Grieving with Grace: Barbara Bush Sets Example
The following is submitted by Jan Teel-Nealis author of Grieving by the Numbers: Glimpses of Glory:
The following is submitted by Jan Teel-Nealis author of Grieving by the Numbers: Glimpses of Glory:
Here is an interesting fact. Christian is the idiom we use most frequently for Christ-followers, but that term ‘Christian’ occurs in Scripture only three times! (Acts 11:26; 26:28; I Peter 4:16) Only three times – and it is not a term of endearment, but of derision, the name no one wanted to be identified by, the name that led to persecution and cultural rejection.
The only food on Chick-fil-A’s menu I normally eat is the grilled market salad, since I’m watching my weight. But today I feel like ordering dozens of chicken sandwiches with waffle fries to share with friends. Why? Chick-fil-A is again under scrutiny because of its Christian values.
I meet many people today who tell me they need a word from God. I’ve seen Christians line up in front of prophets, hoping for a quick solution to their problem. I’ve also seen those same Christians stand in line a second time, in front of the same prophets, because they didn’t like the word they received the first time! I call these people “prophecy chasers.”
Back in the old days, Hollywood gave us big-screen Bible epics every year around Easter. Ben-Hur, The Robe and The Greatest Story Ever Told offered chariot races, clashing swords, sweeping musical scores and colorful Roman costumes—along with some overacting and cheesy religious sentimentality.
Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights” (Deut. 33:29, NIV).