When we think about decisive battles for the Israelites, Jericho always comes to mind. Yet, there is another battle that was far more significant; and most of us probably don’t even know the name.
Author Archives: Rob Kranz
The Trouble with Jericho
What do you do when the “Facts in the Ground” don’t align with your understanding of the Biblical Text?
Away in a Manger?
Traditions have a funny way of morphing over time. Sometimes, the original meanings get lost or adapted to fit new circumstances. They end up taking on a life of their own. Such is the case with the Christmas story.
Sometimes It’s the Little Things
Sometimes it’s the little things that make the most impact. It’s the thing you least expect that touches you in a way you never imagined.
Reflections from Mt. Nebo
Semester #1 is in the books. Classes are done; papers submitted; and finals taken–for better or for worse. It has been an amazing experience.
Visiting the “Holy of Holies”
A few weeks ago, I had a very rare opportunity. I was able to go inside the Dome of the Rock to see the place where the Holy of Holies of the Temple once stood. For those not familiar with the background, let me provide a very brief (and incomplete) background. If you know the …
Four Days in Northern Israel
All incoming students at JUC are required to take “Physical Settings of the Bible.” This is classified as a geography course, yet the content is much richer than simply studying the geography of the land of Israel. The course covers the features of the of the land of the Bible with an emphasis on how …
The Land of Opportunity
Throughout history, God has called His people to be different; to live in a way contrary to what the world thinks is normal.
Celebrating God’s Word
Yesterday capped the end of the High Holy Days celebrations. As one of my professors said, “The Holidays were great, but it’s great that they were!” (it sounds better in Hebrew). After the 8-day festival of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), comes Simchat Torah–“The Joy of the Torah.” The Torah (first five books of the Old …
Do Christians Need Yom Kippur?
In Judaism, full forgiveness on Yom Kippur only comes after one has sought forgiveness from those they have wronged. Jesus establishes the same standard for his discples.
Stepping into the Jordan 