Tag Archives: Communion

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

THE LATE NIGHT CALL YOU WANT TO RECEIVE

9018late_night_callHave you ever tried to fight off sleep? Maybe sleep knocks at your door during a critical point in a late night movie? Or perhaps as you are trying to unwind from a busy day you find yourself drifting in and out from a state of sleep and awareness? Either way when sleep arrives it’s near impossible to just “put it off.” Well, I found myself in such a state of being, a few nights ago, as I was doing my best to keep awake long enough to find out what winter weather may be coming my way. That night I lost the battle; and having fallen asleep I missed the weather, but not what God had planned for me later that evening. It was about 10:40ish when I woke back up with lights off and the TV still running. By now I had captured enough sleep to recharge my battery and also felt that familiar rumbling of the late night munchies coming on. As I rolled out of bed I made my way to the kitchen and just as I was passing the dining room I heard my phone ring. As a pastor the late night or early morning calls seldom bring good news; but also as a pastor you learn to never let those calls just drop to voicemail. Answering the phone I was surprised to hear the voice of a fellow pastor, and friend, who wanted to share with me some important and brief thoughts. Our conversation lasted no longer than ten minutes but the deposit of hope, friendship and faith he passed along kept me up for hours after we hung up. I skipped the pantry and went back to bed thinking on the contents of our conversation and this time, with the TV off, I collected my thoughts and prayed. It was an odd feeling that within the span of 40 minutes I had gone from sleep to wide awake and now prayer which drew me closer to spending time with Jesus and further from the concerns of weather, my daily routine or what might happen tomorrow.

When such moments occur, in our lives, we either want to doze back off and ignore the “late night phone call” or retreat from the battle that forces us to break our routines, and moods, so we can press in closer to Jesus. I will be the first to admit it is difficult to get out of “our business” and live the type of life where we look for opportunities to experience the Holy Spirit and develop our devotion to Him. When I reflect on lives Jesus routinely encountered it often seems those who were closest, to Him, missed even greater opportunities to know Him more intimately in favor of self or sleep. This is not to say the disciples, save Judas, were sinister or in some ways ungrateful. But their lack of knowing Him highlights a fundamental issue with us. Often we complain about not experiencing God, or “feeling” His outpouring; but when I think of my late night call I also wonder how many times did Jesus invite me to join Him and I just allowed the call to drop or went back to sleep? Can I honestly assign fault with God for my lack understanding Him? I think not.

When the late night call, or any call for that matter, comes we have to get out of ourselves and step into engaging Him continually. In times of prayer, praise, worship, reading, living and hearing the Word we have the unique occasion to daily experience God Incarnate (Jesus) and such moments should never be neglected. In times of growing global uncertainty, natural concern and spiritual drought the Christian should press his or her ear even closer to the heart of the King. We need to always be those who are clearing out more than enough room, in our lives, to allow His Holy Spirit to dwell in our midst. Today I want to encourage you to open up your lines of communication, leave the phone on ready and be prepared for Jesus to call. He desires to share His will for all who truly want to develop a lasting relationship with Him.
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Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

CIRCUMSTANCES THAT PREPARE YOU FOR THE SUPERNATURAL

jesus-christ-on-boat-during-stormI don’t play the lottery but that is not to say when I hear of a gigantic jackpot my thoughts don’t drift to a world where endless supplies of money would change my circumstances dramatically. We have all experienced the weighty shifts of circumstance. For some of us when life’s circumstances turn for the worse our world seems more difficult and harder to bear spiritually as well as emotionally. But we have also experienced times when circumstances turn for the better and in those days joy is unquenchable and happiness abounds. In reality life is comprised of the ebb and flow of positive and negative circumstances; and while we may feel as if he have limited control over these shifts it is reassuring to know God is forever steady and certain in every season of life.

I’m reminded of the account when the disciples journeyed, with Jesus, across the Sea of Galilee when a sudden circumstance (natural storm) threatened their lives. No doubt the panic, fear and dread was palpable when they finally woke Jesus to make Him aware of their pending doom. In a powerful, but simple, declaration Jesus spoke, “Peace! Be still!” and the storm passed. Circumstances will always be apart of life and in the life of the Christian we must look at any circumstance as a God ordained moment. Listen carefully to what I am saying: I am not saying God ordained the storm. But what I am saying is that circumstances will draw us into God ordained moments. In any trial, tribulation or need God is always asking, Will you trust me? Do you not know I am with you in the boat? St. Paul encourages the church in Rome in a similar fashion when he tells them, “Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.” (Romans 8:28 MSG)

Yesterday, today or perhaps some day in the near future we may find ourselves in circumstances we cannot comprehend, but the Spirit of God understands. God is continually bringing us through real life, people, circumstances and conditions that require our listening, obedience and understanding with the Holy Spirit. In any circumstance we should never attempt to “get out in front of God.” Remember, He is in “the boat” and therefore all your circumstances are in the hand of God.

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Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

MARTHA, MARTHA, MARTHA (An Amazing Woman who Lived in the Shadow of Mary)

martha-and-mary-2MARTHA, MARTHA, MARTHA (An Amazing Woman who Lived in the Shadow of Mary)

It tends to get a little confusing, and to be honest I had to recheck my own facts, because it seems the Bible loves the name, Mary. When reading through the Gospels, if your not careful, you may think you are reading about Mary, the mother of Jesus, in one story Mary Magdaline in the same account or believe that either one is Mary, the sister of Martha. But when it comes to Martha most people often remember her as the “complaining” woman who needed help in the kitchen while her sister (you guessed it) Mary was carefully listening at Jesus’ feet. Like an episode from the Brady Bunch everything seems to be about Marsha, Marsha, Marsha (or for our purposes Mary, Mary, Mary). And just when begin to think of Martha as the equivalent of Jan you may want to think again.

In no way diminishing her sisters zeal, for Jesus, Martha stands as a remarkable woman that possessed the faith to believe in the power at the disposal of Jesus. In the Biblical account we read Martha’s brother, Lazarus, had died from a sudden illness. Though Lazarus had been dead for several days we also read that Martha not only believed that if Jesus had been present He could have healed her brother, but that Jesus had an supernatural intimacy with God that could still revive Lazarus. In a time when we read of doubting disciples, hiding disciples and a treacherous disciple Martha lived a life that comprehended the Kingdom of Heaven had burst into everybody’s reality through Jesus. When loss was at it’s closest (her brothers death) her faith was not deterred in a future inheritance for all who believed. Therefore, her remarkable words still speak to us today, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ …”

In this exchange of faith, Kingdom power and the pending supernatural resurrection of Lazarus Jesus’ words to Martha speak even more loudly to us today when he says, “You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this?” (John 11:26 MSG)

