Saved By Grace
Have you ever considered the phrase, “Saved By Grace”? During this Lenten season I have been watching the series called The Chosen. I was motivated to join podcaster Annie F. Downs. Rather than removing something from her life this season, she planned to add something. She committed to watching one episode a day leading up to Easter. I thought this seemed like something I needed in my life right now, so I have committed to joining her. The series is Biblically accurate, but it does take some creative liberties to add detail and conversations not necessarily documented in the Bible. One episode in particular really stuck with me, and I wanted to share. Luke 8:2 “and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene), from whom seven demons had come out;” Grace Is Given, Not Earned Mary Magdalene was a woman who encountered Jesus, and she was possessed by several demons. In the series, Jesus called her by her given name, “Mary,” and the demons left her. He invited her to follow Him, and she did. In a later episode, it shows Mary struggling after witnessing another man with a demon present. It depicts her leaving the camp of Jesus and the other disciples to go back to the life she once lived. Jesus had sent Simon and Matthew to find her and bring her back. The moment that had a profound impact on me was the conversation between Mary and Jesus when she returned. Granted, this interaction was not documented in the Bible, but it lines up with the truth of the Gospel. Mary was clearly ashamed of her behavior and felt unworthy of being part of Jesus’ mission. In this scene, he did not respond in the way that you would expect. His goal was not to condemn her or blame her. She went on to tell Jesus how she was not enough for Him. He responded by saying, “I do not expect you to be enough. My Father only wants your heart.” Mary, still unable to accept this sort of grace, replied, “You have already redeemed me once. I can’t ask you to do that again.” The way Jesus responded at this moment hit me. He said, “If what I did for you can be undone by your actions in one day, then what I did isn’t really worth much.” Jesus Is Enough The gravity of that rang in my head for several days. So often I find myself in Mary’s position. I minimize what Jesus has done for me by thinking I am powerful enough to undo it or that I’m now held to some sort of standard of perfection to maintain my salvation. Seeing the kind eyes of the actor portraying Jesus and seeing Mary hang her head in shame while she cried was powerful. Jesus then says, “I forgive you. It’s behind us.” And He calls her out of His tent to join the others by the fire. Ephesians 2:4-5 “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved.” There are so many takeaways in this short interaction. First, we need to stop minimizing what Jesus did for us on the cross. It was no small act, and we are not powerful enough to undo what God has done. Salvation is a gift. Jesus knew the cost and chose to surrender anyway. The only way to show love and appreciation is by accepting his gift and being grateful for it. Isaiah 53:5 “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Be Like Jesus The other lesson I took from this was the way Jesus responded to her. He did not respond in the way you would expect. We are conditioned by a world full of sinners to be ashamed of ourselves. We believe we deserve to be shamed, blamed and even punished for our mistakes. Jesus met Mary at this moment with nothing but love and forgiveness. What if we treated each other this way? Or even treated ourselves with this kind of grace. This is what God wants from us and for us. He wants us to act like Jesus. If we were able to do that, oh, what a world it would be. John 13:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” You can find Bible studies on Grace using the YouVersion Bible App. It’s free, easy to use and you can take it anywhere!
Importance Of Baptism: A Call To Follow Jesus’ Example
Baptism is an essential part of the Christian faith. It is a powerful symbol of our faith and obedience to Jesus Christ. One of the most profound moments in Scripture regarding baptism is found in Matthew 3:15. In this verse, we see Jesus Himself being baptized by his cousin John the Baptist, even though He was without sin. Why did Jesus, the Son of God, choose to be baptized? The answer lies in His perfect example for us, and the deep spiritual significance it holds for our walk with God. What Does A Symbol Have To Do With Baptism? In Matthew 3:15, we read: “But Jesus answered him, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then John consented.” Here, Jesus’ words are key. He tells John that it is necessary for them to fulfill all righteousness through baptism. Even though Jesus had no sin to repent of, He chose to be baptized to set an example for us. His obedience to the Father’s will, even in this symbolic act, teaches us the importance of surrendering to God’s plan for our lives. Why Should We Be Baptized? Following Jesus’ Example Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry. By following His lead, we identify with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection. Because baptism is a way for us to publicly declare our faith in Jesus Christ, acknowledging that we are part of His body and His mission in the world. Just as Jesus obeyed the will of the Father, we too are called to be obedient through baptism. A Step of Obedience Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. It is a step of obedience in response to God’s call for us to follow Him. In Acts 2:38, Peter tells the people to “repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” So baptism doesn’t save us. Rather, it is a public acknowledgment of the salvation we already have in Jesus. It is a way to demonstrate our commitment to living for Him. A Symbol of Our New Life Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a powerful symbol. Going under the water represents being buried with Christ in His death. Coming out of the water symbolizes our resurrection with Him into new life. Through baptism, we are reminded of the transformation that takes place in us when we accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord. As Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” A Public Confession of Faith Baptism is a public confession of our faith. In Matthew 10:32, Jesus says, “Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” Because we choose to be baptized, we are publicly declaring our faith in Christ, showing the world that we belong to Him. It is a powerful testimony to others of the grace and mercy we have received and a step of courage in our walk with God. It’s Just The Beginning Therefore, baptism is not just a tradition or a ritual; it is an act of obedience and faith. Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:15 demonstrates His submission to the Father’s will, setting an example for us to follow. It is an essential step in our Christian journey, representing our identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Through baptism, we publicly declare our faith, commit to a life of obedience, and embrace the new life that Christ has given us. If you haven’t been baptized, I encourage you to take this step of faith. It is a beautiful and significant act that marks the beginning of your walk with Christ. Since Jesus set the example for us, let us follow in His footsteps and obey His call to be baptized. Learn More About Baptism At The Village I’M READY TO BE BAPTIZED
Be The Light
Several weeks ago, we were given an envelope at church with $20 in it. We were told to pray about where God could use that money to be the light. I was home with my children doing our Bible study one morning, and one of the prompts asked about something we are being patient and waiting on God about. My 8-year-old son, in true 8-year-old form, wrote about a 3D printer. I mentioned to him that those were expensive, and if it was something he really wanted, he was going to need to come up with ways to earn money and start saving toward that. It happened to be snowing that day, so we thought about shoveling for neighbors to earn money. Then, I hopped in the shower, and God does a lot of His talking to me during those times of quiet when I am alone, and the gears started moving in my mind. The Assignment Revealed This turned into more of a service project than anything else. I threw the idea out that we could use our $20 from church to purchase a few more shovels and invite some friends to join us and help our neighbors. We could offer to shovel for free, or if people felt moved to donate, they could, and we would give all the money to Reclaimed. The kids LOVED this idea! (I originally also said that whatever they earned, mom and dad would match it so they could still earn money towards saving for the 3D printer, but we have yet to be held accountable to that.) We went and bought a couple new shovels. We reached out to a few of our local homeschool friends and met up with them. I posted in some local Facebook groups what we were doing and slowly started getting messages. My friend Sarah and I drove around to the houses that contacted us, and we got to work. It was incredible to see these kids working together and working hard. They learned that many hands make light work and that jobs are more fun when done with friends. The people that we encountered were so kind and so generous. Some giving us more than money and providing snacks for the kids, or extra salt. Invaluable Lessons The kids were having such a great time that they asked if they could just start going door to door. We had them practice what they were going to say and gave them the go ahead! We watched them have the courage to talk to strangers, and saw them handle disappointment with grace, as some people did not want their driveway shoveled, even for free. They would walk away with their heads down, but then quickly look up and run with smiles to the next house. We even made sure to shovel the sidewalk at church! The kids ended up earning $261 in donations from local neighbors. They were asking if I could drive them around the next day. They were so excited! I was ready! Unfortunately, we didn’t get any more snow, so our services were no longer needed. Pastor Nate said that he would match what they earned up to $500! We were thrilled!! We waited around a little while to see if we would get any more snow and see if we could grow that money anymore. Something was telling me to just wait. God Shows Up So, we waited. Then, one day about a week or two ago, one of our dear friends shared some amazing news with us. They heard from the doctor/scientist that is working on a cure for their son. They were needed in New York sometime in April for genetic testing on each member of their family. Because I know this family very well, I already knew that many expenses were in their near future with four kids and birthdays and all the extracurriculars and camps coming up, and this was something they were already worrying about and praying about and picking up extra shifts to accommodate. This was something that they needed to do, and it was unknown when it would be done. It became clear that this was what we were waiting for. I prayed about and started contacting more of our homeschool friends and our lifegroup and Nate. I was blown away at the outpouring of love and generosity from these friends and family members. In total, we were able to give them $3,500 to help get them all to New York!! Praise God!! I was in tears on the phone, sharing with my friend what we were doing. She was in tears. She shared with me that they were just discussing everything as a family and thinking about not being able to take everyone because of expenses, and one of their kids said, “Mom, dad, don’t worry. God will provide a way.” And He did! He did! Check out the “Be The Light” messages, discussion guides and videos to learn more!
