Author Archives: Michael Blaess

Once again, order from chaos

Exodus 26:6 | In describing how the Tabernacle should be constructed, God instructs Moses: “You shall join the [ten panels of twisted linen] to one another with the clasps, that the Tabernacle be one whole.” Robert Alter writes that a more literal translation would be, “that the Tabernacle be one.” He goes on to say, “ThisContinue reading “Once again, order from chaos”

We are not leading the charge

Matthew 24:1-25 | There is a battle going on. And we are right in the thick of it. Wherever we find ourselves. The battle happens in obvious and overtly violent and oppressive ways. The battle happens in subtle and unsuspecting, clever and insidious ways. We’re always up against something. What do we do? Persevere. KeepContinue reading “We are not leading the charge”

Rhythm: What and Why?

Rhythm is the swing of a pendulum. Rhythm is time spent filling up in order to spend time pouring out. Resting to work. Abiding that expresses itself in fruitfulness. I’ve established a new rhythm over the past several weeks – getting up early (with a smile — I am committed to joy, after all), readingContinue reading “Rhythm: What and Why?”

Tuesday, March 13 | Bible Readings

Psalm 35:19-28 | Exodus 19:10-20:21 | Matthew 23:23-32 O Lord our God – we set our hope on you. Jeremiah 14:22 We wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13 Almighty God, we lift our hearts to you; and our eyes areContinue reading “Tuesday, March 13 | Bible Readings”

Choose leaders who are up to the task

Exodus 18:13-27 | Moses can’t do it all by himself. Nor is he meant to. And so we see hints of the Reformation principle of the Priesthood of All Believers. But it’s not a free-for-all. Moses’ father-in-law Jethro gives wise counsel. Some have the capacity to lead groups of thousands. Some have the capacity toContinue reading “Choose leaders who are up to the task”

Monday, March 12 | Bible Readings

Psalm 35:11-18 | Exodus 18:7-19:9 | Matthew 23:13-22 The Lord executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing. You shall also love the stranger. Deuteronomy 10:18,19 We ought to support such people, so that we may become co-workers with the truth. 3 John 8 God ofContinue reading “Monday, March 12 | Bible Readings”

Leaders Define Culture

Matthew 23:1-3 | “Then Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples. ‘The teachers of the Law and the Pharisees are the authorized interpreters of Moses’ Law. So you must obey and follow everything they tell you to do; do not, however, imitate their actions, because they don’t practice what they preach.’” Today aContinue reading “Leaders Define Culture”

Saturday, March 10 | Bible Readings

Psalm 35:1-10 | Exodus 17:1-18:6 | Matthew 22:41-23:12 For God alone my soul waits in silence; from him comes my salvation. Psalm 62:1 Christ says, “Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.” Mark 11:24 (NKJV) Grant us, this day, dear Lord, the assurance that youContinue reading “Saturday, March 10 | Bible Readings”

There’s always more

Matthew 22:23-40 | Our understanding of how things are now often gets in the way of seeing how things could be. But, there’s more. The Holy Spirit. Steven Pressfield calls it the Muse. God’s power. It’s the source of inspiration. Creativity. Miracles. Forgiveness. Healing. Love. New life. When we miss the fullness of God’s power,Continue reading “There’s always more”