Jason Nelson
Jason had a career as a teacher, counselor, and leader. He has written and spoken extensively on a variety of topics related to the Christian life. He has been a contributing writer for Time of Grace since 2010. Jason lives with his wife, Nancy, in Wisconsin.
Protesting too much
In psychoanalysis, a “reaction formation” is a defense mechanism. Shakespeare used it in a play within a play. Gertrude recognized it in the character…
Grudges are stubborn things
Pastor asked us in Bible class, “Which is easier for you—forgiving other people or forgiving yourself?” I held back this time and was surprised…
Bloom where you’re transplanted
“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if…
Correctness isn’t political
We should be able to speak our truth in a free society. So should other people. But it’s a rotten lie to suggest belittling…
Im-pul-sive
Sometimes we make decisions and ask, “What was I thinking?” after the fact. Ready. Fire. Aim. That can leave us filled with regret or…
Above the crowd
“Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus. . . . He wanted to see who…
Then they came for me
Martin Niemöller was a Lutheran pastor in Nazi Germany. He eventually found the courage to publicly oppose Adolph Hitler. As a result, he spent…
Forgiveness sagas
The story of civilization is a forgiveness saga. Unfold a big world map on a table and drop a dime on any modern population…
Crocus watch
My favorite tree is a towering white pine because it’s majestic, soft, and always green. My favorite bird is the red cardinal because he…
A proverb and a prayer
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win…
Working with clay
God is using us, and we may not even know it. “Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the…
The sum of our lives
I don’t think I’m clinically depressed because I only feel sad in months that have an “r” in their names. I think it relates…