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Come And See

The invitation “Come and see” echoes through stories like Star Wars and Indiana Jones, urging us to enter the unknown. It challenges us to leave our comfort zones and open our hearts to the miraculous. This transformative journey of faith requires us to seek Him, understand His divinity, and embrace His presence. By responding to Jesus’ invitation, we embark on self-discovery and deeper understanding.  True adventure lies not in external thrills but internal transformation through encountering God.  This journey presents challenges, requiring us to confront fears and doubts.  However, these trials strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with God.  Ultimately, “come and see” is a call to experience life’s fullness in Christ, finding true adventure not in the extraordinary, but in the ordinary infused with the Divine where Jesus extends this call, inviting us to become the “Cornerstone” of His Church.

35 The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). 42 He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), John 1:35-42.

Jesus Christ invites all to follow Him on a transformative journey of spiritual discovery. This pursuit involves actively seeking answers to life’s profound questions and understanding the unique purpose for which we were created. By engaging in this quest, we open ourselves to a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Divine. Through seeking and understanding, we become true disciples of Christ. The path to discipleship is not one of arduous striving or unattainable perfection. Rather, it begins with a simple but sincere expression of our desire to draw near to Him. Jesus assures us that He will never turn away those who earnestly seek Him. With open arms and a compassionate heart, He welcomes all who come to Him, offering guidance, support, and unwavering love.

His presence is attractive, and we need to draw near to understand how He is reaching out. Like the disciples, we should learn from Jesus with our hearts and minds. We should seek a deeper understanding and apply it to our lives by “listening to the word and following it.” We should prioritize time with Jesus, even when inconvenient. This means not being hesitant or delaying due to inconvenience. We should be willing to remain with Christ always, like the first disciples did. Their question, “Where are you staying?” signifies a desire for companionship, instruction, and commitment. To mimic this, we must actively pursue a close relationship with Jesus through prayer, study, and a willingness to learn.

When we yield to Jesus after answering the call to COME and SEE, we are transformed for the sake of the GOSPEL. Those who truly find Christ seek to share their salvation with others. By accepting the “Come and see” invitation, Simon is brought closer to Jesus, allowing for this transformative encounter and the promise of a name change. The call extends beyond the initial encounter; it’s also an invitation to witness Simon’s transformation. The call ultimately leads to embracing the mission of the gospel. By focusing on the Lamb of God, believers are directed to the cross, the hope for the world and the connection between God and mankind. This mission is not just about personal transformation, but also about bringing others to Christ and living out His love and grace. This symbolic act highlights Jesus’ divine knowledge, authority, and transformative power, as well as the potential for a future leadership role in the church. The “Come and see” invitation sets the stage for this transformation and is crucial to understanding Simon’s journey to becoming Peter, the “rock.”

Jesus’ words “Come and see” are an invitation to a complete reorientation of one’s life. It calls for a personal encounter with Jesus, a shift in focus from self to Christ, a commitment to his mission, and a transformation that radiates outward to others. This call requires a willingness to leave behind old ways and embrace a life centered on Jesus, leading to a greater understanding of God’s plan for humanity. The invitation “Come and see” inspires a mission of sharing the Gospel with others. Just as Andrew brought his brother Simon to Jesus, followers are called to be witnesses, bringing others to Christ. The sources emphasize that personal witness and friendship are the primary means of bringing people to Christ. This call is not limited to prominent figures but also applies to “Andrews,” who are just as crucial to the progress of the Gospel. Come and see God’s abundant love and guidance as we seek to understand our true purpose and embark on a spiritual adventure.

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What The World Needs Now

The prophet Isaiah offered the world a promise for the people in preparation for the fulfillment of God’s salvation for a world mired in sin. Within the people of Judah and Israel, many were walking away from the promises of God and settling for the prescription of the world’s ruling classes. Instead of taking care of one another, they sought their gain by looking at how to manipulate the structures of society to benefit themselves at the expense of those who could not fend for themselves. Those broken down by the structures of government and society needed something to help them. The prophet promised to those listening for God’s response and help. This promise called on God’s followers to work to care for each other and to place their trust in the Almighty. The Almighty would upend the government and society and ensure everyone would hear the Good News of the coming salvation. Isaiah’s world needed to hear the following:

 6  For to us a child is born, 

to us a son is given; 

and the government shall be upon his shoulder, 

and his name shall be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, 

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

 7  Of the increase of his government and of peace 

there will be no end, 

on the throne of David and over his kingdom, 

to establish it and to uphold it 

with justice and with righteousness 

from this time forth and forevermore. 

