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Becoming A Church That Builds

As God established the church, the primary objective was to share with the people the loving and saving message of Jesus with the world. However the salvation narrative was never to stop with the individual, but was intended to continue to be shared with the world. In our eyes, we see people like Billy Graham as the successful builders, as he headed out on his crusades to share the message of Jesus with the world. While God certainly used Billy Graham as a great messenger of the Gospel, the power of the Gospel seeks to get all the people involved in building the various parts of the kingdom. 

What starts with the evangelists is necessarily intended to create an effect that dominoes to the rest of the community and births a movement of building in the community. The community around us needs building, with division, poverty, and a sense of disconnect that drains the community of energy. In areas where community could be the the the source of energy in spite of circumstance, now have seen their walls fall into disrepair and they don’t have the energy or understanding of how to build up community. God formed the church to become a church that builds community in communities. Thus when the people have no idea of how to build, the church starts by building using the tools bestowed upon them by God. This is how the Church grew from a sect out of Jerusalem to a Gospel community throughout the world. Nehemiah exemplifies this, because while he spoke a message of rebuilding to the people, it wasn’t his hands that picked up the tools to start the work, but those that heard him and knew what work needed to be done.

1 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. 

3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. 5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord. 

6 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. 8 Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. 9 Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired. 10 Next to them Jedaiah the son of Harumaph repaired opposite his house. And next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah repaired. 11 Malchijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-moab repaired another section and the Tower of the Ovens. 12 Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters. 

13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate. 

14 Malchijah the son of Rechab, ruler of the district of Beth-haccherem, repaired the Dung Gate. He rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 

15 And Shallum the son of Col-hozeh, ruler of the district of Mizpah, repaired the Fountain Gate. He rebuilt it and covered it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And he built the wall of the Pool of Shelah of the king’s garden, as far as the stairs that go down from the city of David. 16 After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, ruler of half the district of Beth-zur, repaired to a point opposite the tombs of David, as far as the artificial pool, and as far as the house of the mighty men. 17 After him the Levites repaired: Rehum the son of Bani. Next to him Hashabiah, ruler of half the district of Keilah, repaired for his district. 18 After him their brothers repaired: Bavvai the son of Henadad, ruler of half the district of Keilah. 19 Next to him Ezer the son of Jeshua, ruler of Mizpah, repaired another section opposite the ascent to the armory at the buttress. 20 After him Baruch the son of Zabbai repaired another section from the buttress to the door of the house of Eliashib the high priest. 21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired another section from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of Eliashib. 22 After him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, repaired. 23 After them Benjamin and Hasshub repaired opposite their house. After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah repaired beside his own house. 24 After him Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section, from the house of Azariah to the buttress and to the corner.25  Palal the son of Uzai repaired opposite the buttress and the tower projecting from the upper house of the king at the court of the guard. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh 26 and the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower. 27 After him the Tekoites repaired another section opposite the great projecting tower as far as the wall of Ophel. 

28 Above the Horse Gate the priests repaired, each one opposite his own house. 29 After them Zadok the son of Immer repaired opposite his own house. After him Shemaiah the son of Shecaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, repaired. 30 After him Hananiah the son of Shelemiah and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph repaired another section. After him Meshullam the son of Berechiah repaired opposite his chamber. 31 After him Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, repaired as far as the house of the temple servants and of the merchants, opposite the Muster Gate, and to the upper chamber of the corner. 32 And between the upper chamber of the corner and the Sheep Gate the goldsmiths and the merchants repaired. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ne 3:1–32.

It begins with leadership; in response to Nehemiah, the high priest rises and begins the building. The first responders to God’s call for Jerusalem were the High Priest and their brothers. They could understand uniquely the call that God had for this place, and began working. Those in contact with their relationship with the Lord understand that they are the first ones that are vital to the building, because God places a specific and special calling on their hearts. With a connection to the Holy Spirit, the people of God must be the first to pick up the tools, even if they do not know what to do, they must show a willingness to respond to God’s call for the community. We as the church, need to hear the words of Nehemiah, and look at all the examples of the people raising to do the work, and respond to the work of leadership and begin the process of building. God has given us a connection through the Holy Spirit that allows us to move in response to the call, which in turn will start a chain reaction that will inspire others to follow suit.

Skilled labor was unnecessary because they relied upon God and not their abilities. The people came from various professions to join together in building the wall, but few of them had any experience in building. However, through the power of God moving in the people the walls and gates were built back up. God imbues the people with abilities far beyond their native talents. This reminds us that we require our hearts to lean on God for the strength to build, which requires our hands to become willing to do God’s work right in this community at this time. There will be excuses and reasons for us to doubt that we are the right people for the job. Just as there were some leaders that refused to join with the builders. However, God asks that you step up and make yourself willing to work for God’s purpose right here. God doesn’t need you to have total training, but rather God requires your willing heart.

