"I just want to speak the name of Jesus."

Unapologetically, I am a follower of Jesus Christ. I love Him. He has changed (and is changing) my life daily.

If you’re not a Christian…

Hang in there. You may not believe that Jesus is God or that He made you or has any relevance whatsoever for your life. But that shouldn’t stop you from reading, or from being my friend here. I wish you nothing but the best, truest, deepest and most beautiful life.

While I’m convinced that Jesus alone offers you all that your heart of hearts most deeply longs for, you may not be. And that’s ok.

Here’s an offer for you:

If you want to put this “Jesus-thing” to the test, will you let me pray for you? Just leave me a comment, and I’ll respond here and you can share as much as you want. I commit to pray for you. Then, let’s just see what/if anything God does in response?

I Speak Jesus

This song has been on repeat in my head and playlists for almost two months now:

It echoes my heart’s deepest desires. I truly and simply want to remind myself and all who are open to hear that Jesus’ name is power, healing, hope and life. That He alone can forgive my/your sins.

From the Old Testament.. (which many don’t realize contains deeply encouraging truths about God’s mercy and grace to all who seek Him):

“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18-19)

Returning from Istanbul

I just got back from another trip to Istanbul. I have friends there who work selflessly to help Turkish young adults learn and practice their English. They do this for people without charge - simply because they love people. And more importantly, because they want to honor and obey what Jesus said was the second most important commandment to obey:

“Love your neighbor as yourself.”

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My trip was a bit of a whirlwind. Just six days there. Istanbul is a magnificent city, and it is deeply historical. The Turkish people are wonderful hosts and hostesses. While most don’t believe the same things I do about Jesus, they by culture practice loving neighbor well - even when the neighbor happens to be a white American male who’s a nerdy Star Trek fan.

Ramping back up and Revelation

So I’m at Barnes & Noble this a.m. after returning late last night. I’m prepping for Sunday’s sermon. I’ll be back in Revelation (go here if you’re interested in our series on Revelation).

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The passages I'll be preaching from are difficult to digest and understand why they are relevant for our daily life. That's why I reminded myself this morning that "I just want to speak the name of Jesus."

He is who I want to direct my attention and gaze to. When I focus on Him, life’s troubles and even heady successes become a proper blur.

I hope you know Him (or are curious to).

Enjoy your weekend!

P.S. Leave a comment or “like” the post

I know it’s an “extra step” for you on a busy day, but if you’d take two minutes to leave a comment or just “like” a post here and there, it always is an encouragement to writers who hope that what we create/speak connects with you.

1. Matthew 22:39

The “first and greatest commandment” according to Jesus is: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

2. You can also search for “Northstar Church Blacksburg” on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and find the series there.