Joe Barnett

I thank my God every time I remember you.                               —Philippians 1:3 When someone posts you a birthday card or texts you a Thank You note, you’re being told that you are special to them; that you have implanted a bit […]

He did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.        —Matthew 13:58 The big fish in Jesus’ hometown were amazed at his teaching—and he was amazed at their lack of faith (Mk 6:2, 6). They’d known him since he was a kid riding his bike on their sidewalks. They

What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?                      —Mark 8:36 One of the temptations Satan threw at Jesus was this: showing him all the kingdoms of the world, he said, “I will give it all to you

If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.                          —Mark 4:23 God’s grace includes anyone who will accept it . . . “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink” (Jn 7:37). “If anyone is in Christ, he is a

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.           —Romans 12:6 You’ve read stories about the extraordinary faith and works of people like Albert Schweitzer, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Mother Teresa. Inspiring. And depressing. Because you think if that’s what it takes, you’ll never make it. You’re not planning on

Run in such a way as to get the prize.               —1 Corinthians 9:24 I see the lady several mornings a week, walking her dog; a funny looking greyhound. There used to be a dog track south of town on I-45. Maybe that’s where she got her greyhound; some

Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.                   —Philippians 2:4 The man of the house read the paper while his overnight guest played with his kids and thrilled them with magic tricks. The father put his

You are worth more than many sparrows.                                        —Luke 12:7 What a week! It was the week in 1997 that Princess Diana died in Paris, Mother Teresa died in Calcutta, and Viktor Frankl died in Vienna. And

When you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.           —Luke 22:32 Jesus told Peter he would deny him. Peter said he wouldn’t. He did. Satan won that round. But Jesus knew the fight wasn’t over and that Peter would win: “When you have turned back,” he said, “strengthen your brothers.” Not

Go now and leave your life of sin.                        —John 8:11 “Adulteress!” they shrieked. “The Law says to stone her. What do you say Jesus?” What did he say? “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a