Chapter 5: Sacrifice They meandered through the bustling town of Sidon in peace. Judith was still stunned to think she had encountered a god and lived, so she had traveled along in silence. On the outskirts of town, Judith’s gaze moved to the Mediterranean, its shimmering waters sparkling in the afternoon sun lifted her spirits some. She felt humbled that any god would stop and talk to people, let alone her. She was not deserving. With minimal religious inclination, she... Read more
I don’t know. I don’t use labels and prefer descriptions that can grow or change, over definitions that can’t grow and become arrows to stab others because you hate them. I read a lot of progressives that I don’t agree with, and criticism of them is fair. I’m sure many don’t agree with me, and criticism of me is fair-it shows you’re thinking. I read one very biased article that said progressives demote Jesus. That article thinks that salvation is... Read more
What would we give up to save our socks? A parable of Mars In 2065, a group of business people decide to terraform Mars to exploit its resources and make it habitable. The plan was good. They would plant foliage that turned the 95% carbon dioxide in the atmosphere into oxygen that people could breathe. They would pump water from deep within the planet for people’s water needs and create lakes for food and recreation. Various animal species would also... Read more
Chapter 4: The Law Silence hung heavy in the air as they walked on, broken only by the clop clop of their sandals on the rock road. Judith, her head bowed, wrestled with a tempest of emotions. Shame burned in her cheeks at the memory of her brother-in-law’s harsh words. The encounter with the other Jews still sent shivers down her spine. Fear battled with a flicker of curiosity. How can Jews be so different? Those following Jesus exude kindness... Read more
The Bible covers everything from creation of the earth to destruction. It includes wiping out entire civilizations, invasions of other countries in the name of God, miracles, religion that ignores prophets in exchange for legal opinions and ceremony, and changes in contracts with God. The Jews had contracts (covenants) with God. The most recent contract is love, ushered in by Jesus. Why would people not be perplexed as to what it all means? Reference scripture “So every good tree bears... Read more
Chapter 3: Conflict Judith image by Meta, enhanced by Dorian Cole The afternoon sun cast long shadows as the group reached the outskirts of Tyre. The city, a bustling metropolis of commerce and culture, lay nestled against the Mediterranean. At night, its lights twinkled like stars reflected in the water. Exhaustion mingled with anticipation as they entered the city gates. The clamor of voices, the pungent aroma of spices, and the vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds overwhelmed Judith’s senses.... Read more
“I am what I am, and that’s all that I am. I’m Popeye the Sailor Man.” – Popeye Reflections Argh! I wonder if I can ever be a better person. This week was bruising, both literally and figuratively. We all think we’re good until things start going wrong. Then lookout. “I tell you, in this world, being a little crazy helps to keep you sane.” – Zsa Zsa Gabor on BrainyQuote.com Bible reference: “… if the power of sin within... Read more
This story highlights Christian values, emphasizing the teachings of Jesus. Chapter 2: Christian advantage Judith image by Meta, enhanced by Dorian Cole Despite the harsh sleeping environment just feet off the road, Judith woke feeling refreshed and excited about the people she was with. She brushed leaves and sticks from her plain brown robe, then shifted her body inside the robe to untwist the long chemise undergarment that had wrapped itself around her waist during the night. She discreetly perused... Read more
Generation Z tends to ignore religion, which many feel is toxic and the cause of many problems. They aren’t wrong. With megaphones, some Christians condemn everyone and everything, and terrorists kill in the name of God. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” – John 14:27 I wish that religion could tell... Read more
What did Jesus really teach? It’s difficult to know except through the twelve apostles, because the first five books of the New Testament are about Jesus’ mission to the Jews, not to non-Jews. Similarities and significant differences exist. Forgiveness and love are the uniting themes. One way of exploring this is fiction based on fact. Storytelling is something I do, with over 20 fiction and nonfiction books available (see the end notes). Based on fact: This is what stories are... Read more
Select your answer to see how you score.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In