Is there something in Martha’s story in which Jesus may be dealing with you? Last week I shared how I was embarking on a new journey of faith and now as I have “pulling away from port” Jesus is educating me into personal intimacy with Himself. How ‘bout you? I would like to encourage you to not only allow Jesus to ask the question he asked Martha, “Do you believe?” but be bold enough to answer with certainty, “I know!”
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To believe is to allow your faith to actually commit to an action. Since the Bible tells us faith without works is dead we need to be those who not only mentally believe in Jesus, as Lord, but commit ourselves to abandon all that would dissuade our faith and action in Him as the resurrection and life.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

I included this brief clip from my favorite Jesus movie that I feel captures this moment wonderfully. Enjoy! Jesus, Martha and Lazarus

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

GOD IS GOOD, A HIDING PLACE IN A TIME OF TROUBLE (He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help)

call-on-godThis past weekend I was part of an amazing group discussion, with my faith community, on the power of prayer and how God can change our lives once we fully submit to Him. What sparked our conversation was a testimony, we viewed as part of series of teachings by Pastor Jim Cymbala (Brooklyn Tabernacle), that helped us see the real power in and behind prayer. This particular testimony was of a man, who lived at the very height of his craft. His talent brought him overnight fame, fortune and instant access to everything the world has to offer. Through a series of circumstances this young many quickly lost his way and ended up broke, homeless, lost, and spiritually unreachable to any hope of the Gospel message transforming his life. As his state of affairs worsened he found himself at death’s door and somewhere in the deep recess of his memory he recalled a woman who once told him, Call on the Lord in your time of trouble and He will hear you. (Psalm 50:15 / Nahum 1:7)  In an instant the barrage of insanity, regret, anger, fear and hurt, that plagued him, lifted and though he was still very sick the clarity of God’s Word came alive within his soul. His journey and recovery would still be an ongoing process but today this man lives as a remarkable miracle of God’s restorative power despite the circumstances, trials or tribulations.

Personally I find it counter-productive and, worse yet, Biblically unsupportable when Christians encourage the belief that the character of God’s goodness, grace, mercy and love can also, in some way, share equal place with His being the author of suffering, pain and preordained sin.

Suffering, pain and the problem of evil is a reality every generation has lived with from the fall of Adam. Yet, despite this reality one can not logically conclude God is the author of such vices. St. Peter tells us, “Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.” (1 Peter 4:13 MSG)

If we are going to live in Him (Jesus) and willfully serve His purposes than the evils of this fallen world will, by default, take us through a multitude of experiences that are meant to pull us away from Kingdom living. In spite of this difficult journey God is still able, and more than willing, to make us useful in His hands. But in the struggle too many people attribute the problem of evil to God’s failure in one of two ways. The first way we blame God sounds something like, I can’t deal with this problem, Why would God allow this to happen? The second way we assign blame God sounds like, Well, this is very unfortunate but after all it’s God’s will.  

STOP LOOKING AT THE PROBLEM OF EVIL THROUGH ORDINARY EYES. Though Jesus was made like man, knew temptation as we do and experienced the struggle we may experience He was not an ordinary man. Jesus always saw, lived and ministered life with Kingdom power and perspective. Therefore, in the suffering, lack, hurt and evil He too saw pain through Kingdom eyes. The circumstances surrounding a fallen world bring with it suffering. But the circumstances of suffering can also be a place where God exhibits the supernatural in the lives of those who call on Him in their time of trouble. It is in the supernatural the Kingdom bursts into our fallen reality and we begin to experience the tastes a of glorious future, a renewed Earth and restored lives.

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THERE IS GREAT NEWS! In any time of trouble call on Him! When we set aside and stamp out our personal ambitions we are preparing and positioning ourselves for transformation and transfiguration. In sharing with Christ’s sufferings we learn how any circumstance is going to be used for God’s glory. Therefore, when we call on Him, we can all have the confidence of knowing He has girded us through the trial and in our time of need He will hear our prayer.

“Spread for me a banquet of praise, serve High God a feast of kept promises, And call for help when you’re in trouble — I’ll help you, and you’ll honor me.” (Psalm 50:15 MSG)

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

READY? SET? ACTION!

ahc_79194When Jeannette and I were first married I quickly discovered how different we really were. Through three years of dating, and an engagement period, I thought we were just alike in everything; but then after we said I do I realized we weren’t. That’s not to say our differences were bad or in some way we had deceived one another; it just reminds us that there are many ways, in our similarities, we can still be very different. It didn’t take long for me to discover our differences when after our first disagreement (fight) I wanted to patch things up and move on with a quick resolution. Jeannette, on the other hand, needed some time and breathing room to process our disagreement as well as our resolution. For over sixteen years we have managed to deal with conflict, disappointment, failures and hurts in much the same way as our first argument. And over this period of time I have come to appreciate the value of allowing the process of letting a situation breathe so as long as we are allowing the truth of God to act during that time.

As a pastor I have managed to tackle problems, within the church, from a variety of approaches. In some instances I have pressed, head strong, for a quick resolution with disastrous results; and at other times I have waited, too long, to allow people to process a conflict, which has also ended in unsuccessful outcomes. So after reading a variety of leadership books, conflict management articles and advise from my peers I still felt as if there was no “best” way to deal with any single situation better than what the Bible tells us.

St. James writes the early church and encourages them, “So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.” (James 4:7-10 MSG)

“It is essential to give people a chance of acting on the truth of God.” (Chambers) After the pastor, husband, wife, boss or friend has had their say, in any situation or conflict, the responsibility must be left with the individual. You cannot, and are incapable, of acting for him or her and they must be deliberate in responding in a Christlike manner to any situation. Sadly, when we refuse to act, as Jesus would prompt us through His Word, we become paralyzed and end up exactly as we were before. Have you ever met people who live their life stuck? There are some who refuse to grow up, others who dodge responsibility and others still who assign blame, to others, for their misfortune. If you know this type of person or find yourself here today then return to what James tells us and CHANGE IT!  When one acts, he or she is never the same. And when we act upon God’s Word He begins to work His perfect will in our life immediately!

Too many people play games, with their own lives, by wasting precious time living in stalled action. Once you find yourself repeating a failed behavior, negative thinking or destructive speech immediately let go and allow God to get into your circumstance. The moments we will truly live are the moments when we act with our whole will submitted to His plans and purposes.
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FINAL THOUGHT: IT TAKES TIME, SO ALLOW FOR SOME BREATHING ROOM. While most of today’s post has advocated a quick Biblical response to life’s challenges I would be remiss if I didn’t bring some balance to the topic. Like Jeannette’s needing time to process our disagreement most people do require some breathing room. I personally believe all people would benefit from some time to “work it out.” However, this time needs to be well spent seeking Jesus and allowing His truth to walk us toward His resolution. “Never allow a truth of God that is brought home to your soul to pass without acting on it, not necessarily physically, but in will.” (Chambers)

In every part, or role in life, we play we will always be faced with the truth of God. When we confess we are wrong, but go back again; then we come up to it again, and go back; we are hopefully learning the valuable life lesson that tells us we have no business returning to an old failed way of living and thinking. God’s truth is not a negative reality that is meant to hurt or rob you rather His truths are the finest words of redemption in which Jesus transacts the business of drawing us back to Him. The final step we need to take is to go to Him; and everyone who responds to His invitation lives a life where the supernatural power of God invades and changes them instantly. If you truly want to be free from the burdensome power of the world, your weak flesh and your adversary, understand they are not paralyzed by your words or your actions of self! But the stumbling blocks and barriers will always be halted by your action, and will, that is linked to Jesus and His redemptive power!