The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV

We need to hear Isaiah’s message just as much today. Our world needs the message of Good News, even as we have seen God’s glory manifested in the birth of Christ. However, the complete fulfillment of the Gospel has not yet come, but it is coming. Therefore, we need to look at the themes of Advent and reflect on each one as we grasp that they offer us an understanding of what the world needs right now.

HOPE

Countless individuals grapple with immense hardship and adversity in the world around us. Many cannot secure a living wage, sustain their families, or find affordable housing. Hospitals are filled with patients who are not only suffering physically but are also isolated and devoid of hope, a situation that is particularly poignant during the holiday season. The pervasive despair and hopelessness that grips so many necessitates a profound response. What the world needs now, more than anything else, is hope. True and lasting hope, however, cannot be found in material possessions, fleeting pleasures, or human endeavors. Hope can only be found in the Lord Jesus Christ. He offers a hope that transcends the temporal and extends into eternity. His hope is not contingent upon favorable circumstances or fleeting emotions but is grounded in His unwavering love, unchanging promises, and ultimate victory over sin and death. This hope provides meaning and purpose amid suffering, comfort, and strength in times of despair and the assurance of a future filled with joy and peace. Jesus calls out to every one of us to be the manifestation of Hope for our world.

PEACE

The world is currently facing a crisis of suffering and displacement, with countless individuals affected by the horrors of war and violence. These conflicts have resulted in widespread destruction, leaving countless homes and communities in ruins. The pervasive sense of insecurity and fear that stems from such violence has left a lasting impact on the global community. In the face of this devastation, the urgent need for peace has never been more apparent. The teachings of Jesus Christ, often referred to as the Prince of Peace, emphasize the importance of peacemaking and reconciliation. As members of the Christian church, we are responsible for actively seeking solutions that promote peace and end all forms of violence. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ represents a pivotal moment in human history, as he bore the weight of the world’s violence and declared an end to its reign. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate his example by advocating for peace and justice in all aspects of our lives. Our commitment to peacemaking is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate reflecting our faith’s heart.

JOY

The need for joy has never been greater in a world that often feels burdened by sorrow and despair. Countless individuals are facing the somber reality of their first holiday season without the presence of a cherished loved one. The weight of grief may dampen their desire to smile, but it’s crucial to remember that joy transcends mere happiness. Joy is a divine gift, a profound sense of peace and contentment in the soul. Mary, the mother of Jesus, exemplifies this enduring joy. As she brought forth the Son of God, she witnessed the fulfillment of ancient prophecies and the dawning of a new era. Her joy was rooted in the unwavering promises of God, a source of hope that transcended the trials and tribulations of earthly existence. We, too, can find solace and strength in this divine joy. Through faith and trust in God, we can experience a profound transformation, a shift from brokenness to wholeness. True joy, the kind that withstands the storms of life, is not only attainable but also essential for our well-being and the healing of our world. In a world yearning for light, let us embrace the radiant joy that Mary embodied. Let us share this divine gift with hurting people, offering them a glimpse of hope and a reason to believe. By choosing joy, we become beacons of God’s love, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more compassionate future.

LOVE

In our moments of reflection, it becomes overwhelmingly clear that the antidote to the world’s ills lies in love. Our planet teems with individuals whom the Divine cherishes, and God’s love is a boundless force that encompasses all creation. As members of God’s church, we embody and radiate this love. Through the transformative power of divine love, we can rediscover the paths that lead to joy, inner peace, and unwavering hope. Understanding God’s love serves as a poignant reminder that it must take root deep within our hearts, allowing us to cast out all forms of hatred and animosity. The world’s most pressing need is not material wealth or fleeting pleasures but the enduring and unifying force of love. This love calls us to transcend our differences, embrace our shared humanity, and work tirelessly for a world where justice, compassion, and understanding reign supreme. It challenges us to be beacons of hope in a world often shrouded in darkness, to be agents of reconciliation in a world rife with division, and to be living embodiments of God’s love in a world that desperately yearns for its transformative touch.

