The world is enamored by fireworks, both literally and metaphorically. Constant attention and applause are given to pomp, big moments, and large victories. Sometimes, we focus on what the world values and let it seep into our religion. Newsflash: Heaven is not impressed with fireworks. If anything, heaven notices constant flames. When God sought a king, it was not about who won the most hearts or led the fiercest army. God wanted a king after His own heart (1 Sam 13:14). He d

President Theodore Roosevelt gave his "Man In The Arena" speech in Paris on April 23rd, 1910. The beginning of the speech is as follows: "It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better." This famed speech extols endurance. If you are unfamiliar with it, I encourage you to read the full speech. It is quite true that many only spectate. Often, we give attention to their voices. They

Before the cross was planted in Golgatha, it was pictured by Isaiah. Isaiah shared with us the image of a savior who came into the world and would suffer immensely — not by accident, nor by rage, though plenty was demonstrated, but on purpose. This savior would be despised, rejected, pierced for transgressions which were not his own, and crushed for iniquities which he, himself, did not inquire (Is 53:3-6). Every stroke of the image cast of this suffering savior became identi