Caleb Southerland's blog

A Different Kind of Normal

The last word Jesus spoke from the cross “Tetelestai.” A word used in the Roman world within business and tax documents proclaiming “Paid in full.”

However, I struggle with the fact that if it is “paid in full” (or “finished” as most translations say) and then there is nothing more that needs/could be done, then what was the resurrection? Why the celebration of the resurrection? What does it proclaim? What does it change?

The resurrection was simply the receipt of what was paid for on the cross. The receipt for your freedom from sin, death, hell, and Satan.

The Safe Life

We are taught to be careful and guard yourself. We often quote the verse “Guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life.” I think we have gone overboard and misinterpreted the depth of that verse.

Its difficult seeing my actions summed up and defined in such a simple, yet convicting way. After watching this video I just dropped my head in shame. Why do I think and live this way?

Did our God make a scarce world?

Rob Bell recently did an interview with Christianity Today and had some great insight into the depth of tithing:

“When I prepare to teach a text there are a few questions I always ask. First, “What’s the thing behind the thing?” and “What’s the truth behind the truth?” So if we’re talking about tithing, we’re really talking about generosity and participation. And if we’re talking about generosity and participation, then we’re really talking about whether you view the world as a scarcity or as a world governed by a Trinitarian God.

Point of Healing

Stories are the basis for much of life. A story invites you into an experience instead of rattling off a bunch of facts. Stories capture your heart and mind.

Jason’s story of being healed from Leukemia twice, although unique and remarkable, is universal in nature. We are all broken, sick people in one way or another who need a healer. Whether it is physical, spiritual, or emotional healing; we find ourselves all in the same boat.

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