CHRIST

The world desperately needs a Savior, and that Savior is Christ. He came to us on Christmas Eve, not as a mighty king or a conquering hero, but as a vulnerable baby born in a humble manger. This humility demonstrated the true nature of power, which lies not in force or domination but in self-sacrificial love and vulnerability. No government, no matter how well-intentioned or benevolent, can provide the Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love that only Christ can offer. These are not mere emotions or fleeting feelings but profound, abiding realities that flow from a relationship with the living God. The prophet Isaiah, centuries before the birth of Christ, urged the people of Israel to look to the coming Messiah, even before they fully understood the implications of His arrival. He spoke of a time when the government would rest on His shoulders, and His name would be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

Christ has already come to earth, lived a perfect life, died a sacrificial death, and risen again in victory; however, He has not yet returned to fully establish His kingdom and bring about the final redemption of all things. During this interim period, God calls us to be His ambassadors, spreading the good news of salvation to a world in desperate need. We are called to share the message of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love that only Christ can offer. We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ, reaching out to those who are lost and hurting and guiding them to the One who can truly save them. Although the world may seem dark and hopeless at times, the light of Christ still shines brightly. As we share that light with others, we bring hope to a world that desperately needs it. We have the opportunity to spread the news that Jesus Christ was born in a manger and that He is coming again. We live in a time and place where we have the power of Christ to move our hearts to bring hope, peace, joy, and love.

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It’s Time To Wake Up

Look around our community, listen to the sounds, smell the scents, there is a difference around us. God opens to us an opportunity. It’s not just that we are marching toward the Christmas holiday, or that we approach the beauty of the perfect gift given to us in Christ Jesus, but it is a world that is crying out for the Church to bring peace to a world at war with itself. If we don’t raise up now in the world, then it begs the question whether the church will ever rise to the challenge. Similarly, Jesus came to the world in a time when the religious leaders were at war with each other; we stand now where our world is increasingly in conflict and division, and God sends us to the world. We now find ourselves in a situation and a time and place where the church is called to get up out of our seats and bring the Gospel to the world. Just as Paul called the church in Rome to stand up and get to work, Christ calls us, His Church, to come forward and walk as those bringing the light into the darkness.

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), Romans 13:11-14.

This passage is a wake-up call for believers to spiritual alertness and rings with urgency. Believers, like awakening from slumber, must rouse themselves from spiritual complacency. Time is of the essence, and how we live matters. In ancient Rome, the coming of Christ challenged the people of the Empire, urging them to abandon empty gestures and seek true spiritual awakening. The church of that era was called to rise and become aware of the indwelling Spirit of God. This awareness was meant to be shared with the world, leading to transformation and inspiring others to come to Christ. Yet, the church has spent too much time in slumber, focusing more on claiming Christianity as a global identity rather than living in a manner that would reflect the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. God’s call is not for us to engage in mere entertainment but to lift the world into His hands. The alarm has sounded, and we cannot afford to keep hitting the snooze button. It is time to rise from our complacency and stand for the Gospel. Our mission is to live for Christ and share His glory through our actions and our love for one another. 

Embracing light necessitates casting off darkness. This metaphor symbolizes a stark separation from sinful actions. It implores us to abandon immorality, discord, and self-gratification, donning instead virtues such as goodness, righteousness, and truth. Paul emphasizes that within the church, there is no place for division and sin, urging believers to cast aside any darkness encroaching upon the light. Consequently, followers of Christ must acknowledge their sinfulness and strive to cleanse themselves from all that hinders them from living as Christ did. While sin may be alluring, recognizing that we are all sinners should not deter us from pursuing sanctification, for it is Christ’s grace that saves us. However, as Christ’s followers, we are also called to live in a manner that, despite our sinful nature, we must strive to eliminate all sin and submit ourselves to the Holy Spirit, who guides us toward sanctification. As we heed the call to awaken, Jesus summons us, the Church, to embody the perfection to which Christ has called us. This entails repentance wherever sin exists in our lives and entrusting our hearts into the hands of the Almighty.

To live a life that exemplifies Christ’s character and teachings, we must make choices that honor Him and resist temptations that cater to our sinful nature. As Christians, we are reminded to set aside our sinful desires and embrace a new way of living. While it may be tempting to continue living in our old ways, we must strive to love as Christ loved, show kindness to the world, and offer hope through the love of Christ Jesus. In Christ, we are new creations, no longer defined by sin but transformed by the hope of Christ. Our mission in the world is to be a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness. To effectively do this, we must live transformed lives, casting aside sin and allowing ourselves to be molded into new creations. The true hope of the Gospel lies in this transformation, allowing us to live as Christ taught us to live.

