In the Apostles' Creed we confess, "I believe in Jesus Christ .. who ... descended into hell." Sound sad? Instead of pity, think parade!

The access to some mountains is restricted ... and for good reason. But just look at the one to which Jesus has given us access.

Is God punishing me? It may feel like that at times. If not, then what am I to make of the challenges and afflictions that come my way?

Jesus was asked, "Lord, are only a few going to be saved?" Do you know how He answered that question? He didn't. It's not important. Instead, Jesus directs us our attention to something of much greater significance that we don't want to overlook.

It doesn't take much to sprain your ankle if the path is uneven. Healing is necessary when it happens. Healing is also needed when you and I stumble in our walk with the Lord.

Jesus said, "Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division." Isn't Jesus the "Prince of Peace"? How is this possible?

In 1 Corinthians Paul states boldly, "We preach Christ crucified." And we confess this in the Apostles' Creed. Why is this such an important part of what we believe?

Facing the opposition of the world can feel like you're sailing into the wind. It may seem even seem impossible. But, you can sail into the wind. It's a matter of physics and knowing what to do. And, in Christ, we can face the opposition of this world and not lose heart.

Not all fire is to be prevented. So says the U.S. Forest Service. And so says our Savior here in this text, but for a very different reason.

There's no joy in the race if we're fleeing in fear. Repenting daily of our sin and trusting in our Savior we have real forgiveness. Instead of looking back over our shoulder, the writer to the Hebrews reminds us that we run the race looking forward in faith.