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

2 DEGREES, MUSTARD SEEDS and FAITH

Mustard-Seed-Faith-by-CRI“Because you’re not yet taking God seriously,” said Jesus. “The simple truth is that if you had a mere kernel of faith, a poppy seed, say, you would tell this mountain, ‘Move!’ and it would move. There is nothing you wouldn’t be able to tackle.” (Matthew 17:20 MSG)

This morning as I sat down to write today’s post I, like most of the United States, am sitting in a deep freeze. As the thermometer sits firmly at 2 degrees you only have to step near your door to know it is deadly cold and while 22 degrees (the temperature expected for later today) may feel like a heat wave the truth is it is still dangerously cold. Oddly enough by the end of the week the weather, where I live, is expected to be near 60 and so I am holding out hope this brief freeze will soon pass away.

I find it interesting how we respond to small things. Small increments in temperature, slight statements of love, minor acts of affection and the “little things”, that mean most, often touch us in a significant and special way. Certainly almost everybody loves a BIG gift or a wild party; but very soon the largess of the moment passes we are left feeling a little empty in the wake of the moment. Perhaps you felt that way after Christmas? Or maybe as you were cleaning your home after a New Year’s party? But the BIG of almost any moment is best experienced in the small.

Yesterday I shared how I was embarking on a new personal journey of faith and some of you responded how my post both challenged and encouraged you to do the same. Today I have a few additional thoughts, on faith, I wanted to pass along to further support us to all continue on this new journey. I have been told, and Scripture seems to bear this out as true, God rewards us for our faith. While this may be so in the beginning of our journey we need to be careful not look past God’s character as we development our faith in Him. Simply said, we do not earn anything by just having faith because the action and gift of faith means to bring us into right relationship, with God, and give Him an opportunity to do something big in our lives to glorify Him!

CONSIDER THIS. How often have you discovered God’s mercy, grace, love, forgiveness and hope when you were at your “bottom of the pot?” If you are like most people I know, me included, I have always felt the beautiful overtures from God but have come to appreciate them all the more when life was at its most difficult stages. Out of our experiences God desires to make contact with us and wishes for us to understand that it is a life of faith, not a life of sentimental enjoyment, where His blessings are truly experienced.

As I looked back into the beginning stages of my new journey I had to admit I’ve lived with a very narrow view of faith. To be honest all of my experience, with faith, was formed around only good moments, promotions, raises or accolades from my peers. But when life took a turn for the worst my faith went missing. Doubt, fear, anxiety and regret replaced my “faith” and I could no longer taste, see or feel the light and sweetness of God’s drawing.

So, what happens next? Mustard Seeds! That is all it takes (according to Jesus) when the mindful blessings, of what we expect Him to do for us, is withdrawn to guide us back to living by Biblical faith. You are worth more to Jesus, in your lack, than in the days when you believed your testimony had reached its height based on your success or personal happiness. Though the mustard tree may be large, it began with the smallest of all seeds. Biblical faith, by its very nature, must be tried and the real trial of faith is not that we find it difficult to trust God; but that God’s character resolute and without doubt in our own minds. The very nature of our entire walk is a journey of faith. And throughout the voyage we will all experience times of seclusion. “Much that we call the trial of faith is the inevitable result of being alive.” (Chambers)

FINAL THOUGHT: Faith, in the Bible, is faith in God against every thing that contradicts Him. Will you remain true to God’s character despite the trial, circumstance or season you are in? Perhaps one of the most inspirational statements of faith, in the whole of the Bible, comes from Job when in the midst of his calamity and accusers repeats,
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 “So hold your tongue while I have my say, then I’ll take whatever I have coming to me.

Why do I go out on a limb like this and take my life in my hands?
Because even if he killed me, I’d keep on hoping.

I’d defend my innocence to the very end.
Just wait, this is going to work out for the best—my salvation!

If I were guilt-stricken do you think I’d be doing this—
 laying myself on the line before God?
You’d better pay attention to what I’m telling you, listen carefully with both ears.
Now that I’ve laid out my defense, I’m sure that I’ll be acquitted.
Can anyone prove charges against me?  I’ve said my piece. I rest my case.”

 (Job 13:15 MSG)

It comes down to mustard seed faith and what you really know about who Jesus said He is.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

A NEW YEAR and A NEW JOURNEY OF FAITH

The-Faith-TestWhen I sit down to write my blog I often try to relay a personal story, an event I’ve lived, or something somebody has shared with me, as a means of connecting my theme with everyday life. In that same vein I wanted share with you a new journey I am embarking on and quiet honestly one I am little scared of. The journey? Faith! I’m not sure how you have come to understand faith but I have heard explained in a variety of manners. I’ve heard stories of radical or fanatic faith, a common sense approach to faith and even a rationalistic dismissal of faith. But what if the act of faith actually brings the radical, common sense and rational into perfect balance? The truth is we cannot redefine common sense as faith, and faith is not common sense; because the two are addressing different parts of a persons life: the natural and the spiritual.

Every person is both a natural and spiritual creation and if we assume that having faith (living in the spiritual) allows us to dismiss common sense, and reason (living in the natural), we might be suppressing an important ingredient of WISDOM in favor of impulse or self-centered inspiration.

CONSIDER JESUS. Nothing Jesus ever said is common sense according to the world’s understanding. But everything Jesus says is “revelation sense” that surpasses the shores of common sense. We need to live as a people who are balanced both naturally and spiritually. But how is this balance achieved? Faith. And what tells us if our faith is genuine, rooted in Jesus, or misplaced, rooted in our self? TESTING.

Faith must be tried before you live with the reality of faith. God’s Word tells us, “We know that all things work together for good.” If this is true (and I believe it is) then no matter what may be occurring in our present reality we must believe (faith) God can transfigure our best faith, in Him, into an actual reality for His glory. Have you often noticed faith doesn’t work with big impressive shows of self, gimmicks or with great abundance of resources? Faith seems to always work on the personal level. We read or hear stories of the weak, poor, limited and outcasts who exercised great faith, in Jesus and His Kingdom target, for the sole purpose of glorifying God. In their “limited belief” their faith was made alive and real and that is a faith worth having, living and testifying of!