The purpose of the people’s building is not that the church or city become praiseworthy but that all praise be directed to God. As the priests finished their work, they didn’t hold a ceremony to pat themselves on the back, but rather they consecrated the work for the Lord, because they did not do this so that the praise would be heaped upon the people, but that it be directed to God. Pride is a dangerous thing. There is a desire to admire the work we have done once we accomplish something. Whether it be something we have done at work, or completing a project around the house, we want to sit and admire it. However, we learn to hand it over to God from the builders in this narrative, as that is what helps continue the building process. With a firm understanding that God’s glory is to be sought and not our humanity, we can place a trust in the outcome that is not merely dependent upon what we can do, but on something that God has established within us. This maintains our connection with God, and guides our hands in the continuing work of the Kingdom building.

In the pattern of the Jerusalemites, God calls out to the church right here in the Antelope Valley to be a church that builds up the Kingdom of God. To become this, we need to look toward our leaders and become leaders ourselves as we stand up to enlist ourselves to the work of the Lord. We will need to set aside our excuses and reasons for not participating, because God guides and leads us to become the church that leans into the power of the Holy Spirit to provide us with the necessary skills and tools to do the work. At some point, we might want to step back and admire the work we have done, but we must continuously remind ourselves that we are citizens of Heaven, and need to direct our praise and others’ praise to God Almighty. God is working to produce in us a spirit of building, which starts with listening and responding to God’s purposes. 

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Strong Hands and Clear Vision

Often, when I walk around my neighborhood on trash day, especially after they have picked up trash, there will be scraps on the street that fell out of the can as it was picked up by the truck. Most of the time, I look at that trash and shake my head, thinking about how it isn’t hard to pick up the scraps that fall out, but they don’t. Simultaneously, I just walk or run by leaving the mess. Complaining is easy, but making a change requires vision and a desire to contribute to solving the problems in our world rather than just becoming a spectator. If we see something wrong, it is not enough to simply point out the problem; we all must work together to fix it. Similarly, strength doesn’t happen by thinking about getting stronger because no person has gotten in shape by only resolving to go to the gym more. We must resolve to get stronger and utilize the resources around us to implement a plan. While the clarity of our vision guides us and keeps us focused on our path, we have to recognize the resources around us and utilize them in our actions. Similarly, Nehemiah saw the state of Jerusalem. Relying on the call God had given him to rebuild the city, he looked around and worked with the people around him, rallying them to join the cause of rebuilding.

Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.” And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant and Geshem the Arab heard of it, they jeered at us and despised us and said, “What is this thing that you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” Then I replied to them, “The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build, but you have no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Nehemiah 2:17-20.

God’s purpose for us is to participate in missions together, not billions of solitary movements going in billions of different directions. Nehemiah recognized that the work of building up Jerusalem again was not his solitary responsibility but required the work of the people in the area to put their hands to the task. He enjoined them in God’s vision for repairing the walls because they shared the vision of the current state of disrepair. Therefore, before we consider sharing God’s mission with others, we must first recognize the great provision God has given us in the people around us. Because even in our most lonely times, God has people beside us that we must lean upon to carry some of that burden because God’s vision is for the community, not just us. After God places us in a community, we must share the marvelous work God has already done. Our words are meant to encourage the people around us, as they show what God has done and will share a vision for what God is doing for our world.

Once the vision is shared, we must get ourselves in a position to do the work. Just as the people’s echoes rose after hearing about the vision, Nehemiah was empowered to begin rebuilding with the strength of many hands. God’s vision rang true in their hearts, and Nehemiah was encouraged to implement the plan. Even though our vision might be clear when we look at any task at hand, we might find ourselves in a place where it feels far too daunting to take on God’s mission. Just as every time I look at my garage, I want to run because organizing it feels as if it might be impossible. However, I know that with the help of the people beside me, it can be accomplished, and if those voices say let’s do it together, it can get done. Just as Nehemiah shared the vision, and the hands of the people were readied to work, we must place ourselves in a position where when we hear the voice of God speak through the echoes of the people, we must be ready to go to work.

Being ready to work is not enough, though; hope is necessary to keep us focused on God’s purpose for the mission in our lives. Nehemiah immediately faced resistance from those challenged by God’s new vision to rejuvenate Jerusalem. However, because God’s hope was foundational to Nehemiah’s vision for Jerusalem, the jeering and clamoring for the work of rebuilding to stop before it had even begun did not discourage the workers; instead, they leaned upon that hope and were able to speak God’s truth to the opposition. Undoubtedly, we will also encounter roadblocks to the success of God’s mission. Sometimes, those roadblocks come from outside the community, with people bringing discouraging words or, worse, actively working to hamper our abilities to carry out the work through legal threats or violence. However, most of the time, just as in Nehemiah’s situation, the roadblocks come from within the community, where the bickering and words attempting to pull people away from God’s mission threaten to halt the work of the community. Our response to any roadblock would be to rely on hope given to us by God. Reliance on our strength or the strength of others will ultimately fail, just as when we place our trust in man-made things, they will ultimately let us down. Nehemiah provides us with an example of not leaning on the king’s words but on hope embedded in the vision of a rejuvenated Jerusalem.