During this Advent season, as we anticipate the arrival of Christ, we recognize that we exist in a transitional period—an already, but not yet time. Christ imparts hope upon us through the transformative power of salvation while simultaneously calling us to embrace sanctification by living in enlightenment. Christ graced us with his teachings, guiding us toward a life free from sin, and while our salvation hinges on God’s grace, we also bear the responsibility to spread the hope of Christ by shedding the sins that encumber our own lives. The Apostle Paul implored the Roman church to pursue holiness by living in the light, discarding any lingering darkness. Similarly, as God’s contemporary Church, we must rid ourselves of sin to embody Christ’s compassion within our community, allowing others to witness our transformative journey. This is a clarion call to break free from complacency and allow the Holy Spirit to direct us toward lives defined by transformation. This season is one of hope, and the Church is called to live in accordance with the Gospel. However, it is imperative that we sound the alarm, rousing the world from its slumber and encouraging it to awaken to the hope that the Gospel offers. This awakening can be achieved by sharing the Gospel while embodying the transformative power of Christ within each of us.

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It All Belongs To God

In preparation for the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States, when we reflect upon what we have to be thankful for, some may find themselves in a place of despair, claiming there is nothing worthy of gratitude. The darkness of their circumstances may overshadow the blessings that still remain. However, God’s Church must rise above this despair and understand that we have been given a great responsibility to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness for all our blessings, recognizing that they are ultimately gifts from God, freely given to us despite our shortcomings. Just as King David, in his wisdom, prepared materials for the temple and called upon the people to participate, reminding them that all they possessed was a gift from God, so too are we called to give back with open hands and joyful hearts. David provides a powerful example, calling us all to understand that everything we have, from the smallest to the greatest, originates from God’s generous hand, and in response, we should freely offer back to Him with gratitude and thanksgiving.

14 “But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own have we given you. 15 For we are strangers before you and sojourners, as all our fathers were. Our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding. 16 O Lord our God, all this abundance that we have provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all your own. 17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness. In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you. 18 O Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, our fathers, keep forever such purposes and thoughts in the hearts of your people, and direct their hearts toward you. 19 Grant to Solomon my son a whole heart that he may keep your commandments, your testimonies, and your statutes, performing all, and that he may build the palace for which I have made provision.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), 1 Chronicles 29:14-19.

Thanksgiving begins with a profound understanding that every aspect of our lives, every breath we take, every beat of our hearts, is a precious gift from God. Just as King David, in the process of building a temple for God, appealed to the people reminding them that every gift given was really handing back to God what they had already been blessed with, we too recognize that all we have originates from Him. Therefore, the greatest gift we could offer is the complete surrender of our hearts in worship, our minds in diligent study of His Word, and all our abundance to advance the Gospel through the Church. This Thanksgiving, let us not hold back from giving to God, for everything comes from Him for our benefit. In turn, let us extend that generosity to those in need, to the church for the sake of the Gospel, and actively seek peace in the world, for we only know what true peace is because God graciously gave it to us first.

We thank God for the blessings and experiences that have shaped our past. Every event has contributed to our present journey. David emphasized God’s faithfulness to the Israelites, dating back to Abraham. He recognized that their greatest need was a relationship with God and that straying from this path hindered their progress. Similarly, we have often hindered ourselves within the church by opposing Jesus’ teachings. Instead, we should return to Jesus’ perspective and acknowledge that the Gospel reveals the abundance of gifts bestowed upon us through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. It is by God’s grace that we stand where we do today. Our calling is to live out this example of faith, drawing from the past to bless others as we have been blessed.

Ultimately, Thanksgiving entrusts our future into the hands of God. Each believer must embrace the truth of the Gospel, allowing us to present our children, our legacies, and our aspirations before God for His blessings. Uncertainty should be surrendered to Him. As David entrusted the future of Solomon and the temple to God, we too should relinquish our anxieties and uncertainties about the future to Him. This surrender signifies our trust and faith in God’s plan. Thanksgiving is an act of faith in God’s plan. Through giving thanks, we acknowledge God’s past blessings, appreciate His works, and express faith in His guidance for the future. It’s a statement of trust, saying, “God, I trust in You, even though the future is uncertain.” Despite life’s chaos and uncertainty, God remains in control. He sent Jesus to save us, and our mission as a church is to share this good news with the world, offering hope and love to everyone. This is our calling.

