In scripture, a “zeal for God” is described as a boiling cauldron or red-hot steel. Yet the opposite of that zealous passion is not hard, cold heartlessness (contrary to accepted belief). Rather, it is lukewarm, half-hearted complacency. That indifference angers God. “Because you are lukewarm – neither hot nor cold – I am about to…
Growing hotter, cooling to lukewarm, or becoming cold: which describes your zeal for God? During a visit to Jerusalem, Jesus found men selling livestock and exchanging money in the temple courts. Angry and passionate, Jesus overturned tables, scattered money, and drove all the men and animals out of the temple area with a whip (John…
Marianne took a deep breath and grabbed the door handle. She had neglected the closet far too long. Her indifference had brought her life to a standstill and now, she could not find the things she needed each day. Marianne mustered just enough energy to open the closet door. Useless gifts, unreturned purchases, rubbish –…
Images of flattened homes, crushed cars, and building debris flitted across our TV screens in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Many of us felt saddened for the victims. But soon the reports became too overwhelming to bear. It was easier to flip the channel to a sitcom or a football game. Distractions keep our minds…
A bouquet of silk flowers sits on your table. Years ago, it was new. Its colors were vibrant and rich. The edges of the petals were crisp and strong. Now, the bouquet simply takes up space. The blossoms still look OK if you don’t peer too closely. But the once-deep reds are no longer passionate.…