Faith Explored Posts

It’s Back to School time for all of us, no matter how young or old we are. Everyone is invited to learn in the classroom of the greatest teacher the world has ever known: Jesus. How do we do that? His lesson plan is ready. We just need to show up.

Christians use the Stations of the Cross to explore the meaning of Jesus’s crucifixion and death. Explore how his suffering connects with the suffering of those who face injustice and racism in America today. Then ask yourself, “How can I take up my cross in response?”

Everyone – politicians, people in business, and you and me – face the temptation to make ourselves look good and to think that we are solely responsible for who we are. Giving thanks to God can help us gain some perspective and avoid hubris. Here are some things you can thank God for.

Developing a habit of gratitude can rewire your brain and change your life and the lives of others. Take a look at this video to see gratitude in action (warning: it will put a smile on your face but might also tug at your heart). And consider these ideas for how to give thanks.

God doesn’t force us to let him be part of our lives. Read this wonderful poem by Thomas Edward Brown, touted by Madeleine L’Engle, that calls us to make room for him so that he can fill us with himself. Are we too full of ourselves to make a space for him? “If thou could'st empty all thyself of self....”

The apostle Paul shows how to pray for others: that they may abound in love for all and that God may strengthen them to live a life devoted to God’s purposes (1 Thess. 3:12-13). Could you pray that prayer for someone?

How to nurture a deep relationship and continual conversation with God while serving others, as you talk with God throughout your day.

Literacy champion Frank Laubach showed how working to help others and praying constantly in a personal relationship with God go together.