It’s A Glorious Day!
The innocent joy in my son’s voice as he proclaimed, “It’s a glorious day!” lingers in my heart even a decade later. While that summer day held disappointment for me, it has become a powerful reminder that joy is not directly related to our circumstances. One ugly word, cancer, and our lives had been turned upside down. Once the initial shock of the midnight ER visit, followed by a transfer to the pediatric ICU, had settled down, we began to talk details. I sat in a room with the pediatric oncologist and asked him question after question until I completely exhausted myself. He patiently and empathetically answered every single question as if I were the first mother he had ever delivered this news to. The doctor laid before me what he called our “chemo map.” It was every single day for the next four years mapped out according to the multiple chemo doses my son would receive. To say that this map was overwhelming would be a complete understatement. One of the most grueling parts of Evan’s treatment was the infusions of DEX, a high-dose steroid. If everything went as scheduled, we would be admitted to the hospital for approximately a week at a time, with a week off in between treatments. It was so potent we were not allowed to leave the hospital until tests confirmed the drug was flushed out of his system. We never knew how long our stay would be. Salt In The Wound In mid-summer, we were attempting admission number three or four. By this time, we had been through this daunting process twice, but, this time, the doctor told us that my son’s immunity was low, and he couldn’t be admitted for his infusion. For three Mondays in a row, we had been sent home. As Evan and I walked back to the parking garage with our suitcase and favorite stuffy in tow, I began to cry. I was so disappointed. It was a lot of work to prepare for these admissions. I ran a business with my husband and had to put in extra hours to make sure I could leave my office for a week. We also had a set of twins who were only three years old. As a mom, leaving them was one of the hardest parts of this season of life. Obviously, my sick child needed me, but so did my other two children. When I was in the hospital with Evan, I longed to be home with Carson and Claire. Every once in a while, my husband and I would switch roles, and he would be “hospital dad” so that I could be home with the twins. I remember those nights as I was filled with anxiety. I longed to be back at the hospital but also felt guilty for not being fully present at home. The packing and preparing process became quite emotional for me as well. It felt like the small bit of control I could find in a circumstance that was far beyond my control. As I cried, my son looked at me with a confused expression. “Why are you sad?” he said. Shift In Perspective At age six, he couldn’t understand why I would be sad to be sent home instead of being locked up in a hospital on such a beautiful summer day. As a child, I knew he would never understand the adult concerns, disappointments, and fears that brought me to tears that day. I simply said, “I’m just disappointed, buddy. I wanted to get this over with.” He replied, “I’m happy we get to go home. It’s a GLORIOUS DAY!” As we drove home, I repeated his innocent, childlike words in my head. It definitely did not seem like a glorious day. My son had cancer. It was summertime, and our vacations consisted of several hospital stays. I barely saw my husband as we both did what we needed to do to keep our family afloat. When we arrived home, Carson and Claire were so excited to see us. The weather was absolutely perfect. Now that I think about it, I don’t remember exactly what we did that day, but it wasn’t anything special. We played outside and enjoyed not being separated by a hospital stay. I do remember lying on my belly in the grass as the kids piled on my back and I took a selfie as I thought, “This is a glorious day!” That picture is still on my fridge–ten years later as a reminder that what I have planned does not always include God’s will for me or my family. I truly believe it pleases God to give us the gift of joy in the most unlikely circumstances. He brings joy into our lives in ways we do not expect, so we know the joy comes from Him. Joy That Stays With You Nearly a decade later, as I sat with my laptop writing this, my youngest son, Carson, asked what I was working on. I told him I was writing about joy. “Are you writing about me?” he asked. “Actually, I am,” I replied. “I’m writing about the glorious day.” Much to my surprise, he said, “I remember that day!” “You do?” I replied in disbelief. He was only three years old that summer. I had mentioned this story before, and there is that group selfie on the fridge, but I definitely did not expect him to remember that simple, insignificant day. Out of curiosity I asked him what he remembered about it. He told me, “We didn’t do much; I just remember you picking me and Claire up from the babysitter, and I was so happy to see you. We got to be home with you instead of spending the day there.” Joy Is Simple I was moved by this. In my adult heart, I saw the value in this unplanned, unexpected, and, if I’m being honest, unwanted quality time. I had no idea
Finding Joy in All Circumstances
In a world filled with uncertainty, challenges, and heartaches, finding joy can be a struggle. Yet, the Bible—particularly the book of Philippians—reminds us that joy is not merely a fleeting emotion. It’s a choice we can hold onto, no matter what life throws our way. In Philippians, Paul encourages believers to find joy even in the midst of adversity. He offers a blueprint for us to follow when we’re struggling to keep our spirits lifted. Joy is a Choice, Not a Feeling Paul’s letter to the Philippians is often referred to as the “Epistle of Joy,” and for good reason. Despite being in prison, separated from his beloved church, Paul’s message was clear: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). His call to rejoice wasn’t based on his circumstances, but on his relationship with God. This is an essential lesson—joy isn’t something we simply wait for or hope will come our way when things go right. Joy is something we choose, something we cultivate even when life feels heavy. Just as Paul found joy despite being imprisoned and persecuted, we too can choose joy by focusing on the goodness of God in our lives. Joy Comes from Trusting God’s Plans In Philippians 1:6, Paul writes, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Even in uncertain times, we can rest assured that God is working behind the scenes. When we feel overwhelmed by life’s struggles, holding on to the promise that God has a plan for us helps us look beyond the present moment. Trusting that God is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28) brings us peace, which in turn nurtures joy. It’s not about pretending everything is perfect but rather recognizing that we are part of a bigger story. One that ultimately leads to hope and fulfillment in Christ. Joy is Found in Serving Others One of the most profound aspects of Philippians is Paul’s example of joy in serving others. In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul writes, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Sometimes, our joy can be found when we stop looking inward and start looking outward. Serving others, even in small ways, can bring immense joy into our hearts. Helping someone in need or offering a kind word can