The vision God granted us is like the vision Nehemiah received of a rejuvenated Jerusalem. The clear direction we are called to follow leads to a community that is blessed and full of revival, where people turn from sin into the blessed arms of God. We aren’t simply passive recipients of God’s action in our community; we have been called to share God’s vision with our community, not merely as information but as invitational, so that God’s calling and vision involve their action and empowerment. God’s work is not done to a community but through a community, which Nehemiah was well aware of. He sought the participation of the people in Jerusalem in repairing the walls and restoring the city. Hope can overcome all the roadblocks we face, not because we are particularly skilled, but because we serve a wonderful God.

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It Always Starts With A Prayer

In a world often inundated with unsettling news, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when those events strike close to home. We have an emotional and physical response when the news hits close to home. Our bodies and minds react, but before the waves of despair take hold, we have a powerful tool: prayer. Through this sacred act, we find solace, direction, and a source of strength. Upon hearing of the ruin of Jerusalem, his beloved city, Nehemiah turned to prayer in his grief. His example reminds us that prayer offers a path toward healing and hope, even in the face of devastating news.

4 As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven. 5 And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned. 7 We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses. 8 Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples, 9 but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there I will gather them and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there.’ 10 They are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed by your great power and by your strong hand. 11 O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.” 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ne 1:4–11.

Prayer is a sacred encounter, one that demands honesty and vulnerability. Before we utter a word, we must strip away any pretense or hidden agendas. Any facade we place between ourselves and God prevents us from connecting to God’s ultimate mercy and hope. We approach Him not as actors on a stage but as souls seeking solace and salvation. Our hearts and minds must be bare, exposing our joys, sorrows, and deepest fears. God meets us in our authenticity, inviting us to embrace our true selves, even amidst life’s struggles. In this raw, honest space, our prayers become offerings of our very essence, transcending the ordinary and connecting us to the divine.

Approaching God, we must first recognize our unworthiness to be able to come before the Almighty Creator of the universe. Yet, through His grace, we are invited to draw near. Thus, confession is at the heart of our prayer – recognizing sin’s impact on the world and our part. We approach His throne humbly, not blaming ourselves for humanity’s brokenness but owning our transgressions. Since we have sinned, we recognize that we are inherently part of the cause of the wretched curse sin has wrought on us, but through humility, we bring our confession to the Almighty, who has saved us. Through this, we find the source of our salvation and plead with God for guidance.

Within the Scriptures, we find a timeless conversation between God and humanity, addressing our modern struggles through generations of wisdom. We often find that the Lord answers us through the scriptures when we are seemingly unheard. Just as Nehemiah brought his heartfelt plea to the Lord with humility and the scriptures on his mind. Nehemiah admits his fault through the scripture-filled prayer and understands God’s promise and hope for the future. We must understand that just as imperative as prayer is, we must also immerse ourselves in the scriptures so that the Word of God might come to our minds. While the answer was not a step-by-step plan for solving all the problems of the Jerusalem situation, the answer from Scripture provided comfort and the assurance that he wasn’t alone. His experience reminds us that the Scriptures offer more than solutions; they offer companionship and divine connection.

Like a swift current, life carries us along, sometimes tossing us into unexpected turmoil. Nehemiah’s story illustrates this: faced with the news of Jerusalem’s ruin, he felt the urgency to act yet understood the primacy of prayer. Our lives, too, are marked by imperfections and sorrow, prompting us to seek solace and strength in prayer. Turning to God humbles us, reminding us that we are not masters of our fate but recipients of divine grace. Prayer is not isolation but a conversation nurtured by spiritual practices and a deep connection to scripture. Nehemiah’s humble prayer sparked the restoration of Jerusalem, demonstrating that God’s hope is often ignited not by worldly power but by the heartfelt cries of His people.

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Not Your Dad’s Prosperity Gospel

The Gospel has been manipulated to suggest that we follow Jesus for personal gain. The history of the church in the world is full of people who used the Gospel to enrich their wealth and power, and unfortunately, this pattern continues today. The Prosperity Gospel in the United States is alive and well; we can see it in the gigantic buildings built as monuments to the charismatic preachers and the massive amounts of cash that go toward supporting the lavish lifestyles of those leading these congregations.

