This tragedy teaches us that it's entirely possible to say we believe the gospel while inwardly living by our performance, reputation, or role in the church. We may sing “Amazing Grace” on Sunday, but we rely on our own faithfulness Monday through Saturday.
I grew up around people who looked like me but never felt like I belonged. My own culture felt like a jacket that never quite fit. I wore it because I had to. But it always felt tight in the shoulders, awkward at the seams.
For most of my life, I carried wounds that no one could see—wounds buried so deep they shaped the way I thought about everything: God, myself, and others. These weren’t the kind of wounds you bandage or explain away with a story that makes people feel comfortable.
For most of my life, I carried wounds that no one could see—wounds buried so deep they shaped the way I thought about everything: God, myself, and others. These weren’t the kind of wounds you bandage or explain away with a story that makes people feel comfortable.
This tragedy teaches us that it's entirely possible to say we believe the gospel while inwardly living by our performance, reputation, or role in the church. We may sing “Amazing Grace” on Sunday, but we rely on our own faithfulness Monday through Saturday.
I grew up around people who looked like me but never felt like I belonged. My own culture felt like a jacket that never quite fit. I wore it because I had to. But it always felt tight in the shoulders, awkward at the seams.
Christianity proclaims a God who comes near, suffers with us, and redeems us through His own sacrifice. Islam, however, presents a God who remains distant in terms of personal relationship, though the Qur’an speaks of His closeness in sovereignty and knowledge.
History shows us that multiethnic societies built on a common set of values create strong, prosperous nations (Huntington, 2004). Multiculturalism, on the other hand, is a relatively recent experiment that has often led to social and political fragmentation (Putnam, 2007).
. Time and again, I return to one of the most powerful resources I have ever encountered: Martin Lloyd-Jones’ sermon series on Spiritual Depression. His insights have become a lifeline, helping me navigate the darkness with renewed hope.
Many people assume that deep religious conviction and meaningful interfaith dialogue are at odds, but I have found the opposite true. The gospel provides a foundation to hold firm in our faith while engaging others with grace, love, and humility.