shift our focus from our problems and remind us of the goodness in the world. Serving others with a heart of love and humility aligns us with God’s will and fills our lives with purpose and joy. Peace Leads to Joy Paul also encourages believers to “do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). Anxiety and worry are major joy-stealers, but Paul reminds us that peace comes when we bring our worries to God and trust that He is in control. When we surrender our fears to God and choose to trust in His peace, joy follows. It’s not a superficial happiness, but a deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing we are held in God’s care. The more we allow His peace to rule our hearts, the more we can experience the fullness of joy that only He can give. Joy is Rooted in the Gospel Finally, the ultimate source of our joy is the gospel—the good news that Jesus Christ lived, died, and rose again for our salvation. In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul says, “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…” The knowledge of Christ’s love for us, the security of our salvation, and the hope we have in Him is the bedrock of true, lasting joy. No matter how difficult our circumstances may be, the gospel offers a joy that cannot be taken away. As Paul reminds us, knowing Christ is the greatest treasure, one that brings peace and joy in all seasons of life. Holding On to Joy in Every Season So, how do we hold on to joy? By choosing to rejoice, trusting God’s plans, serving others, seeking peace, and remembering the gospel. These practices can transform our perspective, even in the midst of life’s challenges. It’s not about denying our struggles but about choosing joy despite them. As Paul shows us, joy is not about our circumstances; it’s about our focus. When we focus on God, His plans, and His promises, joy becomes a deep well that we can draw from, no matter what we face. Let’s hold on to that joy, knowing that in Christ, we have everything we need. We will be talking through the Biblical meaning of joy and how to achieve it. As a church we will be studying The Joy Challenge by Randy Frazee together. Purchase your copy of The Joy Challenge at the Minooka, Seneca, Coal City or Shorewood Campus for $10 and join a Lifegroup. There are groups meeting in the Minooka, Channahon, Shorewood, Joliet, Morris, Coal City and Seneca communities on different days of the week at different times. If you aren’t local, we even have online lifegroups available!
What Does It Mean To Be A Disciple Of Jesus
Being a disciple of Jesus is a transformative journey, one that calls us to live out our faith in deep, committed ways. A disciple isn’t merely someone who knows about Jesus. Rather, a disciple is someone who follows Jesus in every aspect of life. As believers, we are invited to walk in His footsteps, reflect His love, and embody His teachings. But what exactly does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Through the lens of Scripture, particularly 1 Peter 1:18-19 and 1 Peter 1:21-23, we can understand more fully the essence of discipleship. Redeemed by the Blood of Christ In 1 Peter 1:18-19, we read a profound statement about the cost of our salvation and the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice: “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” (1 Peter 1:18-19, NIV) This passage highlights the incredible price Jesus paid for our redemption. The imagery of the “precious blood of Christ” reminds us that our salvation was not bought with mere earthly possessions. But with something far more valuable—Jesus’ own life. Discipleship begins at the cross, where we recognize the immeasurable cost of our redemption. Being a disciple of Jesus means understanding the weight of His sacrifice. Accepting His gift of grace and being forever changed by it. Living in light of this great truth, we know that our lives are no longer our own, but belong to the One who gave Himself for us. Trusting in God’s Plan In the following verses, 1 Peter 1:21-23, the apostle Peter reminds us of the foundation of our faith as believers: “Through Him you believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him, and so your faith and hope are in God. Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.” (1 Peter 1:21-23, NIV) Being a disciple of Jesus involves placing our trust in God’s plan of salvation. Jesus’ death and resurrection were not just historical eventst They are the heart of our faith and the basis of our hope. As disciples, we trust in God’s redemptive work through Christ. In doing so, our lives are shaped by this reality. We are called to purify ourselves by obeying the truth. To live in accordance with God’s Word and follow His ways. Discipleship calls us to a life of purity, not because we can earn our salvation, but because we are motivated by gratitude for the grace we have received. Living Out Love and Holiness At the core of discipleship is love—a love that is deeply rooted in God’s love for us. In 1 Peter 1:22, Peter urges believers to “love one another deeply, from the heart.” Discipleship is not about following a set of rules or adhering to a distant moral code. It’s about embodying the love that Christ showed us on the cross and extending that love to others. This love is sincere, not superficial or conditional, but comes from a heart that has been transformed by God’s truth. But love is not the only hallmark of discipleship. In verse 23, Peter writes: “For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.” (1 Peter 1:23, NIV) To be a disciple of Jesus means to be born again, to experience a spiritual renewal that comes through God’s Word. The Scriptures are the living and enduring word of God. It is through them that we grow and mature in our faith. Discipleship is not a one-time event but a continuous process of transformation. As we meditate on God’s Word, apply it to our lives, and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, we are being made into the image of Christ. A Life of Obedience and Holiness The call to discipleship is not a call to a comfortable life. It is a call to obedience, to living a life that reflects the holiness of the One we follow. Peter writes earlier in this chapter, in verses 14-16: “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” (1 Peter 1:14-16, NIV) Being a disciple means rejecting the desires and patterns of the world and embracing the holiness of God. Discipleship calls us to live according to God’s will, even when it is difficult or counter cultural. Conclusion: A Life Transformed by Christ Being a disciple of Jesus means embracing the sacrifice He made for us, trusting in God’s plan, and living out a life of love, holiness, and obedience. It is a life that continually seeks to follow Jesus, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for what He has done. As disciples, we are called to be transformed by the Word of God, to love others deeply, and to live lives that reflect the holiness of our Savior. This is the essence of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus—following Him, becoming like Him, and sharing His love with the world. We want to help you on your journey to follow Jesus! Lifegroups are a place to take a break from those busy demands of everyday life. They are a place to build authentic friendships – connect with friends, laugh, and serve together. Hang out with your people, love Jesus and each other and experience community. Find a Lifegroup near you today!
