temple or idol?
After recent trips to two different amusement parks, I realized that our broken sense of sexuality is most visible in public places, not our bedrooms. People are in love with their own nakedness. I live in a region known for its hot summers, but what people choose to wear is more about the dictates of cultural norms than keeping cool.
beyond the standards
In 1957, a remarkable story written by Colonel William Draper appeared in Look magazine. The article was published under the title: “I Fly the President.” Colonel Draper said that worry was his business and US President Eisenhower’s safety was his reward. To achieve that safety, 33 specialists were responsible for the Columbine III aircraft prior to, during, and after a flight.…
perfect parents
I don’t know what else I can do!” my exasperated friend sulked. “I set high standards for my kids and hold them accountable for their actions, and all they do is hate me. What did I do to deserve this?” He noted how he has always been “hard” (his word) on his son so that he would do great things.…
fashion police
The southern Italian town of Castellammare has created its own version of the "fashion police." The police force there is authorized to fine women who wear risqué clothing such as mini skirts, skimpy jeans, and low-cut tops. One town official claimed that the ban made Castellammare a “civilized city.”
While I’m not sure these laws elevate the city to higher…
solid ground
Feelings lie. This truth became evident as my husband and I talked with a young man who, after becoming sexually active with his girlfriend, was brokenhearted at how far he had moved from following God’s Word. Trying to convince himself that God could bring something good out of their sin, he had continued in the relationship. On the basis of…
friend of sinners
Jesus’ teachings can seem to be paradoxical.
Exhibit A: He requires a standard of living that’s even more rigorous than the Old Testament. Jewish law condemned adultery (Exodus 20:14); Jesus said that even looking at someone lustfully was wrong (Matthew 5:27- 28). Jewish law allowed for divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1); Jesus condemned it except for marital infidelity (Matthew 5:32). Many Jewish leaders misread…
plumb-lined
A must-see for tourists visiting Italy is the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Tuscany. The 8-story tall cathedral bell tower, completed in 1370, was once upright. Today, however, it's tilted. In 1990, the tower's top was 15 feet (4.5m) off vertical and the whole thing was in danger of toppling. So it underwent 12 years of extensive stabilizing work, and—for…