In contrast, Jesus asked us to follow His path of sacrifice as we proclaim the message of release for captives and freedom from sin. The prosperity Jesus proclaims for the world does not mean our comfort; rather, we strive to ensure that people understand and experience freedom from the oppressive acts of the world and sin. The church was not called to build monuments and structures, yet these bodies still lead people to the Gospel, even in a circuitous manner. However, the church is reminded not to grow complacent with working with the gifts it has been given and to remember that we are called to outdo one another in giving. Paul leads us in our main focus to give so that the Gospel may reach the world.

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written,

“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever.”

He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 2 Cor 9:6-10.

The work we put in will be the equivalent of that which can come out. Sowing is the work we put into things. If we don’t share the gospel, then people won’t see the Gospel in us. If we act poorly, that is how the world will see us. Farming metaphor: Work needs to be done, and if we don’t work on our relationship with Christ, then we won’t grow in that relationship, which includes our giving. As we look at Jesus’ parable of the talents, we see how Jesus opens up about using the gift of what we have received for growth. As the master gave to the servants, two of them invested and got a return for their investment, but one did nothing with it, noting when God gives us something, it isn’t for us to hoard or hide away but rather use it freely and allow it to multiply in others. When we build palaces of sanctuaries and homes, we ultimately stash away God’s gifts and the giving we make multiplies in the lives of the people in our communities. God gives to us and doesn’t force us to do anything with it, but if we do nothing and see no results, we cannot blame God for that.

However, no giving is compulsory, not even tithing. This is where the church often goes astray because there is the temptation to look at giving as a commercial exchange. God doesn’t create a robotic compulsory following. Giving must come from the heart, and one must give while expecting nothing in return. Our world wants to convert charity into investment. Compulsion is the tactic of the world. We want people to feel as if they have to do something in a particular manner to achieve a specific result, but that is not how God works. God desires our worship.

From the beginning of all existence, God’s creation, sustenance, and redemption intertwine, revealing God’s multifaceted nature. God breathed life into the cosmos as the Creator, fashioning galaxies, stars, and our own vibrant planet Earth. Like a patient farmer, God tends to the fertile fields of the human heart, sowing seeds of hope, love, and compassion. Just as a farmer nurtures crops from seedlings to harvest, God guides us through seasons of growth, pruning away our imperfections and cultivating a bountiful yield of virtue. And in our moments of deepest need, God, the Savior, extends a hand of grace, rescuing us from the depths of despair and leading us toward the light of eternal life. Therefore, we must understand that since everything emanates from God, none of it really belongs to us, and thus, in our ministry, we must be willing to give it all back.

Our focus must begin with an understanding that everything we have belongs to God, and because it all belongs to God, we must be willing to give it all back to God. In no way does God force us to do anything with our gifts because compulsion is a tactic of the world, not of God’s Kingdom. In essence, God shares with us, hoping that we, in turn, will share with others. Using our gifts to alleviate suffering, inspire hope, and foster a spirit of generosity, we actively participate in God’s plan to fill the world with His love and abundance. We become vessels of His grace, conduits through which His blessings flow to others, ultimately bringing glory to His name.

JRMITCH85 Faith, Hope

Watch Out

As Paul wraps up this letter to the Romans, he must know that these may be the last words he delivers to the Roman church. Paul knows that the road ahead of the church will be rocky, as he has experienced himself. We know something about navigating rocky terrain, metaphorically in our church and physically on our freeways. Driving up and down the freeway these days is particularly perilous because of the extensive road work, and someone is always in a hurry. When an accident occurs, or someone loses something from their vehicle, it compounds the problem, leading to further problems because of additional obstacles. The best thing we can do is drive so that we do not add to the problem at the least, but if possible, we should help contribute to a solution to easier driving.

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ro 16:17–20.

Always be on the lookout for those seeking to drive a wedge between followers of Christ between each other. As followers of Christ, it is imperative that we strive to live at peace with one another, and any wedge between us does not come from God. Disagreements will undoubtedly arise between Christians; however, we must always approach such divisions humbly and not allow them to become obstacles to fellowship. Should anyone, through their actions or words, break with fellowship over such disagreements, we break down the pure meaning of the cross, where Christ brought us back into fellowship. 

Always serve Christ in all you do, and avoid selfish ambitions. As followers of Christ, we will have to make some hard decisions about what we need to put our support behind, and when doing that, we need to ask if this is in line with what Christ calls us. Many things appeal to us because they will benefit us personally; however, as Christians, we need to think about the greater impact of what we do because many things look good at the outset, only to lead to situations where our selfishness emerges. When we follow Christ, we must learn to put aside what might be best for ourselves, as Paul exemplified. As Acts came to a conclusion, we learned of Paul repeatedly choosing captivity to share the Gospel. He went to Jerusalem, even though he knew they would arrest him. He appealed to Ceasar when he could have asked for his freedom. He could have escaped captivity but stayed as a testament to Christ. Thus, Paul showed us that the ministry of Christ is paramount.