Navigating Life’s Storms: Your Personal Guide to Hope
What would you give to have a guide to navigate life’s storms? Let’s be real. Life can feel like you’re constantly riding a roller coaster of emotions, expectations, and uncertainty. One moment you’re crushing your goals, and the next, you’re wondering if you’re even on the right track. Between career pressures, social dynamics, personal challenges, and future worries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. “You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope.” – Psalm 119:114 (NLT) This ancient piece of wisdom offers something powerful: a perspective that goes beyond temporary struggles. When it talks about finding a “refuge,” it’s not suggesting you hide from life’s challenges. Instead, it’s about finding a source of strength in God that keeps you grounded when everything else feels chaotic. Imagine having a personal GPS for life’s most complicated moments—a navigation system that doesn’t just show you the route, but provides emotional and mental support along the way. A personal guide through life’s storms. That’s what this concept of refuge represents. It’s about discovering a resilience through God that doesn’t depend on everything going according to your plan. Understanding Your Personal Refuge Think of a refuge as more than just a physical safe space. It’s a mental and emotional sanctuary—a place of clarity, peace, and renewed energy. In practical terms, this means developing strategies that help you maintain perspective, process challenges, and continually grow by cultivating a relationship with God through prayer. Life isn’t about avoiding difficulties; it’s about building the strength and endurance to navigate them effectively. Each challenge is an opportunity to develop resilience, gain wisdom, and understand yourself better as God leads you to your purpose. Three Strategic Approaches to Finding Your Hope First: Develop a Growth Mindset Your current situation is not your final destination. Every setback, every challenging moment is potential fuel for development. Start viewing obstacles as opportunities for learning and growth. “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6 This means: Embracing challenges instead of avoiding them Seeing failures as valuable feedback, not personal judgments Continuously learning and adapting Believing in God’s capacity to help you improve and evolve When you adopt this perspective, you transform from being a passive recipient of life’s circumstances to allowing God to be an active architect of your personal journey. Next: Create Your Personal Wisdom Collection Start collecting insights that resonate with you. This isn’t about blindly following advice, but curating a personal toolkit of perspectives that help you navigate life’s complexities. Consider: Keeping a journal to track your thoughts and the personal growth you have observed from allowing God to work in your life Saving quotes, Bible passages, or podcast insights that inspire you Following Biblical leaders and mentors who challenge and expand your thinking Regularly reflecting on your experiences and extracting meaningful lessons Your personal wisdom collection becomes a roadmap, helping you make sense of complex emotions and situations. Last: Build a Supportive Network You are not meant to face life’s challenges alone. Surrounding yourself with the right people can dramatically transform your ability to handle stress and maintain hope. “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13: 20 This means: Cultivating relationships with people who encourage your growth and faith Setting healthy boundaries with relationships that drain your energy Seeking mentors who can provide guidance and perspective Being willing to be vulnerable and ask for help when needed A strong support network acts like a safety net, catching you during difficult moments and helping you bounce back stronger. Find a Lifegroup – your people that will encourage you and help lift you up in challenging times. Your Invitation to Hope Hope isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about maintaining a trust in God of possibility and potential, even when external circumstances feel challenging. “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” – Philippians 4:11 Your journey is unique. Your challenges are real. But so is God’s promise to help you to rise, learn, and become stronger with each experience. Stay curious. Stay hopeful. Keep growing. Life’s storms are not going to leave you stranded when you have a place of refuge in God.
Men Of God: It’s Time To Stand Guard
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a book that told us about the things we need to be careful of as Men of God? There are many books in the Bible that tell us what battles we are going to face and the tools we have available to us that will help us win! As a pastor, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of spiritual warfare on our families. It breaks my heart to witness couples on the brink of divorce, children rebelling against their parents, and men struggling silently with addictions and doubt. Time and again, I sit across from people, listening to stories of broken homes and shattered dreams. The Common Thread But there’s a pattern I’ve noticed that deeply concerns me: as men, we tend to face these battles alone. We’ve become experts at putting on a facade, pretending everything is under control even when our world is crumbling around us. We don’t ask for help, even when we’re clearly veering off course. This stubborn self-reliance, this reluctance to show vulnerability, is precisely what Satan uses against us. I believe that’s why the enemy targets men so fiercely. Women often have support networks, they band together in times of trouble. But us men? We retreat into our caves, thinking we can handle everything on our own. Satan uses this to his advantage. He slowly lures us to sleep, gradually pulling us out to sea, alone and unaware. And then, when we’re isolated and vulnerable, he raises a raging storm in our lives. These encounters and observations have made one thing crystal clear to me: many of us don’t realize the intensity of the spiritual battle we’re in, nor do we understand how our isolation makes us even more vulnerable. I know God has a better life for us. Jesus promised us an abundant life (John 10:10), yet so many families are experiencing heartbreak and disintegration. The disconnect between God’s promise and our reality often stems from our failure to recognize and actively engage in the spiritual warfare surrounding us, and our reluctance to fight these battles together. Today, I want to have an honest conversation with you about this. It’s not an easy topic, but it’s one that we, as men of God, need to address head-on. Our families, our communities, and our own spiritual lives depend on it. It’s time we break this cycle of isolation and recognize that true strength lies in our unity in Christ. Stand Together And Stand Firm We live in a world that’s increasingly hostile to our faith. Our beliefs are challenged daily, and the enemy is constantly looking for ways to undermine our relationship with God. As men, we have a God-given responsibility to stand firm and protect our families from these spiritual attacks. But Here’s The Hard Truth: Many Of Us Are Falling Short. We’re in a spiritual battle, brothers. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:12, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Let this sink in for a moment. Our enemy is not our wife when she’s upset with us. It’s not our rebellious teenager pushing boundaries. It’s not our boss who seems unfair, or that neighbor who always causes trouble. No, our true enemy is Satan himself and the spiritual forces of evil. This is why earthly plans and tactics aren’t effective in this fight. We can’t overcome spiritual battles with mere willpower, self-help strategies, or worldly wisdom, we need spiritual armor for a spiritual battle. God’s power and protection can stand against an enemy we can’t see with our physical eyes. This Battle Is Real, And The Stakes Are High Our enemy isn’t after our possessions or even our physical well-being – he’s after our souls and the souls of our loved ones. He wants to destroy our marriages, corrupt our children, and render us ineffective for God’s kingdom. How often do you feel like you’re fighting spiritual battles alone? The enemy is sneaky, and his attacks are often subtle. Let’s be honest about the real struggles we face as men: Career ambitions that slowly pull you away from your family and your faith. Financial pressures that tempt you to compromise your integrity for a quick gain. Overwhelming struggle with pornography that’s eroding your relationships and self-respect. Anger issues that flare up, damaging your family bonds and leaving you feeling guilty and ashamed. Lure of substance abuse as an escape from the stresses of life. Doubts that creep in when your prayers seem to go unanswered, making you question if God really cares. These are the battlegrounds where the enemy seeks to destroy us, our families, and our testimony. But we don’t have to face these challenges alone or unarmed. Armor For The Battle So how do we fight this battle? Paul gives us the answer in Ephesians 6:10-18. We need to put on the full armor of God: The Belt of Truth: Commit to regular Bible study and align your life with God’s Word. Make Scripture reading a daily habit, not just a Sunday activity. Let God’s truth shape your thoughts, decisions, and actions. In a world full of deception, God’s truth is our anchor. The Breastplate of Righteousness: Choose integrity in all areas of your life. This isn’t about perfection, but about consistently aligning your actions with your identity in Christ. At work, choose honesty over shortcuts. In relationships, seek reconciliation over being right. Let your life reflect Christ’s character. Feet Fitted with the Readiness of the Gospel of Peace: Be prepared to share God’s message of hope. This isn’t just about words, but about living a life that demonstrates God’s peace. Be ready to offer comfort, show kindness, and be a steady presence for others in turbulent times. Your actions can open doors for sharing your faith. The Shield of Faith: Trust in