We are called to embrace God’s blessings and continually seek His grace, mercy, and love in the present, past, and future. All that we possess, our talents, and our future belong to God. We are entrusted with these gifts to serve others and fulfill His purpose in the world. As our Churches must serve as beacons of light, peace, and reconciliation, offering hope to those who cannot see light as they are surrounded by darkness while the church spreads God’s love to all. True Thanksgiving transcends mere words; it manifests in our actions, our way of life, and how we treat others. It involves sharing peace, hope, and love with everyone we encounter, honoring God through our deeds.

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Jesus Gives Us Enough

Complaints and calls for change stem from an utter lack of satisfaction today. Although a quest for satisfaction is not new, it hearkens back to the beginning of the world when humans in Eden wanted more as they succumbed to temptation in the garden. The Rolling Stones echoed this, as they couldn’t get satisfaction. This lack leads to all sorts of questing for more, and people will go to odd ends to do so. From seeking validation through online platforms and measuring our worth by the number of followers or likes we receive rather than finding our identity in Christ. We may constantly compare our spiritual lives or achievements to those of others, leading to envy, pride, or a sense of inadequacy instead of finding contentment in Christ. We may look to human authorities for validation or direction rather than seeking guidance from God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.

We may become preoccupied with outward religious practices or adherence to specific doctrines while neglecting the true heart transformation that God desires. Our appearance takes precedence rather than cultivating a genuine relationship with God. This action leads to overlooking the daily miracles of creation – the sunrise, the changing seasons, the intricate design of a flower – and failing to see them as reflections of God’s glory. When this happens, we neglect the everyday miracles of human connection and the blessings of relationships. Jesus presented himself to the people for a relationship and showed great compassion for them, but even with all the miracles, there were many who simply wanted more.

In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, he called his disciples to him and said to them, 2 “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. 3 And if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way. And some of them have come from far away.” 4 And his disciples answered him, “How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?” 5 And he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven.” 6 And he directed the crowd to sit down on the ground. And he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the crowd. 7 And they had a few small fish. And having blessed them, he said that these also should be set before them.8 And they ate and were satisfied. And they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. 9 And there were about four thousand people. And he sent them away. 10 And immediately he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the district of Dalmanutha.

11 The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. 12 And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” 13 And he left them, got into the boat again, and went to the other side.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Mark 8:1-13.

God’s unwavering care for humanity is exemplified through His divine sustenance and mercy, regardless of our worthiness. This undeserved favor should fill our hearts with gratitude. Christ’s compassion is evident as He perceives the physical needs of the crowd even before His disciples do. His compassion precedes provision, reminding us that God is always aware of and cares for His people, proactively acting on our behalf. Before performing the miracle of feeding the multitude, Jesus offers thanks, acknowledging that all good things originate from God and are ultimately His to bestow. Our response of gratitude recognizes our dependence on Him. The crowd’s contentment with Jesus’ provision teaches us to be content with what God provides, trusting in His wisdom and believing that He knows and will fulfill our needs.

Arrogantly seeking more than what we have already been given implies that we believe we deserve something extra. Jesus Christ, the ultimate sign from heaven, exemplified by His miraculous feeding of 4,000 people, affirms His divine authority and power. He is the fulfillment of all divine promises, and we should not seek guidance or fulfillment elsewhere. Seeking signs beyond Christ reveals a lack of faith, as seen in the Pharisees’ demand for a sign. Their hearts were challenging God rather than genuinely seeking Him. True faith in Christ alone is sufficient; it does not necessitate additional proof or signs. Christ’s sufficiency silences our demands, as He has already provided everything necessary for our salvation and life through Him.

In our journey of following Christ, worship finds its ultimate expression in thanksgiving. This natural response to our undeserved faith echoes the crowd’s reception of the meal as a gracious gift from Jesus. Just as they received salvation and spiritual blessings, we too are recipients of these undeserved favors. This unmerited favor cultivates humility within us, reminding us of our dependence on God and countering the pride that seeks more than Christ’s sufficiency. Furthermore, gratitude fosters a heart filled with praise and adoration, leading us to worship God for who He is and all He has done. Recognizing His sufficiency fuels our worship, as we adore Him in response to His grace. In this way, worship becomes a cycle of receiving and responding, a beautiful exchange between us and our loving Father.

