Let Heaven and Earth Praise the Lord

• I just finished a book on a near-death experience in which a lady died, went to heaven, experienced a number of beautiful things, and returned to earth. What does the Bible say about these types of experiences?

• What does the Bible say about cremation versus standard burial? If a person is cremated, will he or she still have a physical body in the resurrection?

• Why couldn't Esau find repentance for what he had done? Was his heart hardened beyond repair, or was his motive unforgivable?

In many churches, the phrase "praise and worship" describes a certain style of music. Although worship certainly includes music, it also involves much more. One definition of worship might be "any act of devotion which is offered to God." In His conversation with the Samaritan woman, recorded in John 4, Jesus outlines some of the most important features of true biblical worship.

Dr. Chris Rappazini serves as associate professor and program head of the BA/MA in Pastoral Studies at Moody Bible Institute and Moody Theological Seminary.

Thanksgiving at the Jobe home is a festive event. Since my wife, Dee, has a large extended family, we often crowd as many as 30 people around our table. But before we carve the turkey and enjoy the delicious meal, we gather in a circle to pray. Family members and guests share the things for which they are thankful. And it probably doesn't surprise you that this often ends with many of us tearing up. Giving thanks touches everyone!