At the heart of Christian faith is the story of Jesus death and resurrection.

God sees with utter clarity who we are. He is undeceived as to our warts and wickedness. But when God looks at us that is not all He sees. He also sees who we are intended to be, who we will one day become.

Acceptance is an act of the heart. To accept someone is to affirm to them that you think it's a very good thing they are alive.

Death is the prerequisite to resurrection, the new life God intends.

Sheldon Vanauken wrote that the strongest argument for Christianity is Christians, when they are drawing life from God. The strongest argument against Christianity? Also Christians, when they become exclusive, self-righteous, and complacent.

We are tempted to live under the illusion that somewhere out there are people who are normal.

In a contagious world,we learn to keep our distance. If we get too close to those who are suffering, we might get infected by their pain. It may not be convenient or comfortable. But only when you get close enough to catch their hurt will they be close enough to catch your love.