When diving into the realm of Jewish literature, the term “Midrash” frequently surfaces. To the uninitiated, the Midrash might seem like a complex, inaccessible body of work. However, a closer look reveals its intrinsic value in interpreting, understanding, and connecting with the scriptures. What is Midrash? The word “Midrash” comes […]
Faithfulness to Jesus: Standing at Odds with Some Organized Religions
The teachings and life of Jesus Christ have always been transformative and, at times, confrontational. Throughout His ministry, Jesus frequently found Himself at odds with the religious authorities and the popular beliefs of His day. Similarly, true discipleship in today’s age might mean facing tension between Jesus’s teachings and contemporary […]
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Finding Solid Ground in God: An Exegesis of Psalm 61:2
In the midst of our chaotic lives, with challenges that sometimes seem insurmountable, there’s a verse in Psalm 61 that offers solace and guidance. Today, I’d like to draw our attention to Psalm 61:2 from the NRSV Updated Edition: “From the end of the earth, I call to you, when […]
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Listening to Understand: A Christian Pastor’s Perspective
As we navigate the waters of relationships, community building, and discipleship, we as Christians are often reminded of the value of listening. In James 1:19, we are told, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” Yet, how often do we truly heed this […]
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The True Meaning of “Neighbor”: Embracing the Marginalized through Christian Love
In our daily lives, the term ‘neighbor’ often draws a picture of someone living next door, the family two houses down, or perhaps the couple across the hall in an apartment building. However, within the expansive realm of Christian teachings, the idea of a ‘neighbor’ is far more profound. It […]
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Understanding Homosexuality Through First Century Culture: A Pastor’s Perspective
Throughout the centuries, scripture has been interpreted, reinterpreted, and molded to fit the cultural norms and values of each new generation. As we journey through our own understanding of scripture, it’s essential to remember the cultural context in which it was written. In doing so, we can truly grasp the […]
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God’s Own Breath: a poem about the “Ruach Hakodesh”
In the vast expanse, before time took its breadth,Hovered a force, God’s own manifest breath.The Ruach Hakodesh, not just tales of the old,But a living Spirit, stories untold. From ancient scrolls, to our heartbeat’s quest,It’s the whisper in the wind, the surge in your chest.Before mountains stood tall, or stars […]
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Understanding “Ruach Hakodesh” in Our Walk with God
For anyone delving deeper into the spiritual and theological aspects of their faith, the term “Ruach Hakodesh” is not merely a foreign term but a foundational concept within the Judeo-Christian tradition. It provides profound insights into God’s interaction with humanity. Let’s explore what “Ruach Hakodesh” is and why it’s essential […]
