Ezra was an Israelite, but he was also a government official. Now, here he is, throwing sophistication and decorum to the wind as he mourns the sins of his people. All of this has brought a crowd of sympathisers into the arena. Men, women and children were gathering to share in … [Read more...] about Ezra #10 – Doing Repentance
Grief
Pondering God’s Goodness in our Distress
First, read this hymn by Horatio Spafford, When peace, like a river, attends my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul. Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this … [Read more...] about Pondering God’s Goodness in our Distress
#19 Jesus and Mourning
Mourning and grief over loss are universal experiences. And even though we rejoice that Jesus has died and been raised from the dead, we still regard death as an enemy and not a friend. So, on the one hand, because we love life, we can affirm that grieving is normal and right. … [Read more...] about #19 Jesus and Mourning
Those Down Days
Disaster will strike. Death is highly likely. What to do? One of the things that Scripture teaches us is not to wait until the day of disaster and then try and figure out how to handle it. If we live like that, chances are we will run in the wrong direction. When Lazarus died, … [Read more...] about Those Down Days
A Good Lament
The world and its religions have no rival to the Psalms. Buddha has no songbook and while the Allah of Islam calls us to remain prostrate and bow low the Psalms teach us to lift our heads, whether in sadness or joy and look to the Lord for help. For the people of God, the … [Read more...] about A Good Lament