From Corporate America to Kingdom Building
As I prepare for The Village Christian Church’s new Shorewood Campus launch in the fall, I can’t help but marvel at the journey that’s brought me here. My path from corporate America to full-time ministry has been a testament to God’s perfect timing and provision. It’s a story of transformation, faith, and the power of following God’s call. Even when it leads you down unexpected paths. A Life of Service My journey of service began long before I entered the ministry. At 17, I left my hometown of Tampa, Florida, to join the Air Force. For eight years, I served as an air transportation specialist. This role took me from the Philippines to Nebraska and many places in between. Those years instilled in me a deep sense of duty and the importance of working as part of a team toward a greater goal. Little did I know then how God would use this experience to prepare me for His service. The Bible tells us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28, NIV. After leaving the Air Force, I dove into the civilian world, starting in the airline industry. Beginning as a baggage handler, I worked my way up to Regional Vice President. Within five years, I oversaw 84 aviation accounts across the central United States. This rapid ascent taught me valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and the power of hard work. My career then took me through various industries – from manufacturing and distribution to retail distribution. For the last 13 years of my corporate career, I was serving as a General Manager for a big name, corporate supply chain distribution center. This role proved to be, not just the pinnacle of my corporate journey, but also a crucial steppingstone towards my future in ministry. The Stirring of a New Calling Despite the success and satisfaction, I found in my business roles, there was always a sense that something was missing. I’ve been a person of faith throughout my life, but it wasn’t until recent years that I began to feel a strong pull toward full-time ministry. This calling, however, didn’t come as a sudden epiphany. Rather, it was a gradual realization shaped by a series of life experiences and divine interventions. As I reflect on this period of my life, I’m reminded of the words of Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God was quietly preparing me for a significant change, even when I couldn’t see it. A pivotal moment in my journey came about 11 years ago when my company asked my wife and I to transfer from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Salem, Oregon. I was less than thrilled about the idea of moving to the Northwest. We had no family, no friends, no connections, no roots in Salem. However, this move, which initially seemed challenging, became a crucial step in God’s plan for our lives. During our short couple of years in Salem, my wife, who was a new believer at the time, joined a ladies’ LifeGroup. Through this group, she experienced tremendous growth in her faith and knowledge of God’s word. This period was transformative for both of us, as we watched God work in our lives in unexpected ways. Financial Peace and God’s Provision One of the most significant experiences during our time in Salem was our participation in Financial Peace University (FPU). At the time, I thought I was making all the right financial moves. I had a good job, made great money, and had investments. However, as we went through the class, I realized I was making some poor financial decisions. One verse that stood out to me was Proverbs 22:7 “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” The idea of being a slave to anyone, much less a lender, didn’t appeal to me. Inspired by Dave Ramsey’s teachings, my wife and I attacked our debt with “Gazelle Intensity”. We paid off both our cars, all of our credit cards, and a personal loan – everything except our house. I found such peace in this and would later discover this was a crucial step in preparing us for the leap of faith we would take down the road. Looking back, I can see how God was preparing us even then for the transition to full-time ministry. Without this financial freedom, the move from corporate America to ministry would have been much more challenging, if not impossible. The Path to Ministry After two years in Salem, we were transferred back to Ohio. During our time there, we had the opportunity to help a pastor friend start a new church in Hebron, Kentucky. My wife and I provided leadership to the teams there for about six months, helping them get up and running. This experience gave us a taste of what it was like to be involved in church planting and leadership. We also became LifeGroup leaders at our local church in Ohio. Our group grew from about eight people to 22, and it was beautifully diverse – young and old, married and single, people from all ethnicities. This experience taught me the joy of shepherding a small community and watching people grow in their faith. During this time of searching and growth, I found myself increasingly drawn to Jesus’ words in Luke 9:23-24: “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.’” These words challenged me to consider what it truly meant to follow Christ wholeheartedly. The Call Becomes Clear After 2.5 years in Ohio, we
Answered Prayers
It’s Just A Moth It’s also just a tangible, physical sign of a little girl’s answered prayers. A few weeks ago, our 6-year-old daughter Hailey was playing in the yard. All of a sudden, her three brothers came running inside to show me what they had just found. I come outside, and sitting on Hailey’s hand is one of the largest moths ever found in our area. She was so excited to have found this, yet also very worried. One of this moth’s wings was broken, and she didn’t think it would survive. Our daughter, the ever sweet, ever loving and compassionate girl, decided to turn our front tree into the “God tree.” She decorated the entire tree with beautiful painted rocks, scripture, flowers, and a handmade cross created from twigs. She enlisted the help of a few neighborhood kids. Rally The Troops When I looked out my front door, I saw Hailey, her siblings, and a handful of neighbors sitting around the tree in a circle, holding hands. They were praying for this little moth! It was heartwarming and adorable. Hailey placed her moth on the ground by the tree, and it was still there when we all went to bed that night. I knew I needed to get rid of this moth by the next day, otherwise our little girl would see the moth had died, and her prayers weren’t answered how she wanted them to be. Unfortunately, however, caring for a wounded moth is not high on my priority list, and I completely forgot in the midst of a busy family life. The next morning, I sat down at the table to do my normal Bible reading. It was all about not intervening with God’s will, and not rushing things. Which, in my own human nature, ironically reminded me I needed to go and dispose of the likely dead, giant moth outside. As I was getting ready to do so, Hailey came running downstairs and straight out the front door to eagerly see if her prayers were answered. Imagine my sheer and absolute surprise and disbelief when I saw what all the yelling was about. Not only was Hailey’s injured moth alive and well, there was a second identical moth next to it. They were both resting on the cross made of twigs under our God tree. They eventually ended up mating, and laying eggs under the tree. Both moths were healthy, alive, and flew off within the next day. We were left with eggs and the promise of new life. Are You Serious? This was such a physical, tangible way for our kids to see a prayer not only answered, but given even more than what we had asked for. I was able to share scripture during this crazy God moment. “God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). If only all prayers were answered like this. It led me to wonder why… Has a difficult diagnosis from one of our children not been lifted? That unsaved family member is still unsaved after years and years of praying? A good friend is struggling with an unimaginable loss of her husband? Why are so many other prayers left seemingly unanswered? We will never know the answer to that. It clearly isn’t through “works,” or “doing the right thing,” or “being a good Christian.” We don’t know the reason, and we may never know, but we do know one thing. God is good, even if He doesn’t respond to the prayer you’ve been praying in the way you wanted him to. God never promised us we would be exempt from hard times. He did promise us, however, that He would be with us. Him showing up in a very obvious way in this cute and silly moth story shows just that. He Is Here He is present. Not only that, but He is with us through every chapter of life. The creator of the universe doesn’t have to send us little reminders that He is here, yet he does. Don’t let that point be missed. He is kind, and he will show himself to those who ask. It doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed an overnight prayer being answered, but he does promise that he will always be present. Sometimes, all we have to do is look. We will never have all the answers to our questions. I do know, however, that a little girl’s faith was strengthened that day. The neighbors present outside saw God’s hand physically working through something as small as a moth. Those kids ran home to tell their families, and faith on our street grew that day. We have a story to share with family and unbelievers. Our kids have a “God moment” that will stick with them forever. Isn’t that the greatest answered prayer of all? Have A Prayer Request?
Are You Rooted?
