The worldƵs religious landscape is experiencing an interesting shift.
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Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved Scriptures in the entire Bible. Its simple yet profound truths have provided comfort to millions for three millennia. My friends have plenty of ideas about what King David meant when he wrote, ƵThe Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.Ƶ
The Fourth of July is now in the rearview, but letƵs not forget why we celebrate. ItƵs more than a day to gather with friends and family for a cookout, cool off at River Springs, or enjoy the spectacular fireworks hosted by the Owatonna Early Edition Rotary Club. While we all love a day off, especially when it extends into a long weekend, thatƵs not the real reason for the holiday.
ƵJesus is the Word because through him all things are made,Ƶ says Jonathan, 8. ƵWhat He said became. Through the words of Jesus, the Earth and man were made. So, He is the Word.Ƶ
Abraham Lincoln said, ƵI have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.Ƶ Smugness pulls the trigger on misdeeds, but mercy allows us to forgive. Mercy does not excuse the offense, but it can restore relationships and strengthen justice by maturing the offender. It can mean withholding punishment. It can also mean providing comfort for those who are suffering. Mercy is an act of kindness and caring for those who are unable to care for themselves and for those who donƵt deserve it. At its core is forgiveness and selflessness.
ƵIn some places without freedom, girls arenƵt allowed to go to school,Ƶ says Haley, age 8. ƵThe only people I can think of who would like that are the boys! Boys in our class torture us!Ƶ
From the beginning of time, God has initiated and sought to develop a personal relationship with humanity. He began with a direct relationship with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15-25). After their fall, he used divine revelation to communicate with families who followed the reluctant couple. God then elevated patriarchs like Moses and Joshua to positions of power and authority, displayed his awesome power through miracles and mysteries, and communicated with kings and prophets to encourage people to follow the one true God.
Where do you stand with God? Have you ever thought about it? We are often told that we all stand equal before the cross and that is true. That simply means that not one of us is any holier than anybody else. As a matter of fact, before salvation, we are all lost.