WHAT ABOUT COMMON-SENSE, RATIONAL THOUGHT or WISDOM? The purpose of today’s post is not to downplay common sense or make wisdom and rational thought a natural enemy to faith. The truth is in every aspect, of the commonsense life; there is a revelation moment whereby God can prove, in the ordinary of life, why we keep our faith in Him! Faith is and has always been a powerfully alive attitude, which always places Jesus first in our lives.

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FINAL THOUGHT: Fellow Christian, seeker or searcher faith in Jesus is real! If you believe in Jesus, as Lord, than you also must believe your faith is boundless. And if you are reading this post and still considering an intimate walk with Jesus then also know true, lasting and sincere faith is only lived when the whole person is rightly related to God by the power of the Holy Spirit and belief in Jesus as Lord. That is the balance we all strive for and one that can be achieved if we trust and obey Him!

By an act of faith, Enoch skipped death completely. “They looked all over and couldn’t find him because God had taken him.” We know on the basis of reliable testimony that before he was taken “he pleased God.” It’s impossible to please God apart from faith. And why? Because anyone who wants to approach God must believe both that he exists and that he cares enough to respond to those who seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 MSG)

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

THE CHRISTMAS SECRET

231948401_640“My kingdom,” said Jesus, “doesn’t consist of what you see around you. If it did, my followers would fight so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But I’m not that kind of king, not the world’s kind of king.”(John 18:36 MSG)

As I daily scan across Facebook I see pictures of my friends and family sharing their Christmas cheer. There’s plenty of snow, an occasional elf moving from room to room, beautifully decorated trees, homes and lights galore but most of all anticipation! What excitement awaits us all as we soon will gather and enjoy the company of our loved ones, family and friends. Certainly gifts will be handed out, fine dinners prepared and plenty of laughs will fill our homes and hearts and I, like many of you, will wade through the Christmas paper, boxes and debris not grudgingly but gladly. Christmas will also be a time when we remember. Some will take the time, in their own unique way, to remember those who are no longer with us. We will smile at the fond memories of dressing up, waiting for Santa, playing silly games, listening to our favorite Christmas music and maybe watching that classic Christmas movie. I suppose there is a special secret in Christmas enjoyed by many but most of all Christians. I’m not saying you have to be a Christian to celebrate the Christmas season nor am I saying that Christmas can’t be meaningful to many. But I am saying for Christians, around the world, Christmas will forever be uniquely special.

Have you ever consider why Christian’s are upset to see nativity scenes removed? Or hear that a public schools are forbidden to say Merry Christmas? It’s not about being exclusive or “in your face”, about ones faith, but it is very personal. The Christmas secret is not just a story about a woman, man and baby. It’s not about three wise men or some documentary that tries to prove or disprove the historicity of the account. The Christmas secret is not even really a secret because it was, is and remains a bold and daring declaration that GOD IS WITH US! Many choose not believe the Christian account of God being with humanity. Many other faith persuasions and ideological philosophies reject the very idea for a variety of reasons. Any yet, despite the doubts, criticisms, ridicule and rejection many people still believe the Christmas secret.

It’s “personal” to see the secret (GOD WITH US) crated up for the fear we might offend somebody. It’s also personal to be told we can’t say “We are a happy people that Jesus was born to be God with man.” (Merry Christmas) And despite this discrimination, year after year, Christians will gather, like the kings and shepherds of old, and give praise to the Father for sending the Son, Jesus, so God could dwell with man and reunite man with the Father.

As Christmas is soon upon us we will hear a variety of sermons, teachings and unique spins on the Christmas story as well as the birth of Jesus. Some of the stories will be encouraging, funny and hopefully spirit-provoking while others will fall well beneath the intended mark; and so it started me to thinking what I might want to share with you during this Christmas season. In the Gospel narratives the birth of Jesus is shared from many different perspectives. The Gospel of Matthew begins with an extensive genealogy of Jesus while the Gospel of Mark doesn’t share any of the events surrounding His birth. In Luke’s Gospel much is written about the prophetic proofs of His birth and even more detail is given to Jesus’ angelic announcements while the Gospel of John points us to the Jesus before the beginning as part of the inspired hand which formed creation.

Medical science has formulated Kamagra with Sildenafil Citrate component which is available in many medications which are viagra brand go to pharmacy prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction. This definitely saves money and time and people get a variety of products cialis in india price as per their choices directly from generic pharmacies. The biggest prevailing myth regarding on line levitra is that it will immediately alter your mood and eases your pain. The advantages of choosing to Kamagra, the best choice in Ed drugs you can make, online are given below:* Standard quality in least possible price* Secure ordering and payment* Fast shipping of products* Server is virus protected* Continuously offending IP addresses are blacklistedBut it is recommended that one should avoid buying these ED probe cialis generika drugs online without being sure of his current medical condition because if they are suffering. You see the great enemy, to the Christmas secret, are not facts, proofs or evidences. And they great opponent is not Santa, Christmas trees or gifts. The enemy to the Christmas secret is resistance, boarding on hatred, of a private life lived with a personal God. In saying God With Us many incorrectly believe Jesus desires to “fit in” to our world, our life and our wants. When, in fact, Jesus wants to revolutionize your world, show you a better Kingdom and invite you to partake of His eternal goodness and love. Jesus said, “The kingdom of God comes not with observation; … for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you,” a hidden, obscure thing.” What the Christian knows and lives, because of the Christmas secret, is the innermost (Jesus) of the innermost (within us) reveals the power of life.

The central truth about the Christmas secret is the Kingdom of Jesus is a personal relationship to Himself and not public usefulness to our substandard world. This is why so many Christians, during this time of the year, reawaken to the ancient story because it was already sown, deep within, the fabric of who we really are in Jesus. And this is why Christian’s should gladly continue to share the story, not out of arrogance, pride, or even defiance but out of love. Why? Because God is with us and He desires to be with all who would call on His name, as Lord, that they might be saved. That is a secret worth sharing!

Merry Christmas

JOSHUA

One Final Note: I will not be posting throughout the week of Christmas. I will resume posting December 30th. 

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

LEARNING TO PRAY, AGAIN

prayer-conversations-“Believe me: I am in my Father and my Father is in me. If you can’t believe that, believe what you see—these works. The person who trusts me will not only do what I’m doing but even greater things, because I, on my way to the Father, am giving you the same work to do that I’ve been doing. You can count on it. From now on, whatever you request along the lines of who I am and what I am doing, I’ll do it. That’s how the Father will be seen for who he is in the Son. I mean it. Whatever you request in this way, I’ll do.”(John 14:11-14 MSG)

What do you think of when you hear the word prayer? Do you think of a solemn and sacred communication between you and God? Perhaps you think prayer is an arduous practice of dedication and ritual? Or maybe prayer is a comfortable conversation you engage in daily with God? Like many people I have approached prayer in the afore mentioned ways as well as read a variety of books, journals and testimonies of how prayer has changed people’s lives and circumstances. When you consider the actual practice, or ritual, of prayer you will discover prayer is not uniquely Judeo-Christian. Many faith persuasions encourage prayer, meditation and ritual, for faithful devotees, to connect with their understanding of God or the divine. However, within the Judeo-Christian worldview, prayer is not an action that prepares us for greater works, prayer is the greatest work!

