JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

Throne For One

After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” 2 At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. 3 And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald. 4 Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads. 5 From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings and peals of thunder, and before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God, 6 and before the throne there was as it were a sea of glass, like crystal. And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: 7 the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. 8 And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!” 9 And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 11  “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2025), Re 4:1–11.

In a world of eight-second attention spans and fierce brand loyalties, worship has evolved into a daily, counter-formative act that often misdirects our deepest devotion toward sports teams, political parties, and consumer identities. We frequently crown these modern-day royals with a level of passion and allegiance that belongs to the Divine alone, failing to realize that these earthly honors are merely pale, hollow replications of true glory. True worship is not a curated performance for our entertainment, but a conversation initiated by the Triune God. By giving God glory, we intentionally deny it to ourselves and to the ideologies we often treat as idols, thus acknowledging, through a spirit of grace and gratitude, that we are not self-made creatures. This shift in focus requires a radical transition, using the call to worship in Revelation to physically and mentally transport us from the fog of mundane anxiety through the door that is open to us into the vivid scenery of the heavenly realm. As we echo the eternal cry of “Holy, Holy, Holy,” the crowns we once offered to fleeting trends and leaders fall away, replaced by a singular, transformative focus on the only One truly worthy of our praise.

Looking at heaven, John’s vision anchors the universe not in the struggle of human ambition for power but around the central symbol of the Throne. Instead of glancing toward earthly powers scrambling to fill perceived voids of authority, John reveals that the seat of ultimate power is and has always been occupied. This visual scene reveals a God whose character is defined by a combination of Jasper and Carnelian, reflecting an interplay between healing holy light and fiery, judgmental red. Additionally, encircling the seat of sovereign dominion is a Green Rainbow, a vertical, eternal circle that stands in stark contrast to the fleeting arcs of the earth. The halo of emerald serves as a token of God’s Covenant with the world, leading us to understand that God’s mercy is not a secondary thought but a force that informs and encompasses His judgment. While the thunders of divine justice are real, they are forever wrapped in the emerald of grace to ensure that we are forever under His steady and merciful reign.

When we focus on the throne, we ultimately encounter a divine hierarchy that paradoxically levels humanity’s pride by redirecting all glory toward the Creator. At the forefront of the worshipping church are the Elders, who represent the full sweep of the People of God, from the twelve tribes of Israel to the twelve apostles. Though they possess crowns of victory, their defining act is the casting down of those crowns as an acknowledgment that any human authority or achievement is purely derivative and secondary to the Almighty God. The Four Living Creatures, who serve as the ideal of creation by embodying the diverse facets of the created order, echo the actions of the Elders. The Lion represents righteousness through strength used for equity, while the Ox signifies the diligence of tireless service in the cultural mandate. The Man provides the pinnacle of intelligence and sympathy, just as the Eagle offers the contemplation of a high-soaring vision for divine truth. Together, these figures illustrate that worship is not an artificial addition to existence but the natural and intended state of all creation. We are strongly cautioned against rearranging worship to put our own desires at the center. When we recognize that none in humanity possesses inherent worthiness to be worshipped, we finally align ourselves with the cosmic order and find our purpose in the adoration of the One by whom and for whom all things were made.

The Almighty occupies the Throne and exposes the vanity of all earthly contenders. This divine centerpiece serves as a direct rebuttal to the vying powers of idolatry, reminding us that when the Lamb is truly seated at the center of our lives, there is simply no room for any rival authority. This echoes the conviction of theologians, pastors, and followers of Christ that the church must reject any order that claims absolute authority belonging to God alone. Today, we must identify and cast down modern throne usurpers that subtly creep into our sanctuaries and our lives. We often succumb to the consumer idol when we evaluate worship by whether we like the music rather than whether God is glorified, or we mistake a spiritual pep rally driven by marketing and emotional hype for the genuine movement of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps most dangerously, we risk the ideological idol when we allow any political or other dogmatic stance to garner our worship alongside the Lamb on the throne. We are bound to worship God only as he has instituted through his Word and not according to our own preferences or cultural trends. By rejecting the worship of the creation in all its deceptive forms, we clear the way to offer our total devotion to the Creator who alone is worthy of the glory and honor described in the celestial throne room.

Ultimately, worship serves as a mission that does not end with the benediction but begins with a formal commissioning; we do not leave the throne, but are sent by it to act as agents of God’s Throne in a world of pretenders. According to the principles of our faith, each of us is charged to carry the reality of the heavenly realm into the mundane, and to publicly acknowledge and resist any earthly power that demands our loyalty. To fulfill this call, we must embrace the circle of grace even when life feels like crashing thunder, taking the cultural mandate found in the strength of the Lion, the diligence of the Ox, the sympathy of the Man, and the vision of the Eagle into our workplaces and communities. By doing so, we ensure that our lives become a living extension of the throne room, proving that our purpose is found only in the adoration and service of the Creator.