Always strive after obedience and goodness in our lives. No matter what happens to us, there is always an opportunity to be good and allow the Holy Spirit to transform us into people who honor God by how we live. We will find the temptation to spend more time reflecting and calling out people for their errors and misgivings. Still, in this closing note, Paul invites us not to waste our time on such reflections but rather put our efforts into cleaning up our lives rather than worrying about someone else’s issues. The ultimate influence that we will have in leading people to Christ is reflected in the type of people we are because our obedience to God and our good deeds will speak louder than any words we use. Don’t waste our time using our words to persuade people to faith; rather, be good and bless people with our lives.

While Paul has detailed a lengthy systematic theology for the Roman church and, ultimately, us, his most important message was left for us to concentrate on living at peace with one another and focus on being good people striving to serve Christ. The same rules will follow us in anything we do; if we strive to live well with one another and follow the rules we need to follow, we will be far more persuasive than yelling at everyone for not doing the same with us.  When we are not adversely affected by road rage, we are better drivers and can concentrate on how we can better facilitate driving in hazardous conditions. Even if something happens and we end up in a wreck or face damage, how we handle it should reflect the God we serve. Our ultimate mission in this world is to share Christ’s message of Grace with all humankind, and we can only do that when our focus is on the work of the cross and not on ourselves. Ultimately, God will take care of everything, for the crushing blow to Satan won’t come from violence and might but rather from peace because, ultimately, the power of the cross comes from making peace with the world. Therefore, watch out for your words and actions. They need to reflect the peace of God’s work on the cross, not the violence of Rome’s work on the cross.

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Building Up Our Community

We, as a united community, are called to build a safe and encouraging environment where everyone feels valued and included. Our mission is not just a theoretical ideal, but a practical call to action, inspired by the enduring themes found in various aspects of our culture and faith. It is a collective responsibility that we all share, a mission that binds us together. In the movie Field of Dreams,’ building a baseball stadium symbolizes reconnecting with family and heroes from the past. This act of creation and restoration speaks to a deep human desire to bridge gaps between generations and honor those who came before us. It is a powerful metaphor for the importance of connection and legacy. However, while reconnecting with the past holds significant value, our primary focus must be on connecting with our community in the present. Our mission is to build God’s kingdom here and now, sharing the gospel with those around us. The past can inform and inspire us, but it is in the present that we act, live, and make a difference.

We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ro 15:1–7.

As followers of Christ, we are called to bear the failings of the weak, please our neighbors, and live in harmony. This call to empathy and unity is central to glorifying God and building our community. By supporting one another and working together, we create a stronger, more resilient community that reflects God’s love and compassion. The church, as a safe haven and support system, plays a fundamental role in our lives. This role is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who welcomed and ministered to the marginalized and brokenhearted. As the body of Christ, the church is called to continue this mission by being a place of refuge and assistance for all who seek it. Life is filled with challenges and uncertainties, and many people seek solace and guidance during difficult times. The church, with its peaceful sanctuary, supportive community activities, and personal prayer and meditation, should be a place where individuals can find peace and comfort, a place that reassures and supports them in their journey.

We must build a community where everyone feels safe and encouraged, regardless of background. In this inclusive environment, people can experience God’s love firsthand. By fostering a sense of belonging and support, we help individuals grow in their faith and contribute to the greater good of the community. God’s love and hope are present in our community; we are called to serve and spread that love. This means actively reaching out to those in need, offering support, and sharing the gospel message. Our actions should reflect the unconditional love and grace that God has shown us.

We are tasked with building a safe place where people can feel God’s love and hope. This involves creating an environment where the gospel message is shared openly and freely. We help build up the community and spread the good news of God’s kingdom. God sent Jesus to die for our sins so that we can share the gospel message and spread God’s love to the world. This ultimate act of love and sacrifice is the cornerstone of our faith and the driving force behind our mission. By sharing this message, we invite others to experience the transformative power of God’s love.

It is not enough to create a safe haven within the church; we must also go out into the world to share the gospel message and build up the community. By actively engaging with those around us, we extend God’s love and hope beyond the walls of the church, making a tangible difference in the lives of others. We are called to build a community where everyone feels safe and encouraged. By spreading God’s love and hope, sharing the gospel, and supporting one another, we create a vibrant and thriving community that reflects the glory of God’s kingdom. Let us embrace this mission with open hearts and minds, working together to build a better, more compassionate world.

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We Serve Without Judgment

Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder for many, not merely as a day off from work, but as a sacred moment to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for freedom. In the Christian faith, this concept of sacrifice is deeply entwined with the teachings of Jesus Christ, who called His followers to live lives marked by love, service, and the absence of judgment.

