Last night I taught Psalm One at the women’s Bible study at my church. Because of the familiarity of this psalm, I anticipated their expectations to be low. The comments I received afterward let me know that I’d given them some fresh insights. After verse one tells us that the blessed person is not influenced by unbelievers, verse two tells us how that is possible. The blessed person delights in the law of … 
Next weekend I’m speaking at a women’s retreat presenting my recently revised theme: Finding Hope in a World of Hurt. One of my favorite parts is the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth that illustrates where God’s sovereignty and God’s love intersect. The gospel of Luke describes this husband and wife team as “upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly” (1:6). This couple does everything right, but there’s … 
Do you ever feel disregarded by the Lord, like he doesn’t see you—not that you’re invisible, just that he doesn’t notice you? Or, do you sometimes feel like he sees all your mistakes but is oblivious to the good that you are doing? Recently, someone inquired about my profession. I told her I was involved in women’s ministry: speaking and Bible teaching. She asked, “So how do you spend your time when you’re not … 
Part two of Jairus’ story from Mark 5:21-43. While Jesus is on the way to Jairus’ house to heal his dying daughter, there’s an interruption, a delay, another needy person. Someone comes up behind Jesus and touches him. He turns around, scans the crowd, and waits for someone to come forward. Those who tell her story don’t give her a name. She’s simply referred to as the bleeding woman—a very sad title. …
While a large crowd gathers, Jairus, the synagogue ruler, approaches Jesus boldly. He puts aside all dignity and pride, falls at Jesus’ feet, and pleads with him for his dying daughter. (Mt 9:18-26; Mk 5:21-43 Lk 8:40-56) Because Jesus is a controversial figure, Jairus risks his own reputation among his peers, but none of that matters—he is desperate. “Please, come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” … |