Tag: God

1  God has taken his place in the divine council; in the midst of the gods he holds judgment: 2  “How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? 3  Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. 4  Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” 5  They have neither knowledge nor understanding, they walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken. 6  I said, “You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you; 7  nevertheless, like men you shall die, and fall like any prince.” 8  Arise, O God, judge the earth; for you shall inherit all the nations! 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Psalm 82.

In a world perpetually searching for answers and solutions, humanity often places its faith in various forms of earthly power, from influential individuals to fictional superheroes and even emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Yet, a profound and consistent message echoes through spiritual teachings: true help and ultimate salvation emanate solely from a divine source. This perspective challenges us to abandon our misguided reliance on transient earthly saviors and instead embrace a higher calling—to pursue genuine justice and extend compassionate care to those in need, guided by divine principles.

Throughout history, humanity has grappled with the unknown, constructing intricate systems and deities to explain the inexplicable and provide comfort in uncertainty. From ancient pantheons to modern-day icons, the quest for a protector or a guiding force remains constant. However, as ancient texts reveal, there exists a singular God who judges the earth and claims dominion over all nations. This divine entity demands not blind worship, but active participation in upholding righteousness. Judges are admonished to cease favoring the wicked, to defend the vulnerable, and to rescue the weak and needy, underscoring that the pursuit of justice is not merely a human endeavor but a divine imperative.

Our contemporary society, much like those of antiquity, frequently turns to figures of immense power or fictional heroism for deliverance. We are drawn to the idea of a singular savior—be it a caped crusader, a charismatic leader, or even the promise of advanced AI—to solve our most pressing problems. This reliance, however, is ultimately misdirected. The narrative suggests that all such earthly sources of help are fallible and will inevitably disappoint. True salvation and enduring assistance, it posits, can only be found through unwavering faith in God. Those who usurp this divine role, whether people or constructs, are destined for judgment, highlighting the futility of placing ultimate trust in anything less than the divine.

The misguided pursuit of earthly saviors, whether they are superheroes or technological marvels, stems from a deep-seated human hubris—a desire to control and perfect the world through our own ingenuity. The creation of AI, for instance, driven by the noble intention to “save the world,” risks leading to destruction and injustice if not anchored by a profound connection to a higher power and moral compass. God’s call is clear: abandon these false idols and follow a path of active righteousness. This involves not only caring for the poor, the fatherless, the orphan, and the widow, but also recognizing that neglecting these fundamental duties will lead to societal and spiritual decay.

Ultimately, the divine summons humanity to open its eyes to the pervasive injustices of the world, to actively care for the marginalized, and to boldly cry out for justice on their behalf. This is not a passive expectation but an active mandate. We are reminded that we do not require superheroes or worldly power, for divine wisdom and strength empower us to be agents of justice in a world that God loves. By rejecting the allure of fleeting saviors and embracing the divine call to compassionate action, humanity can truly embody the principles of justice and find genuine salvation.

17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. 18 He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. 19 Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. 20 You shall fear the Lord your God. You shall serve him and hold fast to him, and by his name you shall swear. 21 He is your praise. He is your God, who has done for you these great and terrifying things that your eyes have seen.

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Deuteronomy 10:17-21.

In the grand narrative of faith, God beckons us to remember our deeply personal stories of transformation and salvation. This remembrance is not merely an exercise in nostalgia, but a profound call to action, urging us to extend boundless love, unwavering care, and profound compassion to all, especially those most vulnerable amongst us. This outward expression of selfless love becomes a vivid reflection of God’s own intrinsic justice, boundless love, and immeasurable mercy. Just as He, in His divine sovereignty, champions the cause of the vulnerable and lovingly guided us even when we were lost and utterly undeserving, so too are we called to embody His character in our interactions with the world, ensuring that our lives echo the transformative power of His grace.

The story of American independence, with its resounding declaration of freedom from oppression, remarkably parallels the foundational themes of Christianity. Both narratives speak to a profound yearning for liberation, ultimately pointing to God’s inherent love for humanity. Yet, over time, the potent symbolism of the American independence movement—where individuals from all ages and backgrounds united against tyranny—has, in some ways, faded from our collective consciousness. Similarly, as Christians, our own story of faith is a powerful declaration of freedom from the enslavement of sin, a liberation secured through the boundless love of God manifested in Jesus Christ. This parallel serves as a powerful reminder that the fight for freedom, whether temporal or spiritual, is deeply rooted in divine love and a desire for human flourishing.

A critical challenge for believers is the tendency to lose sight of the profound significance of our spiritual awakening over time. Just as the Israelites were given the book of Deuteronomy, a divinely inspired reminder of how to live and govern their society after their exodus from Egypt, we too need constant recall to prevent our spiritual journey from becoming a forgotten tale. The longer we drift from the moment of our spiritual rebirth, the more susceptible we become to the distractions and temptations of the world, which can obscure the path God has laid out for us. To effectively remember our story, we must perpetually recall that its genesis lies with God, our inherent sinfulness, and His sovereign act of salvation that rescued us from ourselves.

