For your attention

I inaugurate today a feature I may post periodically. I acknowledge the idea came after viewing Tim Chailles' "A la carte" posts at his blog, which I commend to you and you can link to here. I have a different name, but this kind of post serves a similar purpose -- seeking to direct your attention to news, issues and insights I believe are important and helpful.

1. Read your Bible more each year -- John Piper provides encouragement to read the Bible more and more. He also explains why it is not legalism to read the Bible when we don't feel like it.

2. A challenge to Christians from the White House -- Al Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, analyzes the Obama administration's recent requirement that even religious employers with pro-life convictions -- except for some churches -- provide coverage under the 2010 health-care reform law for contraceptives, including those that can cause abortions.

3. Tebow cancels event with prosperity preacher -- Joe Carter of The Gospel Coalition points to the cancellation of a speaking engagement by Tim Tebow at a conference organized by prosperity gospel preacher Rod Parsley. He also explains why it matters. There are indications -- including comments in the aftermath of T.D. Jakes' appearance at a recent event held by Chicago pastor James McDonald -- the problems with the prosperity gospel are gaining growing and needed attention from Reformed Christians and other evangelicals.

4. The humanity of Jesus and why it matters -- Russell Moore, theology dean at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, calls attention to the doctrine of Christ's humanity and its importance. He also highly recommends a new book on the subject.

5.The Super Bowl and sex trafficking -- The Christian Post reports on the annual attraction the Super Bowl is for sex traffickers and their slaves -- and how some groups and the state of Indiana are seeking to combat it this week.