When the nativity story is told, we mostly hear about Mary, the mother of Jesus. For centuries, Mary has been extolled and honored, as she should be. Joseph, however, has often been regarded as a mere footnote to the story. Today, I’d like to give Joseph his due. By my lights, Joseph was one of the most righteous men who ever lived. Now when most modern Christians think of a “righteous man,” they think of things like being a good... Read more

Joseph is a friend and partner. At some level, we are all coaches whether intentional or not. We are called to guide others to the Way, the Truth, and Freedom Life in Christ. We will be sharing some ways in the next few weeks for those of you who desire to be intentional coaches. The world needs us. Below is a gift from Joseph that keeps on giving… Robert What fears are your clients expressing this Christmas season?  What fears... Read more

Many today are perplexed and confused about the ways of God. Some have had a vision that God has yet to fulfill, and have now lost hope. Many have impatiently turned to their own devices when it is only God who can ignite His flame on His destiny for them. No man lit the burning bush in the days of Moses and no man can ignite the flame of His vision for your life. Be expectant for God to fan... Read more

Disillusionment has always been a common malady for the Lord’s followers. The early church expected the literal return of the Lord in their lifetime. When it didn’t happen, they needed the encouragement that comes from a major adjustment in their expectation and understanding. Much of the NT was written to psychologically encourage and theologically adjust the saints. The book of Hebrews is a great example of a letter written to a people who were ready to “chuck it” because things... Read more

The Spirit of Christ embraces all of creation. In him were created all things in heaven and on earth; everything visible and everything invisible, all things created through Him and for Him, and in Him all things hold together. Therefore with His Spirit within us, our hearts embrace not only all people but all of creation. Love removes all fear and prejudice, while welcoming and gathering in all that belongs to God. Read more

Saturday, December 18, 2010 Communal Life Heritage by Robert Ricciardelli Anything of spiritual value is not the result of individual accomplishments but birthed from communal life. All the knowledge and wisdom of God has come to us through the ages through prophets of God, Christ Himself, Saints who went before us, and from all who have played roles in the formation of our hearts. True spiritual knowledge belongs to the communion of God’s people and with all glory to God.... Read more

Anything of spiritual value is not the result of individual accomplishments but birthed from communal life. All the knowledge and wisdom of God has come to us through the ages through prophets of God, Christ Himself, Saints who went before us, and from all who have played roles in the formation of our hearts. True spiritual knowledge belongs to the communion of God’s people and with all glory to God. Read more

What is man, that you are mindful of him…Hebrews 2:6 (ESV) After discussing the nature of Christ in the first chapter of the epistle, the author of Hebrews now addresses the nature of man. This order is proper. No one will ever understand the nature and purpose of mankind without understanding the true nature of God through Christ. The confusion among the millions regarding mankind can be traced to their refusal to first embrace God as the Creator and Sustainer... Read more

We are all part of one family “set apart” by God to bring light into the darkness. As ambassadors of His Unshakable Kingdom we represent a people who like anyone else, live ordinary lives and struggle with ordinary problems. What is extraordinary about us is the Spirit within, who gives us overcoming power, clarity, and an unwavering love for God, in bringing His love and service to others each day in His name. Read more

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps. 91:1) If the Bible is primarily a spiritual book, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and to be interpreted and discerned by spiritual men and women, then the natural explanation of things is insufficient to get at the real truth contained within its pages. In the mind of the Spirit everything points us to Christ – there is no compartmentalization, there... Read more