In reflecting on the essence of Memorial Day, we recognize that it is not just about a pause from the everyday, but a profound commemoration of those who gave everything to ensure others could live freely. This principle resonates deeply within Christianity, where service and sacrifice are central themes.

The call to serve without judgment is particularly significant. Reflecting on personal experiences within the church, it becomes clear how easily judgment can infiltrate even the most sacred spaces—like around the church table, where community should flourish. As a child, the delight in receiving sweets from church elders was a simple joy. However, looking back, it is evident that these gestures were about more than just distributing treats; they were acts of kindness meant to foster community, even if the adults were also conveniently not taking leftover sweets home.

13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. 16 So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ro 14:13-19.

Paul the Apostle’s teachings emphasize the importance of unity and non-judgment at the communion table. He points out that no one is worthy on their own—all are made worthy through the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This message is crucial in understanding how we should approach our own interactions within the church and beyond.

Our Christian faith implores us to be agents of love, peace, joy, and hope. In a world rife with division, whether due to political, racial, or economic differences, the church is called to be a beacon of unity and reconciliation. Through service, we are challenged to not only preach the Gospel but to embody it, ensuring that our actions always point others to Jesus.

This notion of service is beautifully illustrated by the impact of figures like Bono and his band U2, who use their platform to break down barriers and address global injustices, reminding us that our influence can and should extend beyond church walls. The majesty of natural wonders like Joshua Tree National Park offers a parallel to our spiritual pursuits. Just as the vast beauty of the park invites exploration and awe, our spiritual journey should be one of constant seeking, welcoming, and companionship. The church’s role is pivotal in this process, not just as a physical space but as a community of believers sharing a journey toward God.

In essence, embracing others without judgment and embodying the peace and hope of Jesus is fundamental to the Christian calling. As we remember those who’ve sacrificed on Memorial Day, let us also commit to being sources of God’s love, channels of His peace, and ambassadors of the joy and hope found in Christ. This commitment to serve, love, and unify is not just our duty but our privilege as followers of Jesus.

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Love One Another: The Remix

There is an eternal fighting between people, which tends to pull our eyes, ears, and minds toward the conflict. We see fighting in politics constantly, leading to deep divisions between our leaders, and fights create wedges between people over meaningless things like movies and sports teams. Unfortunately, division sparks within the church over non-essential dogma. However, in every Gospel, Jesus commands us to explicitly “Love One Another.” Paul reminds us that we must heed Christ’s call to turn from destroying each other to building one another up in His command. The Church needs to be transformed by loving one another, leading to a revival in our communities, towns, and country.

8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. 11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. 12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ro 13:8–14.

“What must I do to be saved?” Just as many people approached Jesus, they also approached Peter and Paul, asking this question. How would you answer if asked? Does our answer align with the way Jesus and Paul both responded? For many years before and after Jesus came, groups have developed rules for finding salvation, each emphasizing something to create a clear delineation between the good and the evil, the saved and the lost. Our insecurity about the salvation offered by Jesus Christ on the cross makes us prone to believe we aren’t doing enough and ripe for those who would take advantage of us. Thus, Jesus was the harshest critic of the religious leaders who preyed on the poor, adding to the scriptures about how they had to fulfill God’s commandments. Pharisees developed walls around faith, but Christ painted a clear picture because others obscured the way to salvation. Therefore, we must strive not to add obligations to others for coming before Christ. Jesus broke down all barriers and invited us to follow the commandments that encapsulated them: “Love God” and “Love One Another.”

“Why were we given commandments?” As the people of Israel sought to cope with life outside of Egypt, God brought them the guardrails to help keep them in a relationship with God. The commandments established the conditions for God’s blessing of His people. This system of rules and ordinances established Israel’s covenantal relationship and, ultimately, all humanity would have with God. When we examine different families, we see a variety of rules and ways of life that ultimately distinguish the way things work in that family from how things work in our families. When I was younger and went to have dinner at a friend’s house, I always paid attention to what my friend was doing to ensure I carried out the ritual correctly. When to sit down, where to sit down, and when it was okay to begin eating—everything was necessary, as I did not want to offend and wanted to be invited back. To this day, when I find myself in a new setting, whether a friend’s home, a new job, or a church, I look around a lot to ensure I follow the protocols correctly. This method also applies to different corporations and churches. How we operate or carry out specific tasks or ceremonies will differ from place to place, but the same intention is behind the actions. Paul points out that we have been given numerous commandments, but they all convey the same message: “Love One Another.”