But why is prayer the greatest work? In Jesus’ teachings prayer was never introduced as a means to achieve an end. In fact, prayer was taught and remains a miracle of emancipation, which continues the ongoing phenomenon of deliverance, in us, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Prayer is the great miracle of communication where we are able to commune with God and He responds. At times prayer is pleading, begging, thanking, loving and hoping, but most of all prayer is a miracle because prayer is personal and liberating.

Have you ever watched an old war movie or read a story that addressed the struggle of humanity? When you are immersed in the story, through real life events, prayer is often the only thing left to do in the most desperate of times. And yet, time and time again prayer works! It liberates, like a miracle perfectly timed from God, and sets you free to continue your journey. Yes, prayer can be a battle. Why? Because the necessity of prayer is indifferent to where you are and whichever way God engineers your circumstances your responsibility is to pray because in prayer you learn to center your life in the life of Jesus!
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The power of prayer is so effective that even your enemy, Satan, tries to dampen your zeal by planting the alien thought there is no use for prayer because of your failures. THAT IS A LIE! Wherever God has placed you, and in whatever circumstances, pray, Whatsoever ye ask in My name, that will I do. I’ve been guilty, at times, believing my best prayers were those of a physical nature where some kind of thrill is attached to my times of intense meditation. And I have also learned such expectations indicate a spiritually selfish attitude in me. Prayer doesn’t have to be a frenzied firestorm or even a meek contemplation. But prayer has to be sincere, from our heart to His, for a dialogue to really occur. In communion, with Jesus, comes intimacy; and the intimacy He longs for is genuineness in us. You see prayer is not just an endeavor, like many routine actions, it is the deed of authentic love, communion and genuineness that brings us back to a place of divine innocence where we live life as He (the Father) always designed us to live.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

NEW SEASONS, OLD DISCOURAGEMENTS and DISCOVERING GOD’S FAMILY

2607520089_ec7687798b_mIn our family of faith, at Maranatha Koinonia, we have entered a new and exciting season of growth and expectation. But with the “new” also comes some of the same old discouragements. At the beginning of the year (2013) I shared a series of teachings on Biblical fellowship / community (koinonia) because I felt led, by the Spirit, we were about to enter into a new phase of ministry and community. Little did I know how much change would actually occur and how little I understood what these teachings were preparing us for. If you had asked me a month ago to sum up 2013 in one word I would have said, “set-back.” Throughout the year familiar faces, cherished friends and even family moved on while we as a community were still struggling to discover and pursue our vision and mission. Personally I looked back at two-years of ministry and felt as if I was holding a list of failures rather than successes and asking far more questions than having answers. Honestly, it was all very overwhelming. Yet, despite all the uncertainly those beginning of the year teachings, on fellowship, started to come to life and in the midst of the “set-backs” God was actually reworking me, the ministry and our entire community. Whereas two years ago I would have defiantly said, “I WILL NOT…” I now found myself saying, “LET’S DO…” Two years ago our church behaved more like a social group loosely connected by our faith; but in truth we were more connected to our personal preferences, worship styles and presupposed positions of doctrine. Today, our community lives, acts and fellowships like a true Biblical family where the love of Jesus has united us across race, socio-economics and even upbringing. And still, despite these new seasons the old discouragements lingered.

You know the familiar questions and haunts, Have I done enough? Could I have done more? Should I do more? Is there enough money? Is there enough space? Etc…questions, that at their heart, are designed to rob our joy and purpose as we walk into a new season. With the discouraging thoughts mounting I knew enough to pray “in the storm” a rather simple prayer which God gladly called my bluff on. In fact, within two weeks of my prayer, God brought the answer through the doorway of our church. And with His answer came a new season of trying, trusting and resisting the old discouragements.

You don’t have to be in “ministry” to experience discouragement but serving in the ministry will certainly test ones spiritual and natural fortitude. When you look back into the life of Moses you discover a man who witnessed the oppression of his people and felt certain God had chosen Him to deliver Israel. But was Moses’ journey free from discouragement? NO. In fact we read, no sooner after God used Moses to deliver a divine ultimatum, to Pharaoh, did the real tug of war begin. But when I look at the life of Moses I ponder on what type of growth happened, deep within Moses’ life, when he was in Midian for 40 years? He was still the same man called of God for a mighty work. There was still a very long road ahead of him. But tending sheep for 40 years prepared Moses to be a shepherd, to discern God’s voice and act, in obedience, when God revealed His will. In fact, Moses was the right individual in every way; but for the next new season Moses still had to learn about communion with the Father.

We may have a vision, from God, and a very clear understanding of what He wants, and we start to carry out the vision in obedience. But then comes “something”, like Moses’ forty years in Midian, where God may act as if He is silent to the call, vision, mission and purpose. It is those seasons we become thoroughly discouraged BUT GOD IS NOT FINISHED! When He calls you on your bluff, revives the call and tells you it is time to leave Midian we may be inclined to say, who am I? Remember He who called and purposed you has already said, I AM THAT I AM who has sent you!
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As 2013 began I had many expectations, even indications, that this year would be an amazing season of growth. And you know what? IT WAS! And as 2013 is now drawing to a close I can’t help but think God is enjoying what He see’s at Maranatha Koinonia. Not only have I matured and learned more about God, and His workings, I discovered my family…the community of faith at Maranatha Koinonia. Some of the faces are familiar loved ones while others are new faces, and families, that need much ministry and love.  I just thank God I didn’t allow discouragement to rob me, and us, of His marvelous plan. I can’t help but anticipate an exciting 2014, that awaits us all, as we minister together and live in communion and community to glorify King Jesus!

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

HOW’S YOUR STRUT?

