“If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15 ESV). The end. For such a simple statement, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments,” this verse is often exaggerated or ignored. Jesus has been reassuring the disciples as He approaches His impending death and resurrection. Part of that included encouragement — their knowledge of Him was their way to God (John 14:4–6). Those who believe in Him have the opportunity to do “greater works.” There is more to be sure, but we are influenced by daily challenges. Then I start to think, we don’t live in […]

Our similarities are very different. Which may seem peculiar, but I find myself saying that a lot over the last number of years because when you endeavor to constantly improve on good things, there is no need to reinvent the wheel, as it were.   I was never a fan of Frank Zappa. In fact, I didn’t like him or his music, but he was impactful in the music scene when I was young, and that was a major social avenue to what I hoped to pursue in some form. Zappa was credited with forming a band “Mothers.” As legend has it, the record […]

I grew up in a city of somebodies. Regardless of who you met or introduced, it was either proceeded or followed by a brief story. You see Stevie over there? His father is the guy you need to know if you want to get into Joe’s; he owns the place, no wait; you get a table immediately.  I guess it was a cultural thing? As a young guy I was fascinated by the paradigm of who you knew, which belied what you knew. Kinda like, “You’re going over to the Jordan River? Hook up with this guy John; he’s a Baptist […]

I find myself asking “why” a lot. Am I skeptical? Yes, I’m sure I am. But that’s my lifetime starting point. That’s my beginning. I generally don’t like to be questioned, but I question almost everything. Why is that? I say it brings me clarity, a focus if you will. At least that’s how I rationalize it.  But why do I not like being questioned? My reflex is, “You’re skeptical; are you sure you want to go down that road with me?” I’m learning not to trust my reflex, and I could attach appropriate scripture citing patience, tolerance and grace. […]