As a young man, missionary Charles Thomas Studd (1860-1931) had everything going for him. A famous cricket champion during his Eton and Cambridge days, fame and success were his. But after his older brother George died, he started questioning it all. “What is all the fame and flattery worth,” he wondered, “when a man comes to face eternity?”
Can we ever be too thankful? I think not, and I believe Scripture backs me up. Yet life is often a struggle, and it becomes so easy to fall into the habit of fretting, complaining, or even despair. So let’s learn a lesson on giving thanks from Corrie ten Boom.
I would imagine that most (or at least many) Christ-followers have at least heard of John Stott, well-known for his godly writings which greatly influenced the global church. But he was perhaps most remembered as the pastors’ pastor, loved for his humble simplicity. Two things, however, stand out in particular for me.
Although his birthdate is unknown, Pontius Pilate was born to the Pontii clan, possibly in what was known as the Samnium region of central Italy, as Marcus Pontius Pilates. He was the prefect, or governor, of Judaea under the reign of the emporer Tiberius.
Simon Peter, how can we help but love him? Delightful in his spontaneity. Likable in his gregariousness. Transparent and enthusiastic. Quick to act, and react. So sure of himself, yet at times timid and even cowardly. There is something genuine and endearing about Peter and his ways.
Signora Sheila