John 20:27 These words were spoken by Jesus to Thomas, as he was refusing to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead unless he could touch his wounds personally. Most of us will never get such a physical, tangible opportunity here on earth to refute our unbelief. And yet we are called to believe nonetheless. In fact, if we could really see or touch Jesus, no faith would actually be required. On the good days, when things are comfortable, going according to our plan, it i

... with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31 As I look at these commandments, I actually see not two, but three of them – and in a very specific order … 1. Love God 2. Love yourself 3. Love your neighbor Why is this? Because each one enables the next. I cannot love my neighbor as

... and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 What are the crosses of our lives? All those things, people, and circumstances that are difficult for us – illness, loss, unloving people, challenging projects, times with too much to do, times when we aren’t appreciated… So many crosses big and small. Jesus encourages us to do the hard thing, not run from it. Do what we know is right, no matter the consequence. To deny ourselves is to not put our needs first, but