What Do We Need Roots For? “To be rooted is perhaps the most important and least-recognized need of the human soul” -Simone Weil, French Philosopher Roots are one of the most important parts of the plant. Stretching into the soil, roots provide stability for the plant, allowing it to sustain high winds or trampling. They gather nutrients and water from the soil, feeding the plant and sustaining its life. They even store some of these nutrients to provide the plant with food in seasons of hardship. Healthy root systems can even ward off disease and keep a plant focused only on absorbing nutrients that are good for it. A few summers ago, my family took a trip to California and stood in awe in a forest of Redwoods. Redwoods are among the largest and tallest trees in the world. While their roots stay shallow in the soil, they spread 50–100 feet out from the tree. The roots intertwine themselves with the roots of all the other Redwood trees. This community of roots provide additional stability for the tree in storms and flooding. What Do Roots Need To Survive? If you’ve ever gardened, taken a walk after a storm, watched the landscape change in times of drought, or seen crops decimated by bugs, you’ll realize that simply having roots is not all a plant needs to thrive. The roots have to stretch deep into the ground, and they have to be planted in the right kind of soil. They have to be watered and fertilized, and may even need to be surrounded by other plants that provide benefits to their well-being. Growing up, my parents always kept a large garden in our backyard. As a child, I helped till the soil, plant the seeds, water, and harvest the vegetables. I used to love the fresh green beans and cucumbers, while my mom would eat tomatoes by the pound. The garden thrived, and it was something I believed I could replicate at my own home. Recently, my husband and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary, which also marks the 13th year we’ve been in our home. The first year we moved in, I planted a large garden in the back corner of our property. I watered it daily, my plants grew and flowered, and I became so excited about the fresh produce we would enjoy. As the vegetables began to grow, though, my plants began to shrivel. Some were eaten by beetles, deer, and rabbits. Some just dried up and sank back into the earth. I was so disappointed that all my hard work had amounted to nothing. I decided to stop planting things and, in fact, ripped out a bunch of plants around the house. Don’t Give Up – Dig In We put rocks in our landscaping, and I swore I wouldn’t plant again, as it was obviously something I wasn’t very good at. Sometimes, this is how our faith life can go. We try it for a season without laying any significant roots or really investigating how we can strengthen our faith. We come up fruitless. In our frustration, we don’t return to our faith or our relationship with God in a serious way. Because of fear that it won’t yield results, we may even become cynical or angry at God. Scripture often provides metaphors between plants and our relationship with God. Within Scripture, we are compared to seeds that need planting in the right kind of soil, branches that need to stay connected to the Vine, and trees planted by streams of water if we remain focused on His ways. Colossians 2:7 states, “Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness (NLT).” Spiritual “Roots” Need Nourishment Too If you were to examine your life right now, where have you laid roots? Are you planted in soil that provides you nourishment and hope, or are your roots thirsting after something that leaves you dry and wanting more? When the wind blows and storms set in, are your roots planted firmly in the ground, or do you feel tossed about and unsettled? Have you surrounded yourself with other plants that enrich the soil, intertwining their roots with yours to help you stand strong and shield you, or are you attempting to stand alone and wish for the best? Beginning September 11 at all campuses of The Village Christian Church, you will have the opportunity to spread your roots into good soil. To grow in a way that will be fruitful and long-lasting. To be planted in something stable and full of truth. The Village will be offering a program called Rooted for ten weeks beginning in September. And we will celebrate your growth on November 14. Find What You Are Missing During Rooted Our mission statement here at The Village is Life Change, Life Growth, and Life Purpose. Is your life is in a place where drastic change is needed, where you need to meet God face to face and invite Him into your heart? Rooted is the place for you. Do you know God, but need to grow in your relationship with Him and His believers? Rooted is the place for you. If you’ve been walking with God awhile, but you lack purpose and vision and don’t realize all the plans that God has for you, then Rooted is also the place for you. For ten weeks, Rooted will walk all participants through the seven habits or disciplines of a relationship with God. Here at the Village, we have four core values: everybody grows, everybody serves, the Bible is our guide, and no boring here. The seven disciplines of Rooted will allow you to see these core values at play. Everybody will grow while learning how to pray and overcome strongholds in their lives, eventually learning to share their faith journey
Back To School Wisdom
The end of summer conjures many different emotions from different people, here is some back to school wisdom for you… Summer’s End As summer winds down, it’s a time to look back on all the memories—whether it’s enjoying countless popsicles, patching up scraped knees, or splashing around at the pool or beach with friends. There have been moments of joy, sibling squabbles, and countless hours of cheering on your kids in their favorite activities, including America’s beloved pastime, baseball. Many of us have also savored family vacations and cherished quality time together. For working families, you might be thinking, “No, summer can’t be over yet! We haven’t done everything we planned!” That feeling of wanting more time is completely natural. And for those who stay at home, perhaps you’re looking forward to the routine of school days and a bit more quiet time. Both feelings are valid, and it’s important to remember: you are a great parents, no matter which perspective you have. God chose you to be the parent to your kids, and He knows you are the perfect fit for them. New Beginnings As we transition from summer to the school year, let’s embrace this new season with joyful, God-filled hearts. Our children, especially the little ones, are incredibly observant and absorb everything they see us do. Starting the school year with genuine faith and a desire to deepen our relationship with Jesus can have a profound impact on our families. When we model a life of bold, faith-filled living, it sets an inspiring example for our kids. They notice how we handle stress, how we worship, and how we live out our faith. These moments leave a lasting impression. Matthew 5:13-16 reminds us: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Consider doing a family Bible study, praying together, listening to worship music, and having Jesus-centered conversations. Shine your light before your children and show them the joy of a faith-filled life. A fun way to grow in faith together is by attending family-friendly, Jesus-centered events. One such event is FamBlitz, which we will be hosting soon. FamBlitz is a live, Nickelodeon-style event that uses games and excitement to teach the whole family about Biblical principles. Parents and children play games together, learning and having fun while hearing the Gospel. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect as a family through fun and laughter while growing in your faith. When your kids see you enjoying learning about Jesus, they’ll be inspired to do the same. Let your light shine brightly for them to see. Purchase Tickets for FamBlitz
In A Relationship?
