If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning... Face it, friend. He is crazy about you!

God will use your mess for good. We see a perfect mess; God sees a perfect chance to train, test , and teach.

I don't think I have ever created an entire fiction piece or followed a historical piece and made that into a sermon.

I'm thinking, "What difference will this sermon make in their lives tomorrow? What am I trying to give them that will make a difference?" For example, had to do with the theme that Jesus will not let go of you. He's holding onto you. I talked to them about the disciples and Peter on the night before the crucifixion of Christ - how Jesus said that all of you are going to turn away, but He would be waiting for them in Galilee.

Christmas begins what Easter celebrates. The child in the cradle became the king on the cross. And because he did, there are no marks on my record. Just grace. His offer has no fine print. He didn't tell me, "Clean up before you come in." He offered, "Come in, and I'll clean you up." It's not my grip on him that matters but his grip on me. And his grip is sure. So is his presence in my life.

I'm protective of the reputation of Christ and the church.

When we look at the love of Christ, we make a wonderful discovery. Love is more a decision than an emotion! Christ-like love applauds good behavior. At the same time Christ-like love refuses to endorse misbehavior. Jesus loved His apostles, but He wasn't silent when they were faithless. Jesus loved the people in the temple, but He didn't sit still when they were hypocritical.