Quiet Time Coaching, Episode 123

Today I reflect on my time in San Antonio at the “conversations” conference of theologians and Bible teachers from all over the world.

I loved the lessons and the learning atmosphere, but my highlight was one conversation. Saturday morning breakfast with my old friend Larry Clipp. Larry and I have known each other since the mid-80s. Sadly, we see each other rarely these days, being on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

However, despite the long gaps between seeing each other, God has maintained our bond. In today’s podcast I share about the spiritual blessing it was to me to experience grace and community with Larry.

I also reflect on a section from the book “Sacred Fire” by Ronald Rolheiser who was one of the speakers in San Antonio.  He writes:

“What’s John’s baptism? It is a baptism of repentance, a realization of what we are doing wrong and a clear resolution to correct our bad behavior. What is Jesus’ baptism? It is an entry into grace and community in such a way that empowers us internally to do what is impossible for us to do by our willpower alone.”

Rolheiser, Ronald. Sacred Fire (pp. 129-130). The Crown Publishing Group. Kindle Edition. 

I hope you have experiences of God’s grace and community this week. I am confident that if you do, you will find your spirit refreshed.

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community. 

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.

If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org.

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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)

God bless, Malcolm

PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John