JRMITCH85 Uncategorized

FROM FAITH + FOR FAITH

Throughout our lives, we always seek ways to find belonging. As we strive for something that brings a change to our lives, many things and groups promise to give us that sense of belonging and purpose. With belonging, we strive for something that empowers us to become more than what we are or better versions of ourselves. Companies, organizations, hobbies, or even political affiliations tap into our desires to prompt us to leave behind our former selves and unite with them to be a part of something. However, faith empowers us not only to be a part of something or become a better human but also to connect with the Almighty and strive to better ourselves and our community. In the book of Romans, the Apostle Paul underscores the transformative power of faith and emphasizes the significance of community.

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Romans 1:16-17 (ESV)

Paul opens his thesis statement with a proclamation of confidence found in the Gospel. With the power of God, the Gospel provides a transforming power that leads to a birthing of faith in one’s soul. When encountered with sincerity, faith creates a striving for righteous living, where the intrapersonal wrestling with becoming a person who strives to be the best person they can be creates a desire for sanctification. Through a community of faith, this begins to create a fertile ground for faith to be nourished and grown. With growth, opportunities arise to spread that faith through stories and sharing.

A key to faith is a constant source of nourishment and growth potential. We allow faith to stagnate and fade outside of regular practice and an environment that provides sustenance. Therefore, the community of faith must strive to expand by sharing with others the hope and peace within the Gospel framework. While it may be compelling to state that all we need to do is share our stories, we must also help people overcome the darkness in our world by actively giving hope through meeting needs and working for justice that gives peace to the people in our community. Without hope and peace, we cannot affect change in the world because righteous living is not birthed in a vacuum but rather is encouraged to thrive when the community of faith fights against the darkness of sin that ravages our communities.

When offering hope and peace through faith, we offer a power that sustains our community with the understanding that we have a new identity as a follower of Christ. Looking at Paul’s life, this new identity sent him in a new direction that sparked a new movement within the church. Previous identifying principles would follow him but not haunt him. As he used his background to connect and identify with people, Paul did not lose sight of the fact that those identifications all move to the background once we follow Christ. Similarly, our faith should not erase all other identifications, but those identifications should not be anything that divides once our faith unites us. This new identity builds our faith as we share and prompts us to grow closer to God collectively and, in turn, produce more faith in our community and ourselves. Therefore, faith lived out prompts a gift of more faith intended to be shared.

Faith sparks each person’s transformation and acts as the fan that spreads the faith to the world. Through faith, our lives change, and our hearts, minds, and souls lead us to become people who live righteously and share with our community the hope and peace that bring lasting change to our world. We know our world has been affected by sin that has led to darkness and division, but faith strives to remind each of us that we have been created by a God who loves us and wants to build in us a faith that leads to sanctification and holiness, which in turn births more faith.

JRMITCH85 advent, Character, Decisions, Faith, Hope, Uncategorized

The End Is Near?

The key prop of the stereotypical street preacher is a sign that reads, “REPENT! THE END IS NEAR!” While this type of thinking sits in the back of our minds, as we, as sinful people, need repentance, however, do we know how we feel about the second part of that sign? These thoughts cause each of us to confront our eschatological thoughts and the reality in front of us. Far too many within Christian circles look around at “clues” around us pointing to the imminent return of Christ. This, however, is not a new phenomenon, as since the time of Christ, people have been looking for a sign. We need to heed the words of Jesus that we don’t know, and a generation should not need a sign to do what is right. Paul writes to the church in Corinth; while he does state that time is short, he instructs the church that there is no time to place our faith in structures but only on the power of Christ in them.

29 This is what I mean, brothers: the appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none, 30 and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods, 31 and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.

1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (ESV)

Paul instructs us to hold the perspective of the world’s impermanence, and we as individuals should live as if everything around us is passing away. The insignificance of worldly pursuits is highlighted, prompting a shift in focus away from our worldly pursuits and claims and towards the eternal and the spiritual. In contrast to the tumultuous events in the external world, the scriptures provide solace, reminding believers that such external occurrences are temporary and not as significant as they may seem.

Living a life centered on God and nurturing a deep relationship with Him is emphasized by Paul as the cornerstone of a meaningful existence. Too many things with our world demand that we give them attention and will fool us into believing they are worthy of our time, money, and attention. In a world filled with transient experiences and fleeting moments, the enduring connection with God stands out as the most crucial aspect of our journey. The guidance for such a life is sought through the scriptures, where the teachings reveal profound insights into the nature of our relationship with God. Probing the Word becomes a source of wisdom and a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life.

Within the nature of a life devoted to God and studying the mysteries through the Word and prayer, we find ourselves changing the priorities within our lives, and we change what our minds’ focus. However, even when we don’t consume ourselves with the things of the temporary world, it does not give the Christ follower a license to ignore the plight of the people of this world. Rather, as a Christian, we must understand that through the scriptures the instruction is to find the worries and hurts of the world and work to help the world to be reconciled to God, and bring healing to the world.