JRMITCH85 advent, Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope, Ramblings

An Unexpected Blessing

Advent is deeply intertwined with the concept of the unexpected, a time when many believe miracles are most likely to occur. This sense of wonder manifests in increased acts of charity and renewed hope for those in need. Popular culture, like Hallmark Christmas movies, capitalizes on this with countless tales of miraculous interventions that save the day. However, true miracles often appear in unexpected forms. Consider in-vitro fertilization, once deemed impossible, now a scientific reality. Similarly, the virgin birth, though belonging to the realm of faith, represents a divine miracle that transcends natural laws. God’s blessings, often beyond human comprehension, unfold in ways we cannot anticipate. For example, the miracle of Christ’s birth was not an isolated event but the beginning of God’s plan of salvation for all humanity.

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 

34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 

35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:26–38 (ESV)

Divine blessings often arrive unexpectedly, disrupting our lives and challenging our understanding of God’s plan.  Mary, a virgin betrothed to Joseph, exemplifies this.  Her virginity, repeatedly emphasized, underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus’s conception.  Designated as “highly favored,” Mary is chosen for a unique role in God’s plan, not through her merit but divine grace.  The angel Gabriel explains that her conception will occur through the Holy Spirit, a divine act symbolized by the “overshadowing” of the Most High.  This metaphorical language evokes God’s creative power and presence, reminiscent of the Tabernacle.  Mary’s acceptance of this seemingly impossible situation demonstrates profound faith.  She trusts God’s power, even when it defies logic, reminding us that God is the God of the impossible.  Her example challenges us to embrace God’s purpose, even when it leads us through uncertainty and challenges our understanding.

The unexpected nature of God’s blessings highlights our unworthiness to receive them. God initiates the encounter, sending the angel Gabriel to Mary in Nazareth, firmly grounding this divine intervention in a specific time and place.  This emphasizes that salvation is not a human achievement but rather the fulfillment of God’s plan.  The angel’s announcement highlights the dual nature of Jesus, fully human through his mother, Mary, and fully divine as the Son of God.  This encounter heralds the fulfillment of God’s promises and the dawn of a new era.  Mary, described as “highly favored,” is chosen as the recipient of God’s freely given grace.  This echoes the Old Testament concept of “finding grace,” where a superior bestows favor on someone undeserving.  Ultimately, Mary’s story reminds us that salvation is a gift, not something we can earn.

Encountering God and receiving His blessings demands that we are willing to participate in the Almighty’s plan for the world. Mary exemplifies embracing God’s plan, even when it seems improbable or defies our understanding.  Faith requires openness to the impossible and a readiness to surrender to God’s will, as Mary did.  Her response was not passive; she actively chose to participate in God’s plan.  This reminds us that divine encounters often come with unique responsibilities.  Like Mary, we are called to be ready to respond and participate in God’s will.  Every divine encounter requires humility, faith, and obedience, acknowledging God’s power and submitting to His purpose.  Ultimately, when we experience God’s presence, we are invited to respond with openness and a willingness to play our part in His unfolding plan.

The angel’s announcement declares that Jesus will be the “Son of the Most High,” inheriting David’s throne and ruling forever.  This establishes Jesus’s divine nature and unparalleled authority, greatly expanding our understanding of God’s kingdom and purpose.  Furthermore, the revelation connects the Holy Spirit’s creative work with Jesus’s identity as the Son of God, linking creation to God’s eternal plan. Jesus’ birth reinforces the concept of grace, where God bestows unmerited favor and assigns us unique roles in the Divine purpose. Mary’s response serves as a powerful model of humility and obedience.  She understood that God’s favor often comes with significant challenges and potential suffering.  Despite the personal cost, Mary willingly accepted God’s plan, exemplifying how we should embrace divine blessings and callings, even when they disrupt our lives or lead us down difficult paths.  Her unwavering faith inspires us to trust in God’s wisdom and surrender to His will, even when faced with adversity or uncertainty.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope, thanksgiving

The Walk

Walking around our community, I have noticed a much greater number of fences that have gone up. While there may be a number of reasons for this, such as keeping out solicitors, or as a deterrent for crime, it has certainly made it more and more apparent that we are isolating ourselves from each other. Sin and ingratitude have built up fences between us and God, and often, those fences seem insurmountable. Due to our flaunting of God’s commands we have even isolated ourselves from the Almighty. Fortunately, Jesus’ sacrifice opens a gate in the gap and allows us to enter, even though we do not deserve it. As we recognize the blessed offering from God, we must learn to accept the gift, and walk in a way that is full of thanksgiving and joy, full of light and right living. Psalm 118 exemplifies how we are to walk with God.

19 Open to me the gates of righteousness,

     that I may enter through them

     and give thanks to the Lord.

20 This is the gate of the Lord;

     the righteous shall enter through it.

21 I thank you that you have answered me

     and have become my salvation.

22 The stone that the builders rejected

     has become the cornerstone.

23 This is the Lord’s doing;

    it is marvelous in our eyes.

24 This is the day that the Lord has made;

     let us rejoice and be glad in it.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Psalm 118:19-24.

In the darkest moments, God provides an opening to grace and salvation. Though Israel did not deserve the graciousness shown by God, through their constant failing to live up to God’s Law, God kept a remnant alive to come back, and God once again accepted their sacrifice. Sin proves to be a powerful draw away from righteous living. Sin allows darkness to cloud our judgment, but God directs us to the gate through Christ’s righteousness and saves us from sin. While salvation is ultimately found in Christ, God calls the people to sanctification and walking in the light of righteousness. Righteous living must define our lives, which requires believers to step away from sin and live in God’s peace with the world. By doing this we not only fulfill God’s calling for our lives, but we show by our walk that we are thankful for the life and sacrifice of Christ. Gratitude is an essential component of walking in righteousness. For without gratitude, we cheapen the grace received, and walk away from the life we are called to by Christ.

