Author Archives: David Nuottila

Striving toward righteousness

Matthew 23:27-39 How often have parents entered a child’s tidy and organized room only to encounter an avalanche of stuff upon the opening of the closet door? On the surface the parent is initially delighted, but upon closer inspection such … Continue reading

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Do not fear

Mark 5:21-43 As he walked with Jesus towards his home, Jairus was hit with the news, “Your daughter is dead.” No need to bother Jesus any longer; you’re too late. With such devastating news, one has to wonder what was … Continue reading

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Gifted by the Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 There is a cliché in sports that says, “It’s not bragging if you can back it up.” This is a favorite among gifted athletes, especially those who have set records, won championships and continually make the morning … Continue reading

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More than belief

Genesis 12:1-7; Hebrews 11:1-12; John 6:35-42, 48-51 In 1965, a Motown group called The Impressions scored their biggest hit with a song titled “People Get Ready.” Curtis Mayfield, the song’s composer begs his hearers “People get ready, there’s a train … Continue reading

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Strengthened through faith

Acts 15:36 – 16:5, 1 Peter 5:1-14 Everyone faces a time when the best made plans fall apart. Projects seem too daunting, resources don’t add up, or perhaps we simply cannot rise to the occasion. Barnabas and Paul planned to … Continue reading

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Soon and very soon

Revelation 21:1-7 When I think of God’s kingdom coming in its fullness, I am reminded of the gospel hymn Soon and Very Soon. The opening stanza expresses an undeniable joy. One day, we will see our King Jesus. Soon and … Continue reading

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Beautiful feet

Romans 10:1-15 It goes without saying, our feet aren’t our most attractive attribute. Yet, the human foot is wonderfully designed by our creator. Our feet carry us places; hold us up on sure footing. Feet can be graceful and athletic; … Continue reading

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Inheriting the kingdom

Mark 10:17-27 The rich young man doesn’t understand. Even as he kept the commandments, he just can’t bear to separate himself from his worldly possessions. Instead of inheriting eternal life, he went away dejected. He could not claim the promise … Continue reading

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Feed my sheep

John 21:1-19 Following the crucifixion and death of Christ, Peter seemed lost. So much had taken place in the three years since he had first encountered Jesus. At the beginning of their ministry, Peter was bold, but his assertiveness often … Continue reading

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Changing the rules

Luke 24:1-9 The rule is, when your heart stops beating and you quit breathing, you die. But God’s raising Jesus changes the rules. The resurrection changes the rules of the world, of life and death. Everything is changed. Suddenly we … Continue reading

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