What would you consider to be some key ingredients in a relationship? How about just spending time together without giving or receiving anything and enjoying the company of your loved one? Our dog got sick recently. We are still not exactly sure of the cause. We think he may have eaten something he wasn’t supposed to. He is a total trash panda; or someone (cough, cough) fed him something he should not have eaten. We cannot prove the cause, all we know, after a very large vet bill, is that he has high cholesterol, elevated liver enzymes and needs to be on a diet. He is less than thrilled; let me tell you. The night we knew something was wrong, it came on suddenly. My daughter came home after school and made a snack. She dropped food on the floor, and Roy did not come running. That was a huge red flag. She called him, and he was very reluctant to respond to her—red flag number two. She offered him a slice of ham, and when he refused, she texted me, “Mom, something is wrong with Roy.” When I got home, he had vomited. I took him outside, and he was clearly in distress. He was pacing in circles and would not interact with us at all. That was so strange for him. He is always excited to see us when we get home. His eyes seemed distant, and he was twitching his head in a strange way. I decided to take him to the after-hours animal hospital because whatever was wrong seemed serious. The ride to the animal hospital was unsettling. He remained on the floorboard of the passenger side, twitching and acting as if I were not even in the car. Roy loves to go for a ride in the car, and he always sits on the armrest as my trusty co-pilot. When we arrived, I explained his symptoms to the triage technician. My main concern was his change in behavior. His lack of attention and affection for me was disturbing. I felt like a total weirdo saying this to her, but if you are a pet owner, you know what I mean. I brought him home, and he struggled through the night, but his symptoms did fade with time. We took him for a follow-up appointment the next day. He looked fairly normal and healthy to our vet, but to us, he still wasn’t acting right. Finally, on day three, when I got home from work, he came and sat near me. He took his usual spot on the couch with me. He has a very particular way of nestling into my bent knees and laying his head on my leg. Then he looked at my face with that loving look a dog can give his owner. I felt so relieved. “Roy, you’re back!” I did not realize how much it had been bothering me until he started acting like his old self again. He seemed relieved as well as he snuggled up next to me and seemed comforted by my presence, which was a huge relief. While he was sick, he did not want us to touch him. He was even hiding under my bed. In this particular moment, he did not want anything from me. There was no urgency to go outside, go for a walk, or for his bowl to be filled. He wasn’t sitting near me because I had a snack he was interested in. He was sitting with me because he just wanted ME! I was driving home from church on Sunday with my daughter in the front seat. We were recapping the week we had with our beloved Roy, and I was telling her the above story. We talked about how sad we felt when he did not find comfort in our family members. I told her how good it felt when he finally sat near me. He didn’t want anything from me; he just wanted to be near me. He felt the comfort my presence offered him, and as I said those words out loud, it hit me. I said to Claire, “Don’t you think that’s exactly how God feels about us?” Come near to God and God will come near to you. -James 4:8 She was quiet for a minute and gave me a knowing look. It makes so much sense. That’s what prayer is. That’s what time with God should look like. Of course, He is glad to bless us and meet our needs when they arise, but having a relationship is why He created us. I think that having a relationship with an invisible God can be a pretty difficult concept for many people. However, if you have ever felt the feeling I’m describing with a pet or even a child, you have the capacity to experience a relationship with God. He desires a relationship with us. As we well know, the only way to strengthen a relationship is to spend time together. I challenge you to just sit in the presence of God this week. Make time aside from the prayer requests and just rest your head on His knee. Download the YouVersion Bible App. Spend time getting to know your Father in Heaven.
Seasons
Have you ever stopped to think about how different times in your life are similar to how the seasons change? What have you learned in the different seasons of your life? There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. -Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Some people are morning larks, while others tend to be night owls. I’m definitely in the first group. I love to wake up early when the house is still quiet and dark, pour a cup of coffee, light a candle, and nestle into my favorite spot in the front room. This is my devotional time, where I sit near the window and open the blinds so that I can see the first signs of morning as the sun peaks over the trees, read from my Bible, and end with prayer. It gets me off to a good start to my day. There Is Beauty In Every Season Recently, we had a snow day, so I got to sit and rest longer than usual. My devotional ended with this guided prayer. “God, how majestic is your name? When I look at the sky, I see glimpses of your glory. When I spend time in nature, I’m amazed by your creativity. And when I talk to the people you place in my life, I see your beauty reflected in their faces. You are so good and so worthy of all of my honor and praise.” As I prayed this prayer, I stared at the morning sky. It was gray and dull. The sun was coming up, but it was not a bright, warm sky. It was no longer dark; however, instead of an obvious source of glowing light from the sun, the sky was just an even shade of white as the storm clouds masked the sun itself. The snow had accumulated overnight, clung to the trees, and covered the ground. No other colors were visible except the white snow and the dark contrast from the bare trees. It was so simple, yet so beautiful. I was thankful for the extra time to just sit and watch the gentle flakes fall and accumulate on the snow-heavy branches. As little bits of daylight began to hit the fresh snow, it created a sparkle. It was as if someone had sprinkled tiny diamonds on the tips of the trees. My body was quiet and warm as I looked through the window at this perfectly painted winter scene. It was the stuff screensavers are made of. As I appreciated the artwork God had created that morning, my mind went back to the days during this past year when I had sat and looked at the same scene, yet it was so different. Necessary Changes Jesus said, “Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.” – Matthew 24:32 I remembered the summer season, when the daylight hours were plentiful. The sun rose early and set late, as the earth was closer to the sun. The nature around my house was busy, active and full of color. Every day, a new flower was blooming and bursting forth a new color to add to the mural of my flower bed. Each flower bloomed in its own time: first the peonies, then the lilies, and as the last lily lost its colorful petals, the shasta daisies bloomed; filling the flower garden with a fresh coat of white. “As long as the earth endures, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.” – Genesis 8:22 As the season changed into fall, the same view of trees began to turn from bright green leaves into a mirage of rich, warm colors. A tree with beautiful, bright yellow leaves stood in the midst of the warm red and orange tones. It added the most unexpected and beautiful contrast. I was sad to see the final leaves drop to the ground. As winter approached and the days became shorter and the sun rose later and set sooner, a sort of sadness set in. I missed the days of beautiful colors, warm sunshine and signs of life. In the winter, everything slows down and an innate sense of hibernation seems to overtake all living things. The trees have a stark and stripped-down appearance. “He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down.” – Psalm 104:19 Preparing For The Next Season One year, we had unusually heavy snow in the fall before the trees had lost their leaves. The snow stuck to the leaves, and the weight of the heavy snow tugged the branches until a huge portion of the tree cracked under the weight and split the tree. It occurred to me how important and intentional the seasons are. God’s design is perfect. He thought of everything from efficiency to renewal, and He even cared enough to throw in beauty. “See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig
How Do You Share Your Faith In Jesus?
Do you feel a responsibility to share your faith in Jesus with those that are close to you? How can you encourage others to have faith in Jesus too? Who’s First? We had to leave the house for family pictures at 10:45 a.m. on Saturday. I have a beautiful wife and two gorgeous daughters. Between the three of them, they must have been in the bathroom for hours. Outfits. Hair. Make-up. All the stuff girls do to get ready. My girls are still young enough that they need their mom to do a lot of that for them. She had a busy morning. Would you like to guess what time I got in the shower? If you guessed 10:40 a.m., you’re not right, but you’re not that far off either. Christmas gifts work the same way in our house. My wife’s Christmas list includes me, the girls, our parents, a niece, extended family, work gifts, teacher gifts, and likely a bunch of other people I’m not even aware of. There may have been a few times when the both of us were thanked for giving a gift, and I didn’t even know what it was until it was unwrapped. She does a great job. My list is short. It’s her. Even then, I’ve had some off years. Is that how your family dynamic is when it comes to things like family pictures and Christmas gifts? One person only has to get themselves ready. Easy-peasy. No stress. The other is not just getting everyone else ready, but getting everything for everyone else ready. Invite People To The Party One is for themselves. One is for others. Which perspective do you hold when it comes to your faith and knowing Jesus? There’s a difference between viewing your faith as something that is only your own and something you lovingly want others around you to have. Your relationship with Jesus must be incredibly personal. It will not be judged based on your parents’ beliefs, what your Christian friends believe, or what kind of people you follow on social media. It’s between you and Jesus. But, God calls us to care about more than ourselves when it comes to developing that faith. We have to keep our eyes open for others. We have to help others reach that same faith. The way someone likely helped you do. Jesus tells us to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:16-20). We are told to love and serve others (John 13:34-35 and Mark 10: 43-45). We are told to train up the next generation to know God (Psalm 78:4-6 and Titus 2:4-6). That doesn’t mean we neglect our own faith, but it means we have a bigger perspective on what living out that faith means in the first place. It’s not just for you. It’s for others around you, too. There are plenty of passages throughout the Bible that compare the afterlife in heaven to a massive feast, celebrating with God and His people (Isaiah 25:6-9, Matthew 26:29, Luke 14:15 and Luke 22:29-30). May it be your goal and heart’s desire to not only get to that feast for yourself, but to take as many with you as possible. Check out the whole series “One At A Time” to learn about how to love others the way Jesus did. You can do an in depth study with your Lifegroup, a friend, your spouse or by yourself with the One At A Time Discussion Guides.
