodion Period this week, our annual Lectionary is coming to an end. Beginning next week, we will read from the New Testament only on Saturdays and Sundays. The weekdays are reserved for Old Testament readings during the Great Fast. There are just a few more days to inspire us to…

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Episode 418 – Stop Keeping Score

People along with the priest worshiping in the church

It is so easy to list the sins of everyone around us. The prayer of the Pharisee was focused on the sins of others rather than his own sins. It was the prayer of the Publican who understood his need for God’s mercy. Being preoccupied with following the rules of the Church for the sake…

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Ready to Perform

You attend every practice as a devoted member of the team week after week. The team is up against the biggest and strongest team in the league. You see your name on the team rosters as ‘first string’ for the upcoming big game. You are so excited, but a little nervous. Will you be strong…

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Buddy Check!

Artwork of two red toy figures

We all remember being young at camp and excited for the adventures in the program. One of the most important tasks at the beginning of every camp experience was to identify our buddy. This wasn’t our friend, per se, but the person with whom we would share mutual responsibility. If our buddy was lost, we…

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Return to the Lord!

A statue of an angel blowing a trumpet

On the Wednesday of Cheese Fare, the week before the Great Fast, the character of the day is Lenten. Although we have not yet begun the Great Fast, we are fasting from meat today as we turn our attention more and more on God. The daily services today (and Friday this week) are Lenten. We…

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Trailers and Previews

We have grown accustomed to getting a sneak peak into the future every time we go the movies. Trailers have been a standard in the movie industry since the beginning. Trailers and previews are nice because we know what to expect when we get to the movie. The same is true in our spiritual life.…

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The Pain of Coming to Your Senses

In the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15.11-32), Jesus tells us of the journey of the youngest son of a father, who wants to go out on his own. He demands to collect his inheritance early and strikes out on his own. His father, loving and supportive, allows his son to leave the safety…

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