The temptation to walk away from God’s calling often comes in the midst of uncertainty or fear and we look elsewhere for answers. However, these times are opportunities for the Almighty God to prepare us for service. When we face rejection and fear, God makes us ready to be used for the glory of God. Unfortunately, we are not always going to find acceptance, and we are urged to remember that Jesus was rejected, but God used Jesus to transform the world. When the world knocks us down, God lifts us up to become something greater. We need to learn to prepare our hearts for what God is going to do with us individually, and corporately as a church. Transformation is made possible through faith in Christ, who delivers us from sin and death. That grace shared with us reminds us that even when we are struggling to keep walking in the light, through the power of Christ we walk with confidence as we follow in His footsteps. Therefore, we must even know that our gratitude flows from the amazing grace of God in Christ.

A key to gratitude is the reminder that there is always reason to give thanks and rejoice because we are the beloved of the Creator. Though we don’t deserve it, God smiles upon us each day and invites us to look up as we make ourselves more dependent on God, and relinquish our anxieties and fears. This perspective reminds us that each day is a gift from God, and walking in righteousness involves living each day in joyful gratitude for His salvation. “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it,” becomes more than simple liturgy, and infuses our soul with joy. With joy we understand that walking in the light is an active choice we must make each day because darkness begs us to yield to it and flee from the light. God goes to great lengths to show us that we are cared for and loved, we need to walk in such a way that we show off our belovedness. For when we do this, our community is ministered to in a way that the Gospel flows from us and into the hearts of those witnessing the grace and peace present in our steps and actions.

As we regularly reflect on the magnitude of God’s love and the salvation that Christ secured for us, we understand that the walk of faith starts with Christ tearing down the wall and opening the gate for our salvation. Therefore we are called to express our thanks through prayer, worship, and obedience. When we do this our hearts seek to live righteously in every area of your life. This includes your relationships, work, finances, and personal conduct. Thus it is imperative that we strive to align our thoughts, words, and actions with God’s will. Nothing is more important than our walk with God; every aspect of our life must reflect a transformation and an understanding that God has a purpose for us. We are called to live a life that honors God and reflects the transformative power of His grace. You can walk in righteousness and thanksgiving, experiencing the fullness of joy and purpose that He intends for us, and through this the whole community can be lifted up through the power of God moving through us.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, thanksgiving

We’ve Been Delivered

Thanksgiving usually gets confined to that brief window between Halloween and Christmas. With it, we think of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and an abundance of food that everyone at least satiated and most likely a bit stuffed. The holiday invites us to reflect upon our thankfulness. At my parents’ home last year, my niece invited us to write down items for which we were thankful. This gesture reminds me that often, we need to look at thankfulness with the heart of a child. However, throughout the scriptures, there are calls and reminders that thankfulness is necessary throughout the year. We have much to be thankful for in all circumstances, and one of our primary focuses should cause us to look at God’s blessings on us even when we have done nothing deserving of anything. The Psalmist leads us toward thanksgiving because when we are in need, God provides deliverance from our struggle, not because we are good or deserving, but because God is good and loves us abundantly.

107 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, 

for his steadfast love endures forever! 

2  Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, 

whom he has redeemed from trouble 

3  and gathered in from the lands, 

from the east and from the west, 

from the north and from the south. 

4  Some wandered in desert wastes, 

finding no way to a city to dwell in; 

5  hungry and thirsty, 

their soul fainted within them. 

6  Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, 

and he delivered them from their distress. 

7  He led them by a straight way 

till they reached a city to dwell in. 

8  Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, 

for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

9  For he satisfies the longing soul, 

and the hungry soul he fills with good things. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Ps 107:1–9.

God’s enduring love is always present with us, regardless of our circumstances, and it is always good. It is this gift that the Psalmist directs our hearts to, first and foremost; therefore, our focus in any circumstance must direct us back to focus on God’s providence and mercy. Regardless of where the Israelites are, God shows His followers love by guiding us and leading the people back to the Almighty. This is the repeating refrain of the psalm. No matter what situation we find ourselves in, we can always rely on God’s love and faithfulness. He is always there to deliver us. That deliverance is not temporary nor dependent on some beneficent action on our part. Instead, it comes directly from the grace imparted to the people through the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Due to God’s enduring love, we are directed to worship and thank God for delivering us from our circumstances and granting us hope for our future, providing us with a constant source of reassurance and comfort.

When we find ourselves in a precarious position, God hears our cries for mercy and help. The psalmist describes people in distress: lost in the wilderness, hungry and thirsty, imprisoned. But when they cry out to the Lord, He hears them and delivers them from their troubles. We can always pray to God, no matter how difficult our circumstances may seem. The Almighty hears our cries, and God provides us comfort, mercy, and peace when we seek shelter in God’s arms. When we are backed into a corner, the temptation may be to bargain with God, promising to be better than the person we were if God helps us out of the jam. However, that contradicts the prayers and cries God asks of us. Instead, we come before the Almighty with thankful hearts and a spirit of gratitude, requesting deliverance because we recognize God’s merciful heart. 

