Pondering John 15:9-17. Years ago I attended the Boston Marathon as a cheerleader. Keith and several friends qualified to race alongside thousands who had diligently trained so they could participate in this respected event. I found several spots along the runner’s route to cheer before locating the perfect spot overlooking the finish line where IContinue reading “Recognizable Joy”
Author Archives: debponders
Fruit for All
Pondering John 15:5-8. He had so little time left. He would want to make every moment count. Every word He spoke would be forever remembered as valuable. Jesus’ foremost commitment in His last hours was divided between praying to His Father and preparing His beloved friends for the future. And I am convinced Scripture wantsContinue reading “Fruit for All”
The True Vine
Pondering John 15:1-4. From California to Italy to France to Portugal to Israel to New Zealand, I have visited many vineyards. Therefore, I’ve had countless opportunities to ponder chapter 15 of John’s gospel. Jesus revelation of Himself as the true vine, me as His branch and God, the Father as the gardener has challenged and encouragedContinue reading “The True Vine”
Blessed Assurance
Pondering John 14:15-31. When I switch on a lamp, it will light the room even though I don’t understand electricity and how it works. In the same way, I believe God has revealed Himself through Scripture even though there is so much I don’t understand. For example, I don’t understand it yet I believe thatContinue reading “Blessed Assurance”
Like Father, Like Son
Pondering John 14:8-14. The quarantine of 2020 forced us to slow our pace of life but I don’t think I was ever been so mentally exhausted. The unrelenting COVID-19, the tragic displays of injustice topped off with the constant political bantering wore me out. I struggled for answers as to how our nation has gottenContinue reading “Like Father, Like Son”
A Look at the Past
(Photo is taken from the high school yearbook when I was a junior.) Pondering John 14:6-7. I’ve struggled. I’ve lamented. I’ve tried to listen more than speak. And I’ve learned. I’ve fought against naïveté and the desire to look away. Yet I still have more questions than answers. I am utterly overwhelmed by mankind’s brokenness.Continue reading “A Look at the Past”
What Color is the Dress?
Pondering John 14:6-7. A highly debated social topic of 2015 was, “What color is the dress? Is it black and blue or is it white and gold?” People were actually angry and fighting over who was right. Some people concluded, “What is true for you is not true for me. I see one color andContinue reading “What Color is the Dress?”
The Road Less Traveled
Pondering John 14:2-7. I live at the end of a long country road. It is the only way to get to my home. If you wish to visit, you can’t randomly choose any road you want because no other road will guide you to my front door. You also can’t call my cell phone byContinue reading “The Road Less Traveled”
Elbow on the Table
Pondering John 13:34-14:1. The day my daughter began her senior year of high school, I had a moment of panic. I realized I had less than a year to teach her everything she needed to know so she could navigate through life without parents nearby. I promptly began a crash course on table manners. EveryContinue reading “Elbow on the Table”
How are We Doing?
Pondering John 13:18-35. Jesus washed the disciples feet and ate with them. And then the moment arrived when Judas got up from the table and left. Did he wrestle with his choice? Did he hesitate before the betrayal? Perhaps Jesus looked around the room at the devoted followers who remained when He lovingly addressed themContinue reading “How are We Doing?”
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