Fear never wrote a symphony or poem, negotiated a peace treaty, or cured a disease. Fear never pulled a family out of poverty or a country out of bigotry. Fear never saved a marriage or a business. Courage did that. Faith did that. People who refused to consult or cower to their timidities did that. But fear itself? Fear herds us into a prison and slams the doors. Wouldn't it be great to walk out?

Faith is the bird that sings while it is yet dark.

God grants us an uncommon life to the degree we surrender our common one.

We might question God's actions, decisions, or declarations. But we can never, ever question his zany, stunning, unquenchable affection.

How does God deal with your bitter heart? He reminds you that what you have is more important than what you don't have. You still have your relationship with God. No one can take that.

What is this love that endures decades, passes on sleep, and resists death to give one kiss? Call it agape love, a love that bears a semblance of God's.

The pulpit is no place for self-promotion. It is a great place for self-deprecation.