God delivers us from our physical troubles, but more significantly, God’s deliverance heals us spiritually so that we are transformed into a new creation. The Psalmist recounts that the people were in need and that God had led them gently until that need was fulfilled. This type of fulfillment doesn’t simply create a reliance upon the Almighty God but elicits a response toward transforming their minds toward worship and thanksgiving. Not only does God deliver us from trouble, but also fills our physical and spiritual needs. The Almighty satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry stomach. This speaks to God’s abundant provision and desire to bless people. Once our needs are met, God uniquely touches our hearts so that we may respond to this goodness with gratitude and thanksgiving. These transformative experiences help lead us to a life focused on fulfilling God’s call through worship, prayer, and thanksgiving, inspiring us to live a life of gratitude and service.

Ultimately, Psalm 107 calls each of us to thank God for His goodness and mercy. We thank God for hearing our prayers, delivering us from trouble, and providing for all our needs. Our minds should be focused on acts of devotion, regular prayer, and studying sacred scriptures. These practices help us connect with the Almighty God, cultivate gratitude, and reflect on the blessings in our lives, keeping us engaged and connected to our faith. For God’s enduring love is with us at all times and in all seasons. Whenever we find ourselves in times of trouble we approach the Almighty with hearts full of gratitude and a spirit of appreciation, seeking deliverance. Recognizing God’s compassionate nature, we humbly request His divine intervention. With thankful hearts, we can recognize the love of God has always carried us out. God desires us as followers to not only come before the Almighty when in trouble, but with thankful hearts always lean into the mercy seat, and transform into a new creation that honors God, loves people as God loves people, and worship the Almighty through living our life as an act of worship.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

Only Your Best

Some weeks start with an exhausted body and mind, and I doubt what I will be able to accomplish. Entering with a fatigued or negative mindset adversely affects my work output, and I simply do not give my maximum effort. However, this lack of doing my best contrasts with how God requires us to live because our life reflects our worship of the Almighty. Many religious traditions today encourage members to tithe (give 10% of their income) or make regular charitable donations to support their religious communities and those in need. This practice mirrors the biblical practice of giving a portion of one’s resources to support the church’s or faith tradition’s work. While this is often seen as the minimum with which we serve the church’s work, God requires us to examine the purpose and act of giving as reflecting worship. After confessing their sins and the sins of their ancestors and hearing the law, the people rededicated their worship through giving. No longer was giving seen as something optional; instead, giving to the church became a vital act of worship. God’s abundant mercy, shown by allowing the people to return from exile, required a response that was recompense. Therefore, the people obligated themselves to give their best to God, as shown in Nehemiah 10.

We obligate ourselves to bring the firstfruits of our ground and the firstfruits of all fruit of every tree, year by year, to the house of the Lord; also to bring to the house of our God, to the priests who minister in the house of our God, the firstborn of our sons and of our cattle, as it is written in the Law, and the firstborn of our herds and of our flocks; and to bring the first of our dough, and our contributions, the fruit of every tree, the wine and the oil, to the priests, to the chambers of the house of our God; and to bring to the Levites the tithes from our ground, for it is the Levites who collect the tithes in all our towns where we labor.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Nehemiah 10:35-37.

God requires the best of our work, reflecting our worship of God. To exemplify this, as part of their worship, the Jerusalemites committed to bringing the first and best of their crops and fruit trees to the house of the Lord annually, demonstrating their gratitude and recognition of God’s provision. To ensure we have the same attitude, even in our most worn down and depressed state, we must recall that God’s providence never fails us or leaves us and that God calls us to something higher in our giving and our working. God loved us, and now we work for the Almighty and give to the Almighty in all circumstances. While the people proclaim to give to God in the ecstasy of accomplishment and worship, we must ensure we keep the same momentum and spirit in our times of defeat and despair. God calls us to give our best in both victory and defeat and everything in between.

Everything belongs to God; therefore, we should not think of anything as belonging to us. Understanding that worship connected to their relationships, the people of Jerusalem vowed to dedicate their firstborn sons and the firstborn of their animals to God, acknowledging His sovereignty over all life and fulfilling the requirements of the Law. This extends to our time and belongings; when we back up and realize that we have committed our lives to God, we no longer rely on the perfect situation to be our best for God. To worship God means that we understand that it cannot stop, nor can we turn off our worship, but everything that comes out of us should be an act of worship. Let it go. We want to hold onto and control all the variables in life so that everything will align perfectly so that we can get the best in life. However, God asks us to relinquish the reigns of our life to God as we worship God. This requires a new mindset that doesn’t control but realizes that we belong to God, and in that, we find hope, and the power of that hope leads us to be the best we can be every day.