The passage concludes by emphasizing the importance of cultivating gratitude as followers of Christ. This gratitude is rooted in recognizing God’s providential care, Christ’s sufficiency, and our own grace in Him. We are called to be content with what God provides, trusting that He is enough and that asking for more is unnecessary. Furthermore, we are called to be agents of compassion and justice in the world, inspired by Jesus’ compassion for the hungry crowd. We are to see the needs around us and respond with love and action, following Jesus’ example. Just as Jesus provided physical bread for the crowd, we are called to share the “Bread of Life” – the Gospel – with a world hungry for meaning and purpose. While we may feel inadequate or our resources may seem small, the passage reminds us that God can multiply what we offer for His glory. The cultivation of gratitude, coupled with our role as agents of compassion and the sharing of the Gospel, encapsulates the essence of our calling as followers of Christ.

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A Grateful Community Of Faith

The fragmentation among churches has led many Christians to worship in privacy, undermining the true essence of communal worship. The historical divisions within the church, from the Great Schism to the Protestant Reformation and the subsequent emergence of numerous denominations and individual belief groups, have contributed to this phenomenon. It is essential for the church, as a community of faith, to unite in gratitude for God’s blessings and seek divine guidance for a welcoming and sacred worship experience. Rather than focusing on differences, the church should come together to celebrate God’s grace and seek divine guidance in understanding scripture. A prayer is offered for divine guidance in fostering a welcoming and sacred worship community where all believers can come together in unity and fellowship.

And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites in all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem to celebrate the dedication with gladness, with thanksgivings and with singing, with cymbals, harps, and lyres. And the sons of the singers gathered together from the district surrounding Jerusalem and from the villages of the Netophathites; also from Beth-gilgal and from the region of Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built for themselves villages around Jerusalem. And the priests and the Levites purified themselves, and they purified the people and the gates and the wall.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Nehemiah 12:27-30

In Jerusalem, where walls once stood in disrepair, a vibrant community gathered to celebrate the wall’s dedication with worship and praise. This momentous occasion showcased the transformative power of communal faith and underlined the profound gratitude for God’s work in their midst. The physical gathering of believers emphasized the necessity of collective worship for a balanced and fulfilling faith. While individual devotional practices hold great value, they alone are insufficient to experience the richness and depth of worship fully.

Within the faith community, effective communication and worship are essential for understanding God’s message and fostering deeper connections. Through shared experiences of praise, prayer, and reflection, believers journey together from brokenness to restoration, finding solace, joy, and gratitude in one another’s presence. This journey calls us to engage deeply in our faith, embracing the transformative power of communal worship.

Gratitude for God’s blessings and communal worship serve as a wellspring of joy and support through life’s challenges. When we gather to worship, we celebrate God’s goodness and create a space to uplift and encourage one another. Even in times of sorrow, worshiping as a community allows us to experience God’s comforting presence and find strength in our shared faith. In the inspiring words of Nehemiah, we are reminded of the importance of a more committed and enthusiastic approach to attending church. He underscores the vital role of community in spiritual growth and emphasizes that understanding God’s joy is inextricably linked to our engagement with others.

The community serves as a location for spiritual preparation, refining our hearts and minds to embrace God’s joy amidst life’s challenges. Through communal worship, we learn to surrender our burdens, trust God’s providence, and find hope and peace amid adversity. Ultimately, joyful worship in the community is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the boundless love of God. As we gather together, we become part of something greater than ourselves, experiencing the fullness of joy and the assurance of God’s presence in our lives.

A unified and grateful church community is vital for spiritual development, meaningful worship, and support in times of challenges, emphasizing the significance of communal faith and appreciation for divine blessings. Being in tune with the Holy Spirit and spiritually prepared equips individuals to respond promptly when the call to action arises, much like runners poised at the start of a race. A grateful faith community engages in collective worship, aiming to share God’s word, joy, love, and peace with all. This community actively seeks to hear God’s message through joint preparation for worship and extend joy, love, and peace to their congregation and beyond. A faithful community is called to worship with gratitude and intentionality, uplifting and glorifying God’s name.

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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. 

JRMITCH85 Uncategorized

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.

JRMITCH85 Uncategorized

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.