This pursuit must extend to all our relationships, cautioning against relying solely on earthly connections. Instead of putting faith in human institutions or leaders, our emphasis must prioritize God as the head of the church and recognizing His ever-evolving work in the world. The warning against misinterpreting biblical passages without acknowledging God’s centrality reinforces the idea that genuine faith is anchored in a direct relationship with God. Ultimately, the call is to bring peace and hope to a world filled with chaos, choosing God’s love as the guiding force in our lives and turning to Him in times of despair rather than surrendering to hopelessness.

JRMITCH85 advent, Faith

A Fulfilling Love

Embracing God’s love as the foundation for our relationships and mission is like anchoring our lives in an unshakable truth. The divine source empowers us to extend love to others, mirroring the boundless love God has shown us. In the intricate tapestry of faith, Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan becomes a profound example of surrendering to divine will, illustrating that we can align our lives with God’s purpose through faith and trust.

The angelic message to Mary echoes through time, resonating with the overarching theme of divine intervention and the miraculous unfolding of God’s plan. It symbolizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in bringing forth something extraordinary from the ordinary, highlighting that God’s love is not bound by the limitations of the natural world. Mary’s acceptance becomes a beacon, urging us to embrace the unexpected with faith and humility.

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 named Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 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 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)

God’s call to manifest His love in the world is a grand invitation to participate in the redemption of humanity. The promise to mend the brokenness caused by sin underscores the magnitude of God’s love, which goes beyond forgiveness to restoring our relationship with Him. This divine mission is a testament to love’s profound impact on healing and reconciling a fractured world.

In our human journey, self-doubt often becomes a stumbling block, hindering us from fully realizing our purpose. Yet, the call to carry out God’s love is a powerful antidote to such doubts. It encourages us to transcend our insecurities, trusting that God’s love working through us is greater than any perceived inadequacy. This empowerment enables us to step boldly into our calling, knowing that God equips those He calls.

The timeless directive to love one another, even those with whom we may not see eye to eye, is a clarion call to transcend differences. This commandment invites us to extend God’s love unconditionally, recognizing that His love weaves us together in the tapestry of diversity. It’s a reminder that our ability to love is not contingent on our feelings but rooted in our response to God’s love.

The reassurance that all things are possible with God is an anchor when facing challenges in the journey of love. It prompts us to turn to God for guidance, acknowledging His love is a constant source of strength and wisdom. Living out His teachings becomes a tangible expression of this love, turning the abstract concept of divine love into a lived reality in our daily interactions.

The narrative of Joseph and Mary, intertwined with the proclamation of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, becomes a poignant symbol of God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. Seeking God’s love and honoring His promises in our lives becomes a testament to the enduring nature of divine love, echoing through the ages as a source of hope and inspiration. The shepherds’ proclamation signifies the joyous announcement of God’s love breaking into the world, inviting us to share in celebrating this transformative love story.

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. The Shepherds and the Angels 8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 14  “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. 21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb. 

Luke 2:1-21 (ESV)
JRMITCH85 Decisions, Faith, Hope

Everything Begins With Joy

Music, laughter, and smiles surround us during the advance toward Christmas. The decorations and songs intend to bring joy to the people around us. Unfortunately, we are caught up in the same anxieties and troubles that entrap us through the year. Joy coming from the Spirit of God serves as a counterexample to the commercialized feeling of the Advent. As we prepare for Christ’s coming, we need to heed the example of Mary upon hearing of Christ’s coming and respond with joyful expectation. This is also the example that Paul asked of the Church in Thessalonica. 

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil. 23 Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (English Standard Version)

The Christian life is to be rooted in a spirit of continuous joy, prayer, and thanksgiving. Embracing the spirit of Christmas, let the joy within us illuminate the world. As we navigate life’s challenges, let’s cultivate a heart filled with gratitude, prayer, and celebrating the good in every circumstance. Starting the day with a prayer for more joy sets the tone for a positive and uplifting experience. In the face of adversity, rejoicing always becomes a beacon of hope, and constant prayer is a guiding light through the darkest moments.

In a world that may seem overwhelming and unsettling, the call to rejoice, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances becomes a powerful testament to our faith. It is a reminder that joy is not contingent on external circumstances but is a gift from a loving and omnipotent God. As we approach the new year, let’s carry the light of joy into the unknown; despite the challenges that may lie ahead, trust in the power of God to bring joy in all circumstances. This joy becomes a source of strength and resilience, allowing us to face the future with hope and anticipation.

The essence of the gospel is not only to be received but also to be shared. Let the joy in our hearts be a beacon of love to others. By reaching out to those in need, spreading the message of hope, and being a source of joy, we fulfill the call to share the love of Christ with the world. Finding joy in God transforms our entire being, especially during the holiday season. As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, may the joy in our hearts be contagious, spreading warmth and love to those around us.

We are called to anchor our joy in God in an uncertain world. Regardless of the circumstances, we have countless reasons to give thanks. Cast aside anxiety, embrace the joy that comes from above, and approach each day with a spirit that cannot be quenched. May this Christmas season be filled with love, joy, and peace that surpasses all understanding.