Who Do You Trust?
Trust, by definition, is the firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something. The Bible says that we are to: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your path.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust can be very difficult for some people for a variety of reasons. Depending on our experiences and relationships, we can struggle with trust at times. If we have been hurt or let down by people, we may tend to take those experiences and feelings into our relationship with God. The problem with this is that, although we as humans are sinful by nature and will inevitably fall short and fail one another, God never will. He is perfect and without sin. He is wise and just. Furthermore, He is all-knowing. He always protects and perseveres. We often misunderstand these attributes when we see them through our own broken sinfulness. At times, we may not trust God because we feel that we know better or that God does not have our best interests at heart. We may even believe the lie that a “no” from God is intended to ruin our fun rather than protect us. I best understand God’s character and desire for me as I parent my own children. Who Knows Better? One fall day, several years ago, I had an experience with one of my children that really shaped our future parent-child relationship. It was one of those days that kept building, and then everything happened all at once. You know the days. I was arriving home from physical therapy and I was tired and in pain. My leg was in a locked brace, so I could not drive myself. My in-laws were helping me struggle my way up the front steps. I was met by an excited child who was asking me if he could go to a drive-in movie with a friend. As I stumbled through the doorway and made it over to the couch to elevate my throbbing leg, the last thing I wanted to do was make a decision and give permission. The problem was that the movie he wanted to see was scary, and my instinct was to give him a firm “No.” We did not allow him to watch scary movies, for good reason. At the moment, he was not thinking about what he was really asking permission to do or the consequences of making a bad choice. He was blinded by the idea of having fun and being with his friend. The situation intensified as my phone chimed. I received a new text message from the mom of my child’s friend. It said, “I don’t mean to pressure you, but is it ok if we take (my child) with us to the movie? We are in your driveway.” Sure, no pressure at all. I really did not want him to go to this movie because I knew it was not the best thing for him. Not only that, but I wanted to call my husband for backup on this unpopular opinion, but he was out of town and unavailable. Giving In To Pressure As my mind swirled, my knee throbbed and the anticipation of my excited kid was palpable. I felt like I was melting down. At that moment, I began to argue with myself. I’m always the fun killer. I say no a lot! Will it really hurt him to see one scary movie? The pressure to compromise was too much and I allowed him to go despite my strong instinct to not allow it. He got home that night and it wasn’t long before the consequences of my mistake were evident. It started with vomiting from too much junk food and ended with a scared boy sleeping in my bed. The guilt and regret I felt was heavy. I knew what was good for him, and I chose to go against my instincts. Now he was suffering. I wished that I had been stronger, more firm, and more confident in my decision to say no. The thing is, I am older and wiser. I could see past the immediate appeal of fun to think about how he was too young to watch something scary. This lasted for several months. He was afraid to go to bed and to be alone. My husband and I had to comfort and reassure him often. The experience wasn’t completely in vain, though. A few months down the road, my son wanted to do something that I did not approve of. When I gave him a no, his initial reaction was not great. He felt this was unfair and that I was just being a fun killer. Everyone else got to do it! I used this opportunity to remind him of the scary movie incident. I reminded him that I compromised, and we both lived to regret it. Trust God Knows Better Furthermore, I explained that he may not always like, agree with, or understand my answer. However, one thing that he could always trust was that I loved him very much and every decision I made was in his best interest. He hugged me and agreed to trust me, whether he liked it or not. I was overcome with a feeling that could only come from the Holy Spirit. It was an understanding that I could not fully explain. I somehow knew that God used this moment to show me how I needed to trust Him as my Father. I may not like His answer and may rarely understand it, but I can always trust that He loves me and will always protect me. “Look at the proud one, His soul is not right within him, but the righteous will live by his faith in the true God.” – Habakkuk 2:4 Trust in a relationship means that you rely on another because you feel
How Do You Trust His Plan?
Have you ever thought about this, trust is not something you can be taught, it’s something you have to experience. It wasn’t until I became a parent that I truly started to understand the relationship God wanted to have with me. In my early years of following Jesus, the Bible was a history book to me. It was a great collection of stories about past events that explained our existence and how the world came to be. It also prophesied how it would cease to exist. Furthermore, it was filled with many dos and don’ts, and the idea that God loves us was sprinkled in there as well. I was comfortable with the fact that God was the Creator, the Savior and the King of Kings. What I did not fully understand is that God is my Father. Then It Happened One summer day when my kids were young, we were doing our boring morning routine and getting ready to eat lunch. The kids were restless because the weather was beautiful, and they wanted to enjoy it. I had planned to pack them up and take them to the beach for a fun day of sand and swimming. I did not tell them the plan because, in the past, when I would tell them about our fun plans too early, the hours leading up to leaving were rough. They would get so excited that they would become time-blind and ask every few minutes when we were leaving. They would focus on all the excitement to come and have no focused attention for the tasks at hand, like getting dressed, eating lunch, brushing their teeth, etc. Out of sheer survival and being outnumbered, I learned to withhold exciting news until closer to our departure time. I knew we had a fun day planned, but my kids did not. They all turned on me quickly. They began grumbling and complaining that “we never do anything fun” and our house is “boring.” I will be honest; it was difficult to keep my composure during these unfair and untrue accusations. I said to the grumpy mob of kids, “Would you just trust me? You don’t know it, but I have a good plan for you today! First, I need you to eat your lunch.” As soon as the words left my mouth, I felt it. I just spoke scripture to my children. “For I know the plan I have for you declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11 Life Lesson Learned My mind left the room for a few minutes as I took in the words I spoke. This is exactly how God, MY father, feels about me. How often do I grumble, complain, and fail to receive His goodness because I do not know the good plan He has for me? It also occurred to me that I don’t tell my children what is coming because, at their ages, they do not have the capacity to handle knowing things that are too far into the future. In order to both protect them and get the best out of them in the moment, I would give them information on a need-to-know basis. As their mom, I knew that I was bearing the weight and responsibility of what the future held. The planning and readiness were on my shoulders, not theirs. What I needed from them was obedience. I needed them to do what I asked of them and trust that I had a good plan and was capable of carrying it out. What a moment of total clarity! That day, I saw God as my Father. I am His child. I need to trust Him and be obedient. As I parented my own children, I could fully relate to who He is.