God is Approachable
December 16, 2010

Make no mistake about it: Many people fear God and think he's about as approachable as King Kong. They recall the story of Moses and the terrified Israelites at Mt. Sinai when God revealed himself with, "thunder and lightning flashes, and a thick cloud upon the mountain and a very loud trumpet sound, so that all the people in the camp trembled" (Exodus 19:16). The God that could create and control such powerful physical forces as thunder, lightning and clouds doesn't seem too welcoming.

On another occasion the oxen carrying the ark of God stumbled and a man irreverently reached out to stabilize the ark. Immediately, God struck him dead (2 Samuel 6:6-7). Such a violent punishment leveled against an act of disrespect gives the feeling reaching out to God is about as smart as placing your hand on the face of a hot iron.

Apart from those stories people have also gotten the mistaken idea that all sorts of religious hoops have to be jumped through to get to God.

All such misconceptions about God are laid to rest in a manger, in a stable, in Bethlehem some 2,000 years ago. Who could be more approachable than an infant? Who could be less of a threat than a swaddled child with his hands secured at his side? Who invites affection and love more than a newborn child?

You see, don't you? God entered our world as a baby because he wanted us to know he is approachable. This Christmas as you contemplate the Christ child--draw near to God. He invites your affection and adoration.

February 19 , 2009: Learn to Move a 100-Car Train

I've always been fascinated by trains. I used to lay in bed at night, before falling asleep, and imagine climbing into a freight car and traveling across the country. Even now when I hear a faraway train whistle from the deck of my house it stirs up an urge to travel.

November 6, 2005: The Value of Secrets

It may surprise you to discover that there is nothing you can do to endear yourself to others more than opening up and being vulnerable. If you’ll build more windows and fewer walls, you’ll have more shoulder to shoulder friends. We all need at least one person to whom we can tell everything.

October 24, 2005: Finding Success That Matters

Brothers, I urge you to join me in investing our lives into endeavors that truly matter, into things that are of eternal consequence. The crowns that the world bestows on us wither away all too quickly. But long after the accolades are gone and the light fades on our careers, we can wear a crown that lasts forever if we yield our time, treasures and talents to God.