Figures_God_took_Enoch“Enoch walked steadily with God. And then one day he was simply gone: God took him.” Genesis 5:24 (MSG)

Have you ever noticed how people walk? Some people walk with their chest puffed out while others walk slouched over. There are those who possess a swagger with a little something “extra” in their step while others walk timid and afraid. Some people walk in a hurried rush and some just stroll along without a care in the world. But how are we supposed to walk with God? What kind of step, pattern or pace does He expect? If we look for walking patterns in the Bible we discover a wide variety. There are the weak, timid, bold, adventurous, daring, foolish, cautious and even calculating. Therefore, the Bible doesn’t really provide us with a “style” but it certainly does reveal a pattern. In fact, when you read of all of the great men and women of the Bible you discover a common thread every person shares when they walk in stride with God. (More on this later)

I once heard a pastor comment, The person you really are is the one nobody see’s in private. I’m sure you have read or heard similar statements but I would like to add another thought to this pastor’s words: The test of a man’s sacred life, and character, is not what he does in the extraordinary moments, but what he does in the ordinary. (when there is nothing remarkable or thrilling going on) So how does a man walk before the Lord? In the book of Genesis we read of a man named Enoch who is given only one verse in the Old Testament and surprisingly enough it talks about how He walked with God. The answer? STEADILY.  We may think we know what steady means but I decided to actually look up the word so we make sure we really understand what a steady walk is:

STEADY DEFINED: Firm in position or place; fixed. Direct and unfaltering; sure. Not easily excited or upset. Unwavering, as in purpose; steadfast. Reliable; dependable. Temperate; sober.

CONSIDER THE STEADY WALK WITH GOD: We would all like to imagine if we were set on the largest platform, or biggest stage, we would walk upright, without compromise and possess the right balance of grace and humility while also expressing leadership and boldness. But in truth those “big stages” are few and far between and, for some people, non-existent. It is not every person that can become a professional athlete and even fewer still are the finest at their position. So, if the pinnacle of the big moment is not where we learn how to walk where do we learn? We learn to walk in the ordinary of life! The worth of a man is revealed in his attitude to ordinary things. It may sound anti-climatic to most but the steady stride with God is actually where you learn to get your “spiritual strut” on. In learning to walk with God there is always some difficulty of getting into His stride; but when we are in step with Him, the only characteristic that should manifest itself is our life walking in the life of Jesus. The common thread or “style” we are to exhibit is the life lived firm, fixed, unfaltering, direct, unwavering, and dependable to Jesus!
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ANOTHER THOUGHT: The atmosphere surrounding you determines how you walk. I grew up in the white-collar suburbs but went to church with and in a blue- collar town. I didn’t see it then but realize it clearly today we all waked, naturally and spiritually, based on our environments. Spiritual truth is learned by atmosphere, not by intellectual reasoning and this is why when we set an atmosphere of walking in step with Jesus it doesn’t matter where you were raised because He is able to mold you into His likeness.  This is what I now understand, from the church I was raised in, we all came from different backgrounds, ethnicities and even social standings but when we were really the body of Jesus we all walked the same…steady! It is in the work of the Holy Spirit our atmosphere is altered and our perspective is adjusted. When we hear the question, Are you walking with Jesus? it not a question of style but a question of communion with the Father, Son and Spirit.

It may take some time to get there, but don’t break stride with Jesus! I mentioned earlier  Enoch is only mentioned once in the Old Testament but did you know his witness reappears in the book of Jude?  “Enoch, the seventh after Adam, prophesied of them: “Look! The Master comes with thousands of holy angels to bring judgment against them all, convicting each person of every defiling act of shameless sacrilege, of every dirty word they have spewed of their pious filth.” These are the “grumpers,” the bellyachers, grabbing for the biggest piece of the pie, talking big, saying anything they think will get them ahead.” (Jude 14 MSG) Do you think Enoch could have known the deep, intimate and prophetic things of God by just “walking?” No, Enoch did more than walk. Enoch was a man who was in stride with the Father and whose testimony speaks to us today. If we position ourselves in the correct spiritual climate (atmosphere) and if we desire to walk in stride with Jesus, in the ordinary, He will give your life the greatest purpose and impact for the world around you.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

Shhh…THE ANSWER DISCOVERED IN GODS SILENCE

Enjoy_the_Silence_by_WickedNox1Shhh…THE ANSWER DISCOVERED IN GOD’S SILENCE

“Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, but oddly, when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed on where he was for two more days. After the two days, he said to his disciples, “Let’s go back to Judea.” (John 11:6 MSG)

What happens when silence has a big meaning? As Christmas is approaching every year my wife and I ask our kids to prepare a wish list for “Santa.” Of course my son knows this is a big joke but it never stops him from putting together a list of gifts he may not get throughout the entire year. Likewise our daughter, who is still brimming with the excitement of imagination, places everything possible on her list that a seven year old can imagine. But this year both of their lists were relatively small because there was one very BIG request…a dog. Throughout the year both our kids have begged and pleaded for a dog only to be met with a variety of reasons as to why that would not be a welcomed addition to our home.  And, after a while, our kids just stopped asking for a dog…that was until they placed it on their wish list. Jeannette and I could see the excitement, if not a little deviousness, in their faces as they jointly turned their lists over. While they understand not everything on the list is possible (which is why it is a wish list) they are no doubt hoping, in our silence, there is an answer to their request.

When news traveled that Jesus’ close friend, Lazarus, was sick we don’t read of his rapid response to minister to an immediate need.  Jesus had already performed long distance miracles, up close miracles and even spoke of many miracles that were soon coming. But in this one story Jesus waited in a type of silence. I’m sure, to many around Him, his indifference was puzzling? Why the delay? Why the silence? Yet, despite this “odd” behavior Jesus knew exactly what He was doing because Jesus knew who He was and through a soon coming miracle many would believe in the Father who sent Him as the Messiah.

CONSIDER YOUR DAYS OF SILENCE. Like my children and their wish list, or perhaps your own deep requests before the Lord, God’s silence is hard to comprehend but full of great answers. In the times of His silence does God see us as those who are still asking Him for an answer? Could it be that God’s silence is an indication He is bringing you into an awe-inspiring understanding of Himself?

WHAT IF God is trusting you in a most delicate way, with absolute silence, not of despair, but of pleasure, because He is preparing to pour out a great miracle so many will believe in Him? If God has answered you in silence, praise Him, because this means your “Lazarus” is about to come back to life for the great run of His purposes. The answer to “When?” and “How?” is always a matter of God’s sovereignty and since our time doesn’t limit God we should never perceive His silence as late or delayed. God always arrives with perfect timing.
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ASPIRE TO allow God’s silence to develop deep within where you come to a place saying, I know God has heard me. When Jesus finally arrived at Bethany He said, “You don’t have to wait for the End. I am, right now, Resurrection and Life. The one who believes in me, even though he or she dies, will live. And everyone who lives believing in me does not ultimately die at all. Do you believe this?” Martha replied,  “Yes, Master. All along I have believed that you are the Messiah, the Son of God who comes into the world.” (MSG)

In the silence Gods answer is speaking. Do you have the faith of Martha to believe?

