The failures of Israel's Kings detailed in the books of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings can be discouraging unless we realize that the scriptural authors want us to see God (Yahweh) as the Hero, not these men. God is the one who will keep his promise to Israel (and to us) through his Heroic Command of Human History, his Heroic Commitment to his people, and by paying the Heroic Cost to save humanity.

Lessons from a failed father and a narcissistic son: 1) Faith learns that we are sinners, but that a faithful King and Son comes to save; 2) Hope discerns a confident but sober way to live in anticipation of "Thy Kingdom come"; 3) Love learns to accept and to imitate our Heavenly Father's love and our Savior's life.

When you discover you're a monster: 1) faithful are the wounds of a friend; 2) forgiveness is just a prayer away (Psalm 51)...; 3)... though consequences may not go away (e.g., Absalom's sin and rebellion); 4) worship can see you through (e.g., Psalm 3)

David uses & abuses people; manipulates the situation to cover his sin; and fails to exercise his kingly office. By contrast, Jesus meets the needs of others; uses his powers to care for people; and refuses kingly authority on the world's terms.

God's loyal love made him so vulnerable that he became homeless that he might take up residence in us. Covenant makes God and humanity inextricably linked by grace.

Dean Reggie Kidd has an encouraging word on what it means to be a part of the family of God.

The Very Rev. Dr, Reggie Kidd talks about the stability, relationship, and mystery of the love of God as seen through the Holy Trinity.

The Perfect Touch