How we live in public will proclaim what we put our faith in. How well do we show love for each other? The world is watching us to make sure we live up to the message of Jesus because if we don’t, then they will reject us as hypocrites and liars. Paul leads us to Jesus’ message because we must live it out. The importance of this message is highlighted by the fact that there is no point where we have loved “enough” because we should always see ourselves in debt for loving. If we want to try and outdo each other in anything, let it be in loving others. We do nothing out of selfish ambition or for our well-being, but we shower others with love because that is how we best demonstrate that God loved the world. This way of living is the work of light, which brings light and salvation to the world. We must stop worrying and burdening the world with unnecessary standards that we cannot live up to. Share Paul’s message: We should do everything to lift others up. Darkness penetrates through selfishness. When our actions benefit ourselves at the cost of others, darkness consumes and closes our eyes to the work God has planned for us. Anytime we find pleasure at someone else’s expense, this is darkness. The world will judge us by whether we live in light or darkness. Therefore, instead of arguing about whether our children should read Harry Potter or watch the latest Disney movie, we should strive to show people that we love them; only by doing this do we proclaim Christ’s saving grace and live in the light.

The fighting that inevitably breaks out between people of different belief groups must not lead us toward divisiveness and darkness. Still, instead, we are called to be examples of the light. So many people are in the throws of argumentation, and we quickly rise in judgment toward those with differing opinions from ours. The media strives to elevate the outrage toward the other, and we as Christians must be slow to speak our judgment and strive to call for peace. When we hold back judgment and exchange it with being at peace with others, sharing God’s love, and NEVER tire of sharing God’s love, we proclaim the Gospel to all people and live out the call of Christ echoed by Paul in this passage. Through his continuation of sharing the message of Christ in Romans, Paul instructs Christians about letting go of self and striving NEVER to stop loving our community and neighbors, whether they agree with us or not.

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A Life of Constant Sacrifice

Throughout history, the call to live sacrificially has resonated deeply, compelling many to give freely of themselves for the greater good. Leaders of all kinds—military commanders, civil rights advocates, and devoted mothers—have embraced this noble burden, shaping the course of our world through their selfless acts. Consider the poignant example of Jochebed, the mother of Moses, who sacrificed her time with her son so that he might live. This act of profound love and courage ultimately led to the salvation of an entire nation. Yet, the epitome of sacrificial living is found in the life of Jesus, whose ultimate act of selflessness redefined love and redemption. Inspired by Christ’s example, the Apostle Paul exhorts us to lead lives marked by sacrifice, urging us to follow in the footsteps of the one who gave all for humanity. 

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ro 12:1–2.

In Romans chapter 12, Paul transitions from theological exposition to practical instructions on living and worship. He begins by urging believers to present their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, which is their true and proper worship. This foundational idea of living sacrificially sets the stage for glorifying God and uplifting others. Historically, the system of sin and sacrifice aimed to make the people of Israel holy and dedicated to God. Now, through Christ’s example and teachings, we are called to be living sacrifices ourselves. This sacrificial life makes us holy and set apart for God, embodying the transformation and dedication that Paul emphasizes in his guidance for Christian living.

A life of sacrifice profoundly transforms us, making us vessels for God’s glory. This transformation pushes out all selfish desires, replacing them with a deep commitment to glorify God and uplift our brothers and sisters. As our minds and bodies shift from selfishness to selflessness, we become attuned to the needs around us. When our community suffers, our focus instinctively moves beyond our own concerns, compelling us to bring God’s peace and healing to the broken and hurting areas. This selfless orientation not only changes our actions but also redefines our very identity as instruments of God’s love and compassion in the world.

Understanding that sacrifice leads to the transformation of self, we must continuously examine our lives to root out selfishness and strive for constant sacrifice for God’s glory. Through this ongoing testing, we attune our hearts to hear what God desires for our lives, recognizing that God delights in our sacrifices made for the blessing of others. Embracing a life of sacrifice is the path to becoming Christ-like, embodying the love and selflessness that Jesus exemplified. This journey of sacrifice enables us to fulfill Jesus’ command to “go and sin no more,” as we grow in holiness and align our lives with His divine will.

Paul’s exhortation in Romans chapter 12 to live as living sacrifices is not merely a call to action but a transformative journey that redefines our very being. By embracing a life of sacrifice, we align ourselves with Christ’s example, shedding selfish desires and cultivating a selflessness that glorifies God and serves others. This ongoing commitment to self-examination and sacrificial living tunes our hearts to God’s desires, ensuring that our actions reflect His will. As we embody this sacrificial love, we not only fulfill Jesus’ command to “go and sin no more,” but also become conduits of His peace and compassion in a hurting world. Through this profound transformation, we become true instruments of God’s glory, dedicated to uplifting our brothers and sisters and advancing His kingdom on earth.