God has given us abundantly; therefore, we should give everything to God with joy-filled hearts because God knows how to use our resources better than we do. In Nehemiah, the people of Jerusalem pledged to give a portion of their produce to the priests and tithes of their harvest to the Levites, ensuring the support of those who served in the Temple and religious leadership. Today, many congregations financially support their religious leaders, recognizing the value of their service and enabling them to focus on their spiritual duties. This practice aligns with the biblical idea of providing for the priests and Levites. However, beyond financial support, the church needs to partner with its leaders and spread God’s message to the neighborhoods and communities. Jesus worked to break down the barriers between priests and God’s followers; now, we all have the ability and mandate to give the best of our work directly to God. We do this by sharing the Gospel with the world.

The concept of first fruits, originating in agrarian societies, remains relevant today and can be expressed in several ways. One way is to dedicate a portion of one’s paycheck to God or a charitable cause, symbolizing the offering of one’s initial earnings. Another way is to present the first fruits of creative endeavors, such as art, music, or writing, as an act of worship. Furthermore, setting aside time each day for prayer and spiritual reflection allows individuals to offer the “firstfruits” of their time to God. The initial part of a harvest is typically the best because it represents the most mature and ready part of the crop. Similarly, the best part of our work reflects our capabilities, competency, and commitment to excellence. It is essential to strive to consistently offer God our best, regardless of circumstances. Rather than allowing circumstances to dictate our approach to the day, we should focus on worshipping God through our work, sharing with others, and living in a way that reflects our faith.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

We Messed Up

Amongst the most challenging phrases to utter are the three words “I was wrong.” Pride or the fear of repercussions may hinder these words from naturally flowing from our mouths. However, particularly in the presence of God, we must acknowledge that we have all sinned and made mistakes. Without admitting our failures, we risk repeating them or leading others into the same painful mistakes we have experienced. Therefore, our response to the Gospel must be that we need it as much as anyone else. After hearing the law in Nehemiah, the people responded with a sincere confession. They recognized that the appropriate response to God’s favor was to express remorse. Instead of making excuses or rationalizing their failures and those of their ancestors, they acknowledged their sinful nature, recognizing that they came from a lineage of sinners who desperately needed God’s redemption.

But they and our fathers acted presumptuously and stiffened their neck and did not obey your commandments. They refused to obey and were not mindful of the wonders that you performed among them, but they stiffened their neck and appointed a leader to return to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them. Even when they had made for themselves a golden calf and said, ‘This is your God who brought you up out of Egypt,’ and had committed great blasphemies, you in your great mercies did not forsake them in the wilderness. The pillar of cloud to lead them in the way did not depart from them by day, nor the pillar of fire by night to light for them the way by which they should go. You gave your good Spirit to instruct them and did not withhold your manna from their mouth and gave them water for their thirst. Forty years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing. Their clothes did not wear out and their feet did not swell.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Nehemiah 9:16-21.

Humanity’s propensity to rebel, even when it goes against our best interests, is a recurring theme throughout history. The Hebrew people’s repeated disobedience and rebellion serve as a poignant illustration of this tendency, emphasizing our innate inclination to stray from God’s commandments despite witnessing His mighty acts of deliverance and miraculous intervention. As we reflect on our own lives, we often find ourselves looking back with a nostalgic lens, selectively remembering positive moments while conveniently forgetting our mistakes. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the reality of our sinful nature and the fact that we all deserve the ultimate punishment of death. Yet, in His abundant grace and mercy, God lovingly intervenes, carrying our burdens and offering us redemption. If we truly embrace the Word of God and the Gospel message, we must ensure that our hearts bow in humble obedience and reverence. For we have sinned and justly deserve punishment, yet God has chosen to love us and deliver us from the consequences of our sin.

Amidst our transgressions, we are compelled to acknowledge our acts of rebellion. This passage illuminates God’s unwavering love and readiness to forgive, despite our shortcomings. This divine attribute encourages us to confess, assuring us of compassion and restoration upon sincere repentance. Our transformation from sinful ways begins with the acknowledgment of our sins. To prepare ourselves for God’s service, we must understand not only our sinful nature but also the need for profound reliance on Him. Our inherent rebellious nature makes it easy to deviate from God’s path. This deviation can often occur without conscious awareness, as we may firmly believe we are steadfast in our principles for God, while in reality, we are driven by selfish interests. Confessing our rebellion allows us to recognize our fallen state and humble our pride, paving the way for God’s mercy and light to illuminate our path.

Despite our rebellious nature, God’s unwavering presence guides us toward enlightenment. The passage emphasizes God’s continuous provision and direction throughout the people’s wilderness journey. He provided sustenance, hydration, guidance, and protection, demonstrating His commitment to sustaining and nurturing His people, even when they falter. God’s love remains constant despite our failures. Instead, He extends mercy and peace during our open rebellion. Therefore, when we turn away from rebellion, God is already present, guiding us further into the light and away from darkness. All the while, He reminds us that we don’t need to stray from grace, mercy, and peace because in the Almighty God, we find everything we need. With gratitude in our hearts, we respond to this grace with confession and a fervent desire to embrace the Gospel as we move forward. To do this effectively, we must take special care to keep the Gospel close to our hearts, leaving no room for rebellion to enter.

