Changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Athens, Greece.
Author: Dave Dishman (Page 464 of 476)
The Four Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John – by JORDAENS – from Musée du Louvre, Paris
The Gospels. That’s what the first four books of the New Testament are called. These are eyewitness reports from those who lived and ate and walked and talked with Jesus. If you want to get a picture of how Jesus lived and treated people and engaged the world, then read the Gospels.
I’ve decided to read the Gospels through 4 times this year. I’ve read them through twice now and have started again on Matthew. While I don’t often come away with profound thoughts, I do see things I’ve never noticed each time I read the stories. Or maybe I’ve noticed them before but I’ve forgotten.
I think it behooves those of us who are choosing to actively follow the Teacher, Jesus, to sift through his life and teachings regularly. I know that it’s always good for me.
I just finished the book, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, by Greg McKeown, for the second time. I rarely read a book more than once, unless it’s the Bible, but I read this on my own last year, and then for a team with Cru this spring. The idea of essentialism is basically “less in better,” i.e. focusing on a few vital areas of work is better than spreading limited time and energy over many. We must learn to discern and say no to good things in order to have time for the best. Few things done better, describes the idea.
In that spirit, I’ll keep this short – it’s a good book, worthy of your time if you’re thinking about doing better work and enjoying it more. If you’re too busy to read it because you’re swamped with work, well, that’s the issue…
Today I’m traveling to Orlando, for Global Missions meetings later this week. I’m sitting in DIA (Denver Int’l Airport) where small birds have taken up residence in the B Concourse. These birds are flying around, gathering crumbs, chattering, roosting and making a mess. The basic things birds do. It’s a type of aviary here. I had to clean my chair before sitting down.
I should gratefully consider the metaphor in front of me – these creatures experience the freedom of flight while I’m preparing to fly in a man-made machine. Mankind has finally caught up with nature. I get it, I just wish the birds would use their designated rest rooms before departure.
Seers, Sayers, Schemers & Saints
Stories to encourage you with the leadership experiences of overlooked men and women of the Bible. Their lives will inform your story, and move you to step out and lead.
GO: Following Jesus to the Ends of the Earth
This book contains reflections on the Lordship of Christ, the Great Commission, and a life of adventure and eternal significance. Read this book and you won't be able to sit still!