Gracias has become one of the most essential terms in the Spanish language. After words like “papá” (dad) and “mama” (mom), “gracias” (thank you) is part of the everyday vocabulary of all Spanish speakers. In all cultures, expressing gratitude to others represents good manners and civil interaction. For this reason, parents teach their children to…
My Dad 15 Years Later and How to Help Those Who Are Suffering
“Grief never ends…but it changes. It is a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith… It is the price of love.” This phrase from an unknown author perfectly describes the grief one experiences at the death of a loved one. I write these words…
“Diversity is a Gift, Not a Threat.” Conversation at Our Urban Voices Podcast
https://oururbanvoices.com/captivate-podcast/120-diversity-is-a-gift-not-a-threat
Remember Your Heavenly Citizenship
There is so much division and contention around us. People have different opinions, which become more evident during the election season. We all long for unity! However, unity is not something we pursue in our efforts; as followers of Christ, it is a gift we receive, affirm, and celebrate. Celebrate the heavenly citizenship of all…
Christian men and fathers need more encouragement
I have always been struck by the contrast between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations. Generally, Mother’s Day is a great holiday and a reason for widespread joy in which most recognize mothers’ hard work and selflessness. Celebrating mom is a social obligation enthusiastically embraced because everyone has every reason to do so. Recognizing fathers,…
Theological Education as Lifelong Communal Relationship (Article in Sapientia)
The North African theologian Augustine of Hippo allegedly made a statement that could quickly summarize the purpose of theological education: “To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek Him the greatest adventure; to find Him the greatest human achievement.” Our lives find their purpose and meaning in the triune God, and…
Love in Action (Easter Devotional for the Biola Center for Christianity, Culture, and the Arts)
Individualism is a core value of American culture. In this country, a central goal of parenting is to raise children to become independent and self-sufficient adults. The underlying assumption for this reality and cultural practice is the belief that each of us has the agency and responsibility to look for our own interests without becoming…
“The Hispanic Faculty Experience: An Interview with Octavio Esqueda” for the Christian Scholar’s Review
Hispanics have long been integral to U.S. society making significant contributions including the education sector. Though many institutions of higher education have increased their priority on recruiting students from Hispanic backgrounds, the challenge remains for institutions of Christian higher education to engage in the recruitment, support, and retention of Hispanic faculty. Furthermore, the challenge remains…
An Invitation To Wait On The Lord (Biola Advent Devotional)
I have attended church services all my life, but there is one in particular that I will never forget. It happened many years ago in a little town in the eastern part of Cuba, but I can still hear the music and picture the faces of God’s people worshiping our Lord. The church’s town was…