Who can say he is pure in heart? Looking ourselves in the mirror, we find that we are sinners in need of forgiveness and cleansing. As Paul writes after lengthy demonstration, we “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). We were created in God’s image and likeness and called to reflect his glory.
Mercy presupposes knowing what it is like to be in a position of weakness. Jesus experienced the frailty of being human: “he had to be made like them, fully human in every way.” While being free from sin, Jesus could empathize with sinful humanity’s frailty and vulnerability to temptation.
Perhaps the most surprising and countercultural of all the Beatitudes is the third (not included in Luke’s version): “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5; cf. Psalm 37:11). What does “meek” even mean?
“Come to me and rest” marks the difference between religion (the Pharisees) and relationship (with Jesus). Too often we focus…
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Where can Christian leaders get help? Leaders face mounting pressures in their churches and the culture. They’re called to lead others. But where do they go for help when they face burnout, struggles, or transitions? We offer confidential Christian leadership coaching at our oasis of rest in Wake Forest, NC in the context of authentic hospitality. Christian leaders can book a personalized retreat at our home (COMING SOON!).