Remembering our story is an exercise in profound humility and awe. It begins with acknowledging God as the source of all things, inspiring a deep reverence for His greatness and prompting a heartfelt response to His unwavering goodness. This remembrance also necessitates a stark confrontation with our own fallen nature, recognizing that despite our sin, God’s sovereignty reached out and saved us. Accepting Christ marks the beginning of a lifelong journey that demands continuous recommitment. The myriad distractions and temptations of life can easily cloud our spiritual vision, necessitating a constant rediscovery and reaffirmation of our devotion to Him.

Ultimately, to follow Christ is to actively emulate His compassion, His boundless love, and His selfless actions. The parable of the Good Samaritan serves as a poignant reminder of this divine imperative: God calls us to remember our personal stories of transformation and, in doing so, to extend care and love to those in need, rather than walking by in indifference like the priest. The church, as the collective body of Christ, must continually recall its humble beginnings and the transformative power of God’s love that brought it into existence. Only by genuinely remembering and internalizing this story can it truly reflect Jesus in its actions, extending His love and compassion to a world desperately in need.

¹⁵ When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” ¹⁶ He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” ¹⁷ He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. ¹⁸ Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” ¹⁹ (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), John 21:15-19.

As children, the thought of disappointing a parent, especially a mother, could be profoundly unsettling. The moment of being “caught” often brought with it a wave of dread, the knowledge that the conversation to come would be etched with her disappointment, a feeling that could truly crush one’s spirit. It is an inherent truth that the people we love most are those we least wish to let down. Yet, despite our best intentions, we invariably falter, letting down friends and family. In these moments, the path back to a healthy relationship invariably involves the arduous, yet essential, work of reconciliation. This profound human experience mirrors a powerful divine narrative: Peter’s denials of Jesus, a betrayal that seemed to strip away his very identity, only to be met with a loving, restorative encounter that redefined his purpose.

Peter’s public betrayal, denying Jesus thrice on the night of his arrest, was a profound fall, seemingly reverting him to the impulsive “Simon” he was before his transformative encounter with Christ. It was into this deep shame that Jesus stepped, meeting Peter on a beach with a simple meal. Peter, undoubtedly relieved yet burdened by guilt, likely braced himself for rebuke. Instead, Jesus initiated a conversation marked by tenderness and profound understanding. He did not scold directly but gently prodded, not with accusations but with a repeated inquiry into the very core of their relationship: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” By calling him “Simon” rather than “Peter,” Jesus subtly acknowledged the fall from his transformed identity, hinting at the need for restoration to the “rock” he was destined to be. The focus was never on Peter’s failure but on his capacity for love—the supreme requirement for his future office and essential qualification for service. This encounter teaches us that divine reconciliation doesn’t demand penance or grill us over mistakes; it simply invites us to remember the foundational call to love God, and, by extension, our neighbor. Jesus has already paid the price; our return is to embrace the transformation He offers.

The words of Christ, far from accusing, serve to reconnect us with our true purpose and mission. In an act of unparalleled trust, Jesus, having forgiven Peter, entrusted him with the most valuable treasure on earth: His flock. Peter’s vexation at the third repetition of the question was not resentment, but a sign of genuine contrition and deep sorrow, echoing the bitter weeping he experienced after his denial. This grief was evidence of a contrite heart, wounds only Jesus could truly heal. The culminating command, “Follow me,” was more than a simple invitation; it was a powerful reaffirmation of Peter’s discipleship and a renewed call to commit wholeheartedly to Christ’s service. This implied a deeper commitment, including a readiness to suffer and “take up his cross” by mirroring Jesus’ own example. Having been restored and humbled, Peter was now truly ready to fulfill his earlier, premature promise of unwavering loyalty, even unto death. This reaffirmation of faith reminds us that we are infinitely more than the sum of our mistakes; Jesus desires a deep, connected love that transcends shame and empowers us for His mission.

Our love for Christ finds its truest expression not in words, traditions, or values alone, but in our actions—specifically, in how we extend love to one another, to the poor, and even to our enemies. Each of Peter’s professions of love was met with a clear directive for service: “Feed my lambs,” “Tend my sheep,” “Feed my sheep.” This unequivocally demonstrates that Peter’s love for his Lord was to be made manifest in his care for the Lord’s flock, a task achievable only through a primary connection to Christ’s love, flowing outward to nourish others. The ultimate act of following Christ, Jesus revealed, is intimately linked to suffering and martyrdom. By predicting Peter’s death, Jesus underscored that true love and submission extend even to laying down one’s life in service and for God’s glory, fulfilling Peter’s earlier, premature promise only after he had been strengthened by the resurrection. It is not merely through action, but profoundly through suffering, that the saints glorify God. Our proclamation of love for God, articulated in worship, must then translate into tangible service in the world, embodying the Gospel’s message of a God who empowers us to love, rather than to judge or accuse.