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

 

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

IF YOU ARE SOPHISTICATED AND A KNOW-IT-ALL YOU MAY BE MISSING OUT. (IT’S GOOD TO BE ORDINARY)

know-it-all-300x223“Abruptly Jesus broke into prayer: “Thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth. You’ve concealed your ways from sophisticates and know-it-alls, but spelled them out clearly to ordinary people. Yes, Father, that’s the way you like to work.” (Matthew 11:25, 26 MSG)

A few weeks ago I shared of a conversation my daughter (now age 7) and I had on a variety of topics well beyond her years. As I chose to answer some of her questions, and others I decided not to answer, it reminded me as to how God, in His infinite wisdom, elects to share with us insights as to how His ways operate. No sooner did our conversation end another question emerged; and this time it was a question I had for God, Who does God share with and who does He not share with?

When you consider natural relationships you generally think of them in a progression of stages marked by some transitional and, at times, life changing events. In much the same way as a natural relationship we develop our spiritual bonds in like manner. But there is a stark difference in a spiritual relationship, with God, and a natural friendship with a fellow man or woman.  In natural relationships we tend to live at different levels. Some of us are “hot” while others are “cold” and this is due to the fact that we live at different intensities and therefore, it may take some time for us to build these lasting relationships. But with God, He always “burns” at the same intense level while it us that are often “cold” to His desire for communion and relationship.

Consider this…God, in dealing with the sin nature, does not cleanse us more and more from sin since He already conquered the sin nature once and for all. But when we reflect on our part, in this divine relationship, we discover that we are called to live in His marvelous light as well as living redeemed from all of the sins attached to the old nature of “self.” Simply examined any meaningful and lasting relationship, with God, can only be sustained with genuine love, compassion and obedience (commitment to the relationship).
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Image1Isn’t this the type of relationship we all long for? God will never reveal more truth about Himself until we have obeyed what we already know. This is where the “know-it-all” and sophisticate, as read in Matthew’s Gospel, miss the essential bonds of communion with Him. Since they believe they are burning “hot” when they are actually “cold” they also assume they know exactly what He is sharing, speaking and asking. The reality is Jesus was more thankful for the ordinary person, who is very aware of their need for communion and “low” burning temperature, than the sophisticate. Beware of becoming a “know-it-all” because you will miss His voice; and remain obedient as well as ordinary in your pursuit a faithful relationship with Jesus.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

LIFE LIVED IN THE ATONING WORK OF JESUS!

jwesley“That means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. Don’t give it the time of day. Don’t even run little errands that are connected with that old way of life. Throw yourselves wholeheartedly and full-time—remember, you’ve been raised from the dead!—into God’s way of doing things. Sin can’t tell you how to live. After all, you’re not living under that old tyranny any longer. You’re living in the freedom of God. What Is True Freedom? So, since we’re out from under the old tyranny, does that mean we can live any old way we want? Since we’re free in the freedom of God, can we do anything that comes to mind? Hardly. You know well enough from your own experience that there are some acts of so-called freedom that destroy freedom. Offer yourselves to sin, for instance, and it’s your last free act. But offer yourselves to the ways of God and the freedom never quits. All your lives you’ve let sin tell you what to do. But thank God you’ve started listening to a new master, one whose commands set you free to live openly in his freedom! I’m using this freedom language because it’s easy to picture. You can readily recall, can’t you, how at one time the more you did just what you felt like doing—not caring about others, not caring about God—the worse your life became and the less freedom you had? And how much different is it now as you live in God’s freedom, your lives healed and expansive in holiness? As long as you did what you felt like doing, ignoring God, you didn’t have to bother with right thinking or right living, or right anything for that matter. But do you call that a free life? What did you get out of it? Nothing you’re proud of now. Where did it get you? A dead end. But now that you’ve found you don’t have to listen to sin tell you what to do, and have discovered the delight of listening to God telling you, what a surprise! A whole, healed, put-together life right now, with more and more of life on the way! Work hard for sin your whole life and your pension is death. But God’s gift is real life, eternal life, delivered by Jesus, our Master.” (Romans 6:13–22 MSG)

Of all the preachers, theologians, scholars and Bible commentators I have read, sat under and studied I will always have a special place for John Wesley. Having studied his writings, sermons and life I have discovered few that have expressed the doctrine of sanctification and atonement with such clarity, grace and mercy as Rev. Wesley. While some may take issue with his doctrinal positions, it was Wesley that shaped much of how many approach ministry, people and their personal walk of faith. If you have never read Wesley then I will clue you in on a reoccurring theme that contradicts many of his Calvinist critics. Critics of Wesley often say he, in some way, advocated a position that encourages “self-salvation.” While a casual reading may seem to hint in this direction a careful study  reveals just the opposite. It was Wesley’s teachings on sanctification and atonement that clearly identified we cannot save or sanctify ourselves; we cannot atone for sin; we cannot redeem the world; we cannot make right what is wrong, pure what is impure or holy what is unholy. For Wesley, and many others, all of these great and majestic works can only be accomplished by a sovereign work of God.

But this raises an important question. Since I, or anybody else, are incapable of such atoning works how can we enjoy total faith in what Jesus has done? The answer can only be discovered in how we understand the atoning work of Jesus. Here too it must be understood the idea of atonement is not an exclusively Judeo-Christian concept; yet it is only through Jesus perfect atonement is experienced and lived completely. The challenge facing most believers is we seldom live life in the pattern of persistently realizing what Jesus’ atonement really is. Jesus’ work of sanctification, atonement and redemption is not an experience that is to be lived, one time, like a wedding or wonderful meal and then stored within the deep recess of our memories. Rather, life lived in the atoning work of Jesus is to be expressed daily in which we develop our faith on the great act of God’s redemption which He has performed through Jesus.

If we get caught in the trap of our faith built on experience then we risk developing an un-Biblical type of life where our attention is only fixed on the appearance of our witness and not the testimony of what Jesus is doing, in us, daily. Oswald Chambers warned, “Beware of the piety that has no presupposition in the Atonement of the Lord. It is of no use for anything but a sequestered life; it is useless to God and a nuisance to man. Measure every type of experience by our Lord Himself. We cannot do anything pleasing to God unless we deliberately build on the presupposition of the Atonement.”

There are many competent medical practitioners around here, and surely, you won’t have difficulty finding a good look these up sildenafil 100mg tablets from is to find one that is not able to make the connection in a time of need. Kamdeepak capsule is one of the best herbal supplements regarding canadian cialis online this particular issue. Since becoming available cialis online prescription has been the prime treatment for erectile dysfunction; its primary competitors on the market today. Take a, low measurement the first run cheap levitra on line through. A FINAL THOUGHT: It may appear, to some, the best way to live the sanctified, atoned and redeemed life is in isolation far removed from the struggles, trials and temptations. Here again I want to revisit the life of John Wesley. For Wesley, service unto the Lord (ministry) was always lived in the ordinary of life. Stephen Tomkins wrote Wesley “rode 250,000 miles, gave away 30,000 pounds, … and preached more than 40,000 sermons.” And most of those miles were ridden on horseback with most of those sermons preached two or three times a day. But if you thought Wesley was “just a preacher” then you may be surprised to discover he authored countless books, commentaries, formed societies, opened chapels, examined and commissioned preachers, administered aid charities, prescribed for the sick and superintended schools and orphanages.