Through our sinful actions, we have fallen and distanced ourselves from God. Acknowledging our misdeeds is crucial, as it allows us to embrace God’s grace and mercy. However, upon confessing our sins, we gain a profound understanding of God’s love, transforming our sinful ways into obedient devotion. This act presents an opportunity for each of us to cast aside our pride and humbly approach the Almighty. God extends an invitation to all, regardless of the depths of our transgressions, to turn to the gospel and embrace His mercy. We then respond by recognizing our shortcomings and rejecting the falsehoods of pride that prevent us from accepting God’s promises. Begin by confessing past sins, allowing God to guide the church into a future illuminated by His grace and compassion.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

What Do You Want?

When my family doesn’t have a lunch or dinner planned out, we find ourselves asking the dreaded question, “What do you want?” The question is dreaded because we approached this time of eating knowing full and well that we would have to make a decision, but no one stepped up and gave a preemptive answer to the question. However, the reasons for not giving a proper answer come from diverse reasons. The youngest child doesn’t answer because they have found their responses rejected every time and don’t want to be rejected again. Another child doesn’t answer because they don’t want to offend anyone with their selection. One parent doesn’t want to answer because they feel as if they must make all the decisions, and they have decision fatigue. There are myriad reasons why any of us refuse to answer that question. Still, no one answering the question often results in the family going to a place that is comfortable to everyone but not desirable to anyone.

Going to church on Easter Sunday is rarely a choice made by asking, “What do you want?” However, on most other Sundays of the year, we might question why we should go to church or why we should go to a specific church. The answers don’t come as easy for many, but if we dig into the rationale for attending a church or a service, we would also find many different responses. Some would say this is the closest church to them, while some say they love the worship band, others the traditions, and some say the pastor or even the programs at a particular church. Many of these are the things that brought us to the doors of a local church, but what we really want is Jesus.

Jesus brought the women to the tomb on the first Resurrection Sunday. It was customary to mourn at the tomb, and the Gospels tell us of the women who came to carry out the ritual and to help find closure on the death of their loved one. However, they got a surprise that forced them to reframe how they asked the question, “What do you want?”

Let us look at how the Gospel of John frames this encounter:

Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples went back to their homes. But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Jn 20:1–18.

The text above focuses on four individuals and how they would answer the question, “What do you want?” Mary Magdalene, John and Peter, and Jesus all instruct and guide us as we walk through our own queries. Whether we find ourselves identifying with Mary Magdalene or John and Peter, Jesus encounters us as we seek something in this world.

Mary Magdalene wanted answers. Outcast from much of society she found something in Jesus that gave her purpose and life. Jesus treated her with mercy, providing hope in the midst of the brokenness that showed her that she was not simply confined to the type of life that the world sought to entrap her, as she came from a certain place she would only be capable of a lower status in society. Some of us can certainly identify with Mary Magdalene, as we feel trapped by certain walls that have come up around us, and we do not feel as if we can break free from that confinement. We want free from the trappings of this world that have only brought us pain and frustration. We come to church looking for this freedom, just like Mary Magdalene.

Even when we find it, the world takes it away. Just as Jesus was crucified, it left the women, and particularly Mary Magdalene saddened and grieving. At the tomb, she sought to express grief, and find closure in hopes to find joy again. However, as she found the tomb empty, she initially felt robbed of the opportunity to grieve and sought the help of Peter and John to understand what was going on. We often want to understand what’s going on around us, and seek answers from others that we perceive to be more wise, or those that we think may have access to answers that elude us. However, oftentimes the answers that those around us provide only leave us with more questions, as Peter nor John gave Mary Magdalene any comfort.

Maybe we are Peter and John. Followers from the beginning, thinking we have it all figured out until the rug is pulled out from underneath us when our teacher, our hope, and our Lord left us on the cross. We thought Jesus was the answer, but what do we do now that Jesus is gone. Now we that the tomb is empty, and what are supposed to make of that? Peter ran all the way in, and John waited at the door, but neither got an answer. Many a Christian approaches striving for answers to questions, but when the answers aren’t readily available we go away to our comfort, but Jesus isn’t done with us.

Coming back to the tomb we find Mary Magdalene, staying there in her tears, where she encounters Jesus, and all she wants to do is cling to Him, because she does not want to let go. The last she saw Him he was lifeless, and now He is full of life. As she was not satisfied with the lack of answers, in her tears Jesus revealed Himself to her, and Jesus wants to reveal Himself to us here. What is troubling you? What do you want? Jesus reveals that there is peace for our sadness, and hope for our pain, which is precisely why He went to the cross. Jesus wants there to be peace in our world and hears the tears of those caught in the stress and disorder of our world. What does Jesus want? He wants us, in our brokenness, with our tears, and immersed in the ugliness of the world, Jesus wants us to come to the foot of the cross and be washed in His blood. He will turn our tears to joy, our pain into peace, and our hurts into hope. Through the love of the Almighty we are all welcome.

Now I ask you, “What do you want?” Right here, and right now, Jesus is present and asks us that question as we approach the places of death and darkness. On a Sunday nearly 2000 years ago Jesus transformed the symbols of death and destruction into beacons of hope for a world striving and seeking answers, freedom, and joy. In the light of Christ’s resurrection on the third day, no matter what we want, Jesus is the answer.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

No Room For Sin

Our world has innumerable things vying for our attention. God beckons us to prioritize Him above all else in the cacophony of distractions clamoring for our attention. Yet, sin subtly creeps in, luring us away with its enticing choices. Though the offerings on sin’s buffet may seem appealing, they ultimately leave us unsatisfied and longing for more. When we align our lives with God, the Holy Spirit fills us with goodness and righteous thoughts, offering us both satisfying and tasteful nourishment. However, sin seeks to divert us from this path, leading us back into confusion and offering us a buffet filled with cheap and empty sustenance. It is in recognizing the true fulfillment found in God’s presence that we can resist the allure of sin’s deceptive offerings and feast upon the richness of His grace.

