obedience – Page 2 – 300 words a day

The foolish cure.

(Here’s the video version of this post: The foolish cure) Namaan was sick. He was a war hero, he was an army commander, he was the king’s confidant. And he was sick. There was nothing he could do. There was no one that could help. Because of the contagion, he would be cut off from his […]

by Jon Swanson

Not sure what to do

I’m trying to figure out what to do about Haiti. I know. It sounds dumb. Like it’s up to me to figure out massive physical damage, horrible family destruction, ruined infrastructure. Other people are doing lots of things, from texting donations to holding prayer services. The denomination I’m connected to is looking long-term, planning to […]

by Jon Swanson

especially not after them

Is it better to say “no” and then do what you are asked or is it better to say “yes” and then not get around to it? That’s the heart of a “two brothers” story that Jesus tells. Their dad asks them to work in the vineyard. One argues, one agrees. One goes, one doesn’t. […]

by Jon Swanson

sometimes there is more than we know.

Jesus and his followers are headed to Jerusalem. They stop, just outside of a nearby town. Jesus calls two of them over and gives them specific instructions to bring him two donkeys, telling them where to look and what to do if anyone asked questions. As the guys are leaving, Matthew tells us that this […]

by Jon Swanson

helping each other grow.

Your brother Dave is a good guy. He really is. So when you see him look twice at the waitress at lunch, you don’t think much about it. Your sister Helen is a wonderful cook. So when she stands in the kitchen after dinner talking with some friends about the neighbor’s peculiar habits, you don’t […]