There are many calls on our limited time - working, commuting, eating, sleeping etc.

But we are exhorted to seek the kingdom of God first.

That means setting aside time to read our bibles, pray and serve.

The oil that ran out symbolizes the Holy Spirit. If our relationship with God runs dry we are in danger of missing out.

That relationship  will remain strong however, if we read the Bible regularly, pray regularly and forgive those who have hurt us.

Exploring the parable from the perspectives of the prodigal son, the father and the elder brother.

We are supposed to discern between good and evil but we shouldn't write off people who may be still to commence their faith journey

Jesus spoke in parables in order to engage His audience and to reveal aspects of the kingdom of God hidden from those with closed minds.

The Good Samaritan parable challenges us to help those who have needs that we come across, even though they may be different from us.

The peace that Jesus offers is more than an absence of war. 

It is shalom, the Hebrew word meaning wholeness.

Jesus wants to help us repair internal hurts and damaged relationships and to extend that grace to others as well.

Jesus is a member of the trinity and so is the Father but this verse in Isaiah 9:6 is a metaphor.

It is saying that Jesus has all the attributes of a good father.

He provides, protects, counsels, sustains and even disciplines (His discipline is not punishment but correction).

He does all these things because He loves and cares for us.

We might try going to all sorts of people for advice and guidance but Jesus is a far better counselor.

He is better than all the people we know and certainly better than AI.

He is a wonderful counselor because He is full of power and wisdom and truly cares for us.

What do you rely on in a crisis? What is the anchor that keeps you steady?

A dynamic relationship with Jesus is the best anchor. Other anchors fail.

Another reliable anchor is to have memorized  a key scripture which can sustain when a crisis hits.

380 million Christians are persecuted every year somewhere on the planet.

Which of the 10 most dangerous places for Christians would you like to pray for?

It does make a difference!