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Grafted For Beauty

Grafting, a technique used extensively in ancient Rome and often referenced by Paul, has long been employed by both amateurs and professionals to cultivate plants that are not only healthy and vibrant but also creatively tailored for propagation. This method significantly prolongs the life of aging plants by integrating them with newer ones, thereby rejuvenating them and enhancing their vitality. Additionally, grafting boosts fruit production, even in plants that previously had limited output. It introduces diversity into plant life, engendering new varieties that offer unique flavors, improved yields, and increased resistance to diseases and pests. By drawing on this agricultural practice, Paul effectively illustrated how the Gospel integrates the Gentiles into the Kingdom of God, a theme that Jesus frequently highlighted through agricultural metaphors and similes, portraying it as a dynamic and life-giving process.

11 So I ask, did they stumble in order that they might fall? By no means! Rather, through their trespass salvation has come to the Gentiles, so as to make Israel jealous. 12 Now if their trespass means riches for the world, and if their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their full inclusion mean!

13 Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry 14 in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. 15 For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead? 16 If the dough offered as firstfruits is holy, so is the whole lump, and if the root is holy, so are the branches.

17 But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root[c] of the olive tree, 18 do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. 19 Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” 20 That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. 21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. 22 Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. 23 And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. 24 For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree.

Romans 11:11-24 (ESV)

Sin is depicted as a pervasive disease that had severely infected the tree, leading to the unfortunate necessity of discarding some branches. This metaphor reflects how the Israelite nation had misused God’s Law for personal gain at the expense of others, as noted by Paul. Recognizing the dangerous and tempting nature of sin, from which no one is immune, it becomes crucial for us to continually seek God’s deliverance from evil. The pruning of diseased branches by God is a process that applies not just to the Jewish branches, but to all believers; any of us can be pruned if we let sin take root in our lives as it did with the Jewish leaders. It is by grace alone that we are grafted into the divine fold, underscoring the necessity to both proclaim and embody this message of grace, and to earnestly seek God’s healing from the sin that begins to infect our hearts.

Following the theme of spiritual vigilance and connection, it’s critical to understand that our strength originates not from the branches but from the root of the tree—our Lord and Savior. This foundational belief underscores the necessity of relying solely on the roots for nourishment, as they alone have the capacity to sustain and strengthen us. Although the flowers and fruit on the branches may appear appealing and seem to offer sustenance, they provide at most a transient refreshment like a drop of dew. Instead, we must consistently seek to draw our nourishment from the roots, which offer a more profound and enduring source of strength.

Continuing with this growth, when we anchor ourselves in the power of the Almighty, our lives naturally begin to bear flowers and fruit. These blessings are not merely for our enjoyment but serve a greater purpose: attracting others who seek nourishment. As others come to us, we have the unique opportunity to lead them to God, demonstrating how, through grace, we were grafted into the tree. This process is not a testament to our own qualities but a vivid illustration of divine grace that accepts and transforms the “wild” into an integral part of the kingdom. Thus, our journey from being outsiders to becoming nourishing presences within the community highlights the transformative power of connecting deeply with the roots of our faith.

It’s evident that the tree no longer resembles its original form, having been enriched with a variety of “wild” branches. This new diversity is precisely what God’s grace intended, showcasing His power to bring beauty and vitality to a world otherwise marred by sin. The tree, though vastly different from its original appearance, blooms profusely, its flowers and fruits serving as vivid demonstrations of God’s ability to redeem and beautify. Pruning is a critical aspect of maintaining this divine tree, a process that often involves painful cuts to remove sin, which cannot coexist near the healthy, sustaining roots. In this sacrificial act, reminiscent of Jesus’ own suffering, pruning is not merely a survival tactic for the tree but a renewal process that allows it to thrive. Although our “wild” nature might initially set us apart from other branches, when we draw from God’s strength, we too can produce delightful and appealing fruits, different yet enriching.

Moreover, God’s grace enables these previously pruned and wild branches to not only reintegrate but also to innovate within the tree. The new fruit we bear, infused with divine influence, fills the hearts, minds, and souls of those around us with wonder and admiration. This ongoing cycle of grafting, pruning, and flourishing under God’s careful watch creates a dynamic, ever-evolving tapestry that captures the essence of spiritual growth and community enrichment.

God revitalizes His Kingdom by pruning away dead and infected branches, replacing them with new, “wild” branches that infuse the tree with fresh vitality and beauty. This transformative process is a model that the Church must embrace; we cannot cling to past forms of being the church but must instead be open to letting go of the old and welcoming the new life that God introduces. This transition can be uncomfortable, especially when it involves pruning elements that once inspired or empowered us. However, God reminds us that our true strength stems not from these branches but from our roots in Christ Jesus.

The divine plan for the Church extends far beyond our understanding, and resisting this evolution could mean missing out on our intended role within God’s magnificent design. We are each unique, endowed with distinct gifts and potential to bear fruit, and God grafts us into His tree specifically to showcase the splendor of His creativity through the grace of Jesus. Thus, embracing the changes God enacts in the Church is not only about personal growth but also about contributing to the broader display of divine beauty and innovation within the community.