Living by a Code
December 23, 2024The idea of “living by a code” is deeply philosophical and can offer a profound sense of direction, purpose, and discipline. In contrast to those who float through life, living by a personal or moral code provides clarity, shaping decisions, behaviors, and interactions with others. It serves as a foundation for navigating challenges, setting priorities,…
What is Life Expectancy?
December 7, 2024Without becoming overly somber, this question has been on my mind lately. Turning to the Bible, we find a fascinating perspective on longevity through the lives of various characters, especially in the Old Testament. Longevity Before the Flood Before the global flood, lifespans were extraordinary by today’s standards. For example: These extended lifespans enabled early…
Exploring the Relationships Between Sin, Bad, and Evil
November 22, 2024When my sister asked, “Are people inherently bad?”, I offered a reply, but the question lingered in my mind. It prompted me to delve deeper into the topic, exploring the concepts of sin, bad, and evil—terms that are interconnected yet distinct in their meanings and implications. Understanding their relationships requires an examination of their definitions,…
Are People Inherently Bad?
November 20, 2024My sister Eileen recently shared that she had been contemplating whether people are inherently bad and asked for my opinion. My immediate response was a quick “yes,” but then I reconsidered and said, “I think people learn to be bad.” She challenged me to explore the topic further, so here are my thoughts. The question…
Matthew: The Tax Collector Turned Disciple
November 18, 2024Matthew, also known as Levi, was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and is traditionally credited as the author of the Gospel of Matthew. His remarkable transformation from a tax collector—a profession despised in Jewish society—to a devoted disciple of Christ exemplifies the transformative power of grace and redemption. Matthew worked as a tax…
Paul (Saul of Tarsus)
November 15, 2024This post continues my reflections on influential figures in the Bible—aside from Jesus—who have shaped my Christian journey. After writing about John and Stephen, who bear my namesake, I turn now to the Apostle Paul. Paul, also known as Saul of Tarsus, was one of the most impactful figures in early Christianity. Born a Jew…
Stephen in the Bible: The First Christian Martyr
November 14, 2024Stephen, one of the seven deacons appointed by the early church, is a prominent New Testament figure, known as the first Christian martyr. Though specific details about his origins are limited, Stephen’s Greek name and service to the Hellenistic Jewish community suggest he was a Greek-speaking Jew, bridging both Jewish and Greek cultures. His life…
John’s Unique Distinction Among the Twelve Apostles
November 12, 2024In Mark 3:13–19, we read about the appointment of the twelve apostles: “Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. He appointed twelve that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out…
Light Triumphs over Darkness
November 8, 2024We all confront conflicts—some that can be resolved logically and others that are deeply emotional. In society, our opinions are shaped by personal emotions, biases, and perspectives, making each viewpoint unique. These emotionally charged differences can sometimes lead to extreme actions. Therefore, it is crucial to have a guiding code of conduct to reinforce our…
Finding Strength in God’s Love
October 31, 2024Many of the chapters in the book of Psalms are attributed to King David, and Psalm 62 is among these. In verses 1 through 4, David expresses the tension between human vulnerability and divine strength. Though he feels surrounded by deceitful and hostile forces, his reliance on God provides an unshakable foundation. This passage is…