The journey toward reconciliation with God, if initiated by our own desire to “get right,” is destined to fail. No amount of human effort, knowledge, or self-improvement can bridge the chasm created by our imperfections. It is solely through God’s infinite love that reconciliation is even conceivable. So much of life is consumed by attempts at self improvement, through self-help doctrines or relentless learning. Yet, in the grand scheme of God’s boundless love, these efforts often prove to be vanity, leaving a pervasive emptiness. I once spent years pursuing knowledge and degrees, convinced they held the key to self-betterment, only to find myself unable to truly answer the fundamental question, “Do you love me?” It was a humble lesson, one perhaps reminiscent of a mother’s wisdom, that reminded me: while the world may honor academic accolades, and theological education is valuable, true fulfillment comes not from what I know, but from the saving act of Jesus, and my faith is defined by my willingness to feed sheep, tend lambs, and genuinely love people. Only in these acts do I truly affirm, “Yes, Lord, I love you.”

We have a fixation with time. Not that it is a negative thing, but even throughout our weeks we have schedules that we strive to live by. Our church services begin at a certain time, and we expect them to end by a set time. However, there are some of us that when things get off schedule we struggle. I am going to admit something that would certainly not come as a surprise to most that I do not care to abide by a strict schedule. This openness allows me some great open space for spontaneous activities; however, in some situations it also causes me to find myself in some precarious situations where I have to operate on limited sleep. When you are young this seemingly never catches up to you, but as we age, our bodies need more rest. Time after all is not something that we have an unlimited supply. Jesus was well aware that the time was ticking away, and He started explaining this to the disciples that remained about His remaining time with them. However, the part that tripped them up the most was about His description of time. However, Jesus redirected their query about how long a little while is, to what they should be doing for that little while.

16 “A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” 17 So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’?” 18 So they were saying, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. 21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. 22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. 23 In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Jn 16:16–24.

The finite nature of time is a fundamental aspect of human existence. While schedules and plans are indispensable for navigating daily life, it’s vital to maintain a perspective that cherishes the preciousness of fleeting moments. Jesus himself exemplified this awareness during his earthly ministry, knowing his time with his disciples was limited. His poignant use of the phrase “a little while” served not to emphasize the duration of his impending absence, but rather to underscore the profound importance and impact of his presence with them. This understanding encourages a conscious effort to be present and value the interactions and experiences that shape our lives, recognizing that each moment is unique and irretrievable. By balancing necessary structure with an appreciation for the ephemeral, we can cultivate a richer, more meaningful engagement with the present.

Jesus offered his disciples a powerful promise: though they would inevitably experience sorrow and grief during his absence, this pain would not be permanent. He assured them that their joy would be restored through the boundless love and unfailing guidance of God. A key element in this restoration of joy lies in approaching God in Jesus’ name. This act of “asking in His name” is not a mere formula, but a profound expression of faith, acknowledging Jesus’ divine authority and his role as mediator. It signifies a deep reliance on God’s will and a desire for His glory. This promise reassures believers that even in times of profound loss and sadness, the pathway to renewed joy is accessible through a heartfelt connection with God, rooted in the understanding of His love and His preparedness to provide for us.

A significant aspect of Jesus’ teachings revolves around the importance of living in the present moment and discerning one’s purpose, rather than becoming consumed by anxieties about the future or abstract speculations about time and its conclusion. He consistently reminded his followers that suffering, though a real and often painful part of the human experience, is ultimately temporary. Joy, he promised, would eventually return, supplanting the sorrow. This perspective encourages a shift in focus from the weight of current hardships to the anticipation of future restoration and the active pursuit of God-given purpose in the here and now. By concentrating on present responsibilities and listening intently to His guidance, individuals can find meaning and navigate difficulties with a hopeful outlook, trusting in the eventual return of joy.

The transformative power of encountering Christ turns transient sorrow into an enduring, eternal joy, empowering believers to embrace and fulfill their divine calling through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. This spiritual transformation reframes life’s struggles; while human efforts and worldly achievements are inherently temporary, the work accomplished through God’s guidance and power has eternal significance. The pain and suffering endured “for a little while,” whether in the pursuit of significant athletic achievements or through profound spiritual trials, can ultimately lead to deep joy and meaningful transformation. Jesus’ promise underscores that while sorrow is a temporary visitor, the empowering and sanctifying presence of the Holy Spirit is an eternal and life-altering reality, urging believers to persevere through temporary struggles and remain steadfast in their calling to make disciples, knowing that God’s work transcends the limitations of time.

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.

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.

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.

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.