Tag Archives: I have decided to follow Jesus

No Looking Back . . . Mostly

Posted on July 10, 2025 by Pete

If you pause and chew on it a bit, it’s actually kind of chilling. They are words spoken by Jesus which, seems to me, might be considered among Jesus’ more harsh words. They hit as kinda’ judgy. After all, declaring … Continue reading →

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Follow the Leader

Posted on July 8, 2025 by Pete

They had turned to God from idols. And it showed in how they lived. Instead of living to serve only their appetites, they became known for serving the living and true God. No longer were they simply working for stuff … Continue reading →

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Reality Within Hyperbole

Posted on April 29, 2025 by Pete

“Hyperbole”: a figure of speech that uses exaggeration for emphasis, not to be taken literally. That’s what I think I’m encountering as Jesus makes a point to His disciples in Mark 10. But within this hyperbole, I’m chewing on some … Continue reading →

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Whaddya Want?

Posted on September 27, 2024 by Pete

A well-known passage. A stirring declaration. And in its shadow, a response perhaps unnoticed and a question perhaps rarely marked and answered. So, this morning I hover in the shadow of this great truth, its almost assumed implication, and try … Continue reading →

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Loving Him More

Posted on July 30, 2024 by Pete

They’re jarring. These words create not only a dissonance but also a discomfort. I encounter them and I find myself having to make a call, “Chew on them, or gloss over them.” This morning I’m chewing. “If anyone comes to … Continue reading →

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Astonished and Amazed and Afraid, Oh My!

Posted on April 25, 2024 by Pete

On the road again. That’s where Jesus and his disciples were, on the road again “going up to Jerusalem” (Mark 10:32). Jerusalem, the city which was remembered for the best of times — those days past when they made the … Continue reading →

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They Feast With You

Posted on October 26, 2023 by Pete

Arrogant people, so full of themselves they have no fear of slandering anyone else or anything else. Creatures driven by base instinct, following the polluted desires of their flesh, and with no regard for authority. Jazzed by doing what shouldn’t … Continue reading →

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Finished with Sin

Posted on October 18, 2023 by Pete

This morning Peter lays out a bottom-line for his audience. For those who are chosen but living as exiles (1Pet. 1:1), it’s sin or suffering. Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same understanding ​— … Continue reading →

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The Prize at This Time

Posted on August 11, 2023 by Pete

It hits me as another of those “Really?” sayings of Jesus. You know, I believe it because Jesus said it . . . but do I really believe it, because I’m not sure it’s really real. Then Peter said, “Look, … Continue reading →

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Our Personal Purpose Statement

Posted on February 2, 2023 by Pete

He was on his way to Jerusalem. How come? He was compelled by the Spirit. That’s a good thing, yes? Hmm . . . depends how you wanna define good. While he knew that he was bound by the Spirit … Continue reading →

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