We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions.

Romans 6:6-12 (ESV)

Sin is the manifestation of humanity’s inability to adhere to the divine principles set forth by God. It beckons us with its allure, enticing us with promises of fulfillment and satisfaction. Much like succumbing to the temptation of junk food when we falter in our diet goals, sin presents itself as a quick fix for our spiritual hunger. Yet, just as indulging in unhealthy snacks only leaves us feeling unsatisfied and remorseful, sin ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness and separation from God’s goodness. It is a constant struggle, as we are drawn to sin when we fall short of God’s standards, seeking solace in temporary pleasures rather than seeking true fulfillment in His grace and guidance.

Even in the grip of temptation, the sacrificial act of Christ’s death on the cross serves as our ultimate liberation. His selfless sacrifice breaks the chains of sin that entangle us, granting us freedom from its seductive grasp. It is akin to being transported from a realm of empty calorie treats to the exquisite ambiance of the finest restaurant, where the most delectable and nourishing cuisine awaits. No longer are we enslaved to the fleeting pleasures of sin; instead, we are invited to partake in the abundant and fulfilling feast of God’s grace. Through Christ’s redemptive sacrifice, sin’s power over us is nullified, and we are empowered to walk in righteousness guided by His love and mercy.

As beneficiaries of His boundless grace, we are called to forsake the allure of sin and embrace the abundant joy found in Christ. There is no justification for returning to the shackles of sin when our souls are filled with the overflowing joy of His presence. Once we have tasted the richness of God’s hope and love, there is no room left for the empty indulgences that sin offers. God’s nourishing sustenance strengthens and uplifts us, while sin leaves us perpetually hungry, chasing after fleeting pleasures that never truly satisfy. In the banquet of God’s grace, we find lasting fulfillment, leaving behind the hollow cravings of sin and death.

Let us forsake the cheap buffet of sin and instead embrace the endless gourmet meals in God’s abundant grace. Through Christ’s sin-conquering death, we are included in His sacrifice and His life-saving resurrection. Therefore, we are called to live as people of the resurrection, constantly turning away from sin at every opportunity. Just as Christ triumphed over sin and death, we are empowered to walk in the newness of life, liberated from the bondage of sin’s empty promises. Let us embrace the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection, living each day in the light of His victory and boldly rejecting the enticements of sin that seek to ensnare us.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

The Promise

As kids, our promises begin with promising to do more chores in exchange for a bigger allowance or promising your dessert in exchange for a baseball card. The older we get, we start promising more in exchange for more, for example, promising to do a job in exchange for payment. Even further, we promise banks to repay our loans in exchange for large sums of money to purchase vehicles and homes. These promises are only made between parties that trust each other, and businesses and individuals are given scores to determine trustworthiness. Our behavior amid these contractual promises will determine the direction in which those scores move. In personal relationships, we don’t quite have the same type of scoring system, but especially in a marriage, we must have faith that the person will honor their promise. In all of our human relationships, faith in another may ebb and flow, but Paul reminds us of the faith of Abraham, and how with God we are called to have the utmost faith.

13 For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. 14 For if it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. 15 For the law brings wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression. 16 That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring—not only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, 17 as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”—in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. 18 In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, “So shall your offspring be.” 19 He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (since he was about a hundred years old), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah’s womb. 20 No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, 21 fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. 22 That is why his faith was “counted to him as righteousness.” 23 But the words “it was counted to him” were not written for his sake alone, 24 but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, 25 who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. 

Romans 4:13-25 (ESV)

Abraham’s faith in God predates the Law given to Moses on Sinai. Therefore, the promise God made to Abraham wasn’t because of adherence to a set of rules but was given as an act of God’s providential grace. As we consider how we prioritize our lives, we should understand that God promised Abraham would be the father of many at the age of 100 and that God would never leave him because Abraham had faith. When we prioritize faith over pride in a law that we could never be perfect enough on our own, we stop pushing God’s promise away and begin to embrace and be embraced by God’s promises. Thus, our work must focus on building faith over strict adherence to the law because righteousness flows out of faith, while legalism is birthed out of the law.

Through legalistic behavior, the law that was provided as a gift to the people to maintain their connection to God, people were blocked from a connection with the Almighty due to people building walls keeping the outsiders out. While the law was always intended to outline how we could keep ourselves within the righteousness of God, it was never intended to be used to curse people and push them away. The community was the intended audience for the law, and not the individual; individually we have always missed the mark and sinned, and the law was intended to be used collectively to lift up the community avoiding individual shortcomings. Therefore, we were called to place our faith in God, and the community God established with the promise, which leads to our future hope.

