In the congregation where I serve and on our live stream, some have noticed that we use a wide variety of language for God. For those who are not used to the fullness of the imagery of God, this practice can raise some questions. The Gender of God Most of us grew up with language of God that was … [Read more...]
5 Reasons to Attend Online Bible Studies
Many churches, including Spirit of Joy!, have begun hosting online Bible Studies during the social distancing taking place during the COVID-19 pandemic. You may have seen these and thought to yourself, "That's a great idea, but it's not for me." Allow me to give you some good news. You're … [Read more...]
Weird Bible Stories
One way that I have enjoyed helping people dive deeper into Scripture is by inviting them to experience parts of the Bible that they may never have seen before. The weird and unusual Bible stories. A few years ago, I drafted this five-week sermon series, The Bible's Believe It Or Not. Each week … [Read more...]
For Me? (A Reflection for Easter People)
“Don't let your hearts be troubled.” John 14:1 "I feel like you wrote that with me in mind." That's a comment preachers often get in response to sermons and devotions. People feel that we am writing to their experience - maybe even with them in mind as we write. The 14th chapter of the … [Read more...]
