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Do You Love Me?

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.”

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I Have Sent Them Into The World

Prayer, in its most profound sense, serves as the vital conduit for deepening our relationship with God, fostering a cohesive unity among believers, and empowering us to fulfill our sacred mission of disseminating His truth throughout the world. It is far more than a ritualistic utterance; it is a serious and intimate act, a sacred dialogue that draws us closer to the divine. One of the most intimate moments we could ever be privy to is the private prayer and discussion between God and someone in the midst of mourning and pain. Through prayer, we not only communicate our deepest longings, gratitude, and supplications but also open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s presence, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts and minds. This intimate connection, nurtured by sincere prayer, becomes the bedrock upon which a vibrant faith is built, enabling us to understand and embrace our purpose.

When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, 2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4 I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. 5 And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed. 

6 “I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. 

20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016), Jn 17:1–26.

The journey of faith is intrinsically linked to the intimacy we cultivate with God through prayer. Jesus Himself exemplified and emphasized the paramount importance of this personal and heartfelt communication with the Father. He often withdrew to solitary places to pray, demonstrating that such moments of quiet communion are essential for spiritual sustenance and clarity. By consistently engaging in prayer, we seek not only to speak to God but also to listen, allowing His wisdom to shape our perspectives and His peace to calm our spirits. This ongoing dialogue is crucial for understanding and aligning ourselves with His divine will, ensuring that our actions are rooted in a genuine connection with Him and are reflective of Jesus’ teachings, thereby equipping us to effectively carry out our mission in the world.

Furthermore, prayer acts as a powerful unifying force among believers. As individuals draw closer to God through their personal prayer lives, they simultaneously foster a collective spiritual intimacy. This shared pursuit of holiness and understanding, rooted in common faith and devotion, transcends social, political, and personal differences. When believers unite in prayer, they create a spiritual synergy that reflects the love and holiness of Jesus Christ. This unity is not merely an abstract ideal but a tangible demonstration of the Church’s collective faith and intimacy with the Father. It is this harmonious witness that powerfully testifies to the world of Jesus’ transformative power and love, becoming an essential element in effectively demonstrating His message and fulfilling His mission amidst the myriad challenges of the world.

The imperative to spread God’s truth is a mission that finds its strength and direction in prayer. To authentically fulfill this divine mandate, we must consciously align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus, embracing His example of love, compassion, and unwavering obedience to the Father’s will. Prayer provides the spiritual fortitude to act according to God’s plan, even when it requires stepping outside our comfort zones or confronting societal norms. It is through a life steeped in prayer that faith and love become the driving forces behind our actions, compelling us to engage in His mission with conviction and a commitment to personal sanctification. This dedication to reflecting His holiness in both word and deed is paramount to genuinely following Jesus.

Prayer is the indispensable thread that weaves together a profound personal relationship with God, a resilient unity among His followers, and the impactful fulfillment of our shared mission. It is through the serious and intimate act of prayer that we deepen our connection with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, gain clarity on our purpose, and find the strength to align with God’s will. As believers, when we collectively embrace prayer, we not only draw nearer to God but also to one another, creating a unified front that powerfully reflects Christ’s holiness and love to a world in need. Therefore, a commitment to fervent and consistent prayer is essential if we are to authentically live out our faith and effectively spread His enduring truth.

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A Little While

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.

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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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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.