With a mindset focused on hope, Abraham received the promise of God. Abraham had confidence in God, and because of his faith he was assured that God would not be deterred by his limitations. Even though he was an older man and had an older barren wife, the hope elevated the promise to providence, and grew the faith of Abraham, which increased the righteousness surrounding the situation. This faith serves as an example to each of those in the community of faith to sow hope in our community as we bring people to God’s goodness and share with them the righteous promise found in God.

God’s promise frees the people from the strictures pronounced by the law, and provides hope of a new life in faith that produces righteousness that the law failed to bring forward. The individual’s quest to fulfill the law keeps falling short of the purpose and promise, and descends quickly into a legalism that ultimately binds us to our sin. However, the hope found at the cross, breaks the chains of legalism, and encourages living in faith that produces righteousness. Through righteous living, we hear God’s call to bring our community to the throne of grace, where they can rest in hope and grow in faith, which in turn produces righteousness.

JRMITCH85 Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope

The Gift

When I was younger, I loved Christmas and my birthday because it meant that people would give me presents. I didn’t have to do anything special; I just asked for something, and magically it would appear. While my baser mind would have thought that I may have done something to deserve the gift, the truth was that I was born into a loving family that cared for me and wanted to bring a smile to my face by giving me a gift. Now, as I have transitioned to become the parent in the scenario, there is probably nothing my kids could do or say to make me not want to fulfill their wants and desires through gift-giving. 

Unfortunately, another side has blossomed in me as I have become an adult; I might be one of the worst people to get a gift. There is nothing that I would ask for that I cannot and will not simply buy myself. Part of this is that I am impatient, and another part is that I am uncomfortable with others getting me things. Even though I love the holidays and all the pomp and celebration, I could always do without the part where I am given gifts. However, there is a lesson for me, and those like me, to be patient and allow others to share a blessing.

Similarly, Paul reminds us that GRACE is a gift. As a gift, there was never anything we could have done to earn due to our disqualification in sin. Thus, we should be pleased to know God takes care of us, just as a perfect parent to handle the struggles that come by sending Jesus to Earth to offer us the gift of justification and salvation. Paul outlines this for us in the heart of this passage in Romans 3.

21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. 

Romans 3:21-26 (ESV)

The Law, a gift bestowed upon humanity, is a testament to God’s righteousness and guides how to treat one another while honoring our Creator. Through its revelation, the Law illuminates the holy character of God and promotes understanding of sin. It establishes righteous living as the standard for human thriving, showcasing God’s goodness. Both the Law and the Prophets bear witness to the revelation of God’s righteousness, separate from the requirements of Jewish law. Scriptures testify to the goodness of God and humanity’s yearning for it. The Law furnishes a framework for righteousness, with the prophets correcting deviations to realign people with divine principles. Paul views the Law as a delineator of boundaries, delineating a distinctive religious and lifestyle pattern for those within its confines. God intended the Law as a means for people to consecrate themselves to Him and embody His righteousness as a beacon to the world. However, like a child who abandons a toy once its novelty fades, the people disregarded their special status within the Law, neglecting their obligations as its adherents.

When Adam sinned, humanity lost the reflection of God’s image, setting the stage for a narrative of ingratitude and self-reliance. Paul articulates this human condition succinctly, emphasizing the universal nature of sin and our collective falling short of God’s glory. Humanity’s attempt to attain salvation through self-effort mirrors the futility of an archer’s arrow missing its mark or a runner lagging in a race. Seeking self-righteousness leads to a perpetual cycle of failure and pride, distancing us further from God’s ideal. The hopelessness of human achievement underscores the necessity for God’s intervention and the offer of redemption through faith. Despite our unworthiness, God extends a second gift: the opportunity for reconciliation and restoration. This gift is available to all, irrespective of background or status, emphasizing the inclusivity of God’s grace.

God exemplifies His righteousness, offering justification even amid humanity’s rebellion. At the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus, a significant shift occurred, altering our future trajectory. No longer reliant on ourselves, we now live out the light of Christ, solely justified by God’s righteousness. This righteousness, not contingent on adherence to the law, stems from Jesus’ salvific work on the cross, reconciling humanity with God. Christ’s death appeases God’s righteous anger, providing redemption for sinners through faith, not works. Paul underscores the continuity between Israel’s religion and the manifestation of God’s righteousness in Christ. God’s justice necessitated payment for sin, fulfilled through the costly sacrifice of His Son. Thus, the gift of grace demands reverence, as it came at great cost. Justification, a bestowal of righteous status, coincides with regeneration, a renewal of the heart. The gospel declares God’s reconciliation with humanity, an act of sheer generosity, applicable to all without exception, irrespective of their legal or covenantal status.

Our life is a gift. Every moment is an opportunity to embrace God’s righteousness or to move in a different direction. Paul elucidates that the Almighty cherishes our life, regardless of background or behavior. Our behavior has been a severe problem, as sin leads to our outright rejection of the righteousness of God and breaks down our relationship with God and our community. This brokenness is an outright rejection of the gift that God has shared and stands in contrast to God’s hope and peace. However, because God’s love is large enough to overcome our rejection, God showers humanity with a gift that maintains God’s sense of justice and redeems humanity through Jesus Christ. Therefore, to follow God, we must strive for righteousness and reconciliation in every aspect of our lives to show our appreciation and love for the gift of redemption.