Read Reflect It easy to say, “What can one person do?” Or, “With such odds stacked against me, how can I change my circumstances?” We settle into fatalistic thinking, which usually breeds cynicism. It is hardly a joyful way to live. Today’s proverbs challenge helpless resignation. Can we change all that is wrong with the […]

Have you ever pondered the miracle of wireless internet? How does it work? As a journalist from the Boomer Generation, I pride myself on being an early adapter of technology when it’s helpful. Today we pay bills, send documents, and access the latest news from around the world with only an invisible network connection – no cables. Amazing.

I have never been in prison, but before the sun sets today many more followers of Jesus will join millions who have been jailed, tortured, and killed because of their faith. This tragic reality hit home for me again when I produced an episode of CONTEXT called Believers Under Fire. We profiled the growing persecution of Christians around the world.

I remember once seeing a button that read, “If all the world’s a stage, then I want better lighting.” The first disciples had a different perspective. This world is the theatre for God’s glory. And God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. That was Peter and John’s experience.

Luke gives us a snapshot of how they reacted under pressure.

Imagine you adventured alongside Peter and John in the first century. Jesus spoke with you after his resurrection. You were there when Peter and John healed the broken body of a poor beggar in Jesus’ name. But that healing created such an uproar that you were jailed by authorities and told never to speak about Jesus again. You decided to disregard their warning, take the risk, and obey God instead.

As a journalist, I love stories. One reason why I enjoy reading the Bible is because I discover in its pages the stories that the first Christians told about themselves. What did it mean for them to follow Jesus in everyday life? How were Christians different from others in their culture? Luke has begun to paint a picture that I recognize, and yet some details puzzle me.

This descriptive psalm directs the worshipper’s attention to Mount Zion outlined on the skyline of the City of David, and the temple protected within. It is a celebration of God’s presence amongst his people, represented by the awe-inspiring fortress these structures created around the holy city.