Author Archives: A Taste of Grace with Bruce Green

Traveling Mercies

I suppose prayer language is a bit like barbecue—each region has its own distinctive flavor. Some phrases seem to have made the circuit and are employed everywhere (guide, guard and direct, until the next appointed time, well-pleasing in Thy sight). Then there’s one I’ve only heard a handful of times, but I really gravitate toward: traveling mercies. It’sContinue reading “Traveling Mercies”

The Work of Peace

As the pilgrims journeyed toward the holy city, they were thirsty for peace. It was more than just a passing concern for them; peace is a steady theme throughout the ascent psalms (122:6-8, 125:5, 128:6). It’s fitting that as they approached Jerusalem (“the city of peace”), they sought the greater, higher peace of God. InContinue reading “The Work of Peace”

I Am For Peace

Our journey toward God is a journey of and toward peace. Christ told His disciples, “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace.” He went on to say, “In this world you will have trouble.” (John 16:33). That’s exactly the problem the writer is experiencing in Psalm 120—he’s havingContinue reading “I Am For Peace”

Psalms for the Road

Psalms 120-134 were recited by Jewish pilgrims as they journeyed to Jerusalem for the three annual feasts celebrated by the nation of Israel. These 15 psalms speak to anyone who is traveling—whether it is a trip from point A to point B, or the larger journey we make through life. They were referred to asContinue reading “Psalms for the Road”

Is it God’s will for you to read this? (2)

I can think of several reasons.  One is that it seems to me we’re presuming upon God when we assume He has just one thing He wants you or me to be doing next Tuesday evening.  Where did we get that idea? I have to choose whether I want to write this post or stop and getContinue reading “Is it God’s will for you to read this? (2)”

Is it God’s will for you to read this? (1)

I attended an event where the audience was told that we were not there by accident, it was God’s plan for us to be there that evening. If by that they meant that God had given us the freedom to choose and we had chosen to be there, I would have agreed. But that’s not what was meant. WhatContinue reading “Is it God’s will for you to read this? (1)”

John’s baptism and ours

Brandon asks, Why is baptism used before Jesus? I thought baptism signified Jesus’ death and resurrection.  Why would baptism be used by John if that’s what it is for?  As the question suggests, the two baptisms are closely related but also have important differences.  Think of it like an engagement ring and a wedding ring.  The engagement ringContinue reading “John’s baptism and ours”

Jesus Wept

Yvonne wants to know exactly what John meant when he wrote, “Jesus wept” (John 11:35)? This verse is part of John’s account of Jesus raising His friend Lazarus from the dead. This miracle was the final “sign” in John’s highly selective catalogue of miracles that he recorded to lead people to faith and life throughContinue reading “Jesus Wept”