Wesley lived ministry every day and experienced life fully immersed in the daily atoning work of Jesus. Likewise, let us pursue Jesus with such hunger and obedience. As Christians we are also called to life the life of Jesus practically. The life that lives in and with the atonement of Jesus will be one lived in obedience to Him with the guarantee of His grace operating on our behalf. True obedience, with no strings attached, means that we have placed everything on the atoning work of Jesus and as Wesley said, let us say, “The best of all is, God is with us.”

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

REPOST from WISDOM DEFINED (Jeannette Johnian’s Blog) FROM THE TABLE TO HIS TABLE

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One of my greatest pleasures in life is cooking a meal in my little kitchen and seeing my family and friends enjoy. I remember as a little girl spending time in my grandmother’s kitchen learning to make rice and beans. Of course there was no food network back then and my Abuelita (grandmother) didn’t measure a thing. She would say “you put a little of this and a little of that and a whole lot of love into it.” It was there at her table I learned what it meant to be hospitable and generous. We would eat to sound of beautiful ballads playing in the background as she told me the stories of yesteryear.

Not only was my grandmother’s kitchen a place of love so was my mother’s. I am convinced that on the great day of the Lord my  mother will fully come to understand how many lives were touched by her love meals. Many times I asked myself why did she make so much food, there were only four of us in the house. Looking back she would make enough for anyone who would “happen to stop by.” It was and still is her language of love.

Much of my life formation was done around a table. When I started dating my husband I was invited to their home for lunch after church. It was there, a very different type of meal was offered. Yes, there was food but I learned much about the scriptures, the move of the Spirit of God, to love and serve God with all my being. Their table though designed to satisfy natural hunger truly satisfied my spiritual need.

What do these two tables have in common? Fast forward twenty years,  I looked in my kitchen as I was preparing our Thanksgiving meal and felt lead to set a different table for my guests. I decided we would first  partake of the table of the LORD. There we gathered in family to experience the sacred communal reality of communion.
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Just as my grandmother,mother and mother in-law demonstrated there hospitality at the table, so we came to the table of the Lord to bear witness as one family, of the radical hospitality of Jesus. During this act of worship, our attention was focused on HIM who was present in our midst as we gave Him thanks. As we partook I realized we were renacting an ancient play that will be seen once again in the marriage supper of the Lamb.

As we celebrate the Christmas season there will be many beautiful tables set but none more loving and life changing then the table of the LORD.

Peace,
Jeannette

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

CAN YOU COME TO JESUS?

4128370793_dd11757bd5_z“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28 MSG)

The holiday season seems to bring the best and worst out of people. The day after Thanksgiving we hear nightmarish story after story of humanity at its worst; and despite these accounts people are not dissuaded from fighting, massive crowds and danger, to try to buy a new flat screen television. The Christmas season also seems to bring the worst out of atheists who do their very best to remind people that Jesus is a myth, despite the historical evidences that prove otherwise.

I am not just trying to single out atheists but I often wonder why people are so reluctant and, in some cases, aggressively resistant to a reality that includes the man, mission and invitation of Jesus? In fact, it is not just atheists but many people, Christians included, that have a difficult time coming to Jesus; and I often ask myself, why?  Is a life, accepting and submitted to Jesus humiliating? Are people resistant to Jesus because they don’t like to be told that they must come to Him? Perhaps…but I also wonder, are we reluctant to come to Jesus because we know, deep within, there are certain parts of our life we wouldn’t’ dare bring before a holy, just and righteous God. I would challenge everyone, myself included, with the following question: If you want to know how real you are, test yourself by these words—“Come unto Me.”

CONSIDER THIS: In every circumstance, in which people are not real, they will dispute rather than come, they will argue rather than come and they would rather experience great distress and sadness rather than come. The reason we don’t want to come to Jesus is because we are expecting Him to reveal our great personal shame or wickedness. This is never how Jesus has dealt with humanity. Yes, there are many offensive things, we are all guilty of in the eyes of a holy and righteous God, but sadly because of our unwarranted fear of Jesus we miss His merciful invitation for us to just come to Him.

Jesus knows humanity is broken, tired, worn our and burned out on religion. His purpose is not to remind us of what we are already living with but to restore us into communion and right standing with Him. And His invitation doesn’t begin with long list of how we have failed but with an invitation to “Come unto Me.” So why do atheists, believers and or unbelievers resist the invitation of Jesus? Could it be, when we hear His invitation we also know that something must happen, in us, before we can come?
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I said earlier Jesus does not deal with humanity by showing all of our wickedness, shame and guilt but when we accept Jesus’ invitation the Holy Spirit will show you what you must deal with that keeps you from entering into communion with Jesus. The mysterious and sacred work of the Holy Spirit (the third part of the Godhead / Trinity) will always discover the unconquerable areas in our life, that we are resistant to let go of, to join in communion with Jesus.

Layout 1This Christmas season I would like to encourage everyone to set aside the billboards, arguments, personal reasons and distractions as to why Jesus may be a myth and consider what His invitation really means. Many falsely believe, Jesus’ invitation are His words of sympathy, to ease our suffering, without truly considering what His invitation is really asking of us. We do not accept His invitation for the feelings of “Oh well, I have done it this time and now I feel better!’ If so, then we gained nothing from Him and He has done nothing on our behalf. The invitation of Jesus is, ans has always been, the outstretched hands of God for you to take Him at His word so He can heal you from the hurt, shame, fear and burned out distresses of life. Will you come to Jesus?

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

LOOKING AT SIN & REDEMPTION THROUGH A DIFFERENT PARADIGM

redemption_series_graphic“In Christ. God put the wrong on him who never did anything wrong, so we could be put right with God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21 MSG)

I’m not trying to be clever, cute or intentionally controversial but something curious happened to me as our faith community has studied the book of Revelation. While Revelation deals with many eschatological and prophetic themes it often wraps them within the idea of covenant relationship, fidelity and a return to an Edenic state.  As I was sharing with my faith family the events surrounding Jesus’ second coming, and His union to a “faithful bride”, I also began to revisit how I have commonly viewed sin and redemption and asked, is there a better way?

By asking such an “out of the box” question I was not challenging God’s prescribed order of events and means by which He restores all things. Rather, like with most things, when I don’t have a clear understanding I turn to spiritual mentors, writings on the topic, opinions and most of all God’s Word to see if I am thinking God thoughts or just well intentioned but misleading opinions? Everyone struggles with what St. Paul called a “thorn in the flesh” whether it be a specific sin or the burdens of the sin nature. Furthermore, we know our remedy has and is always securely placed through the atoning work of Jesus. Yes, despite this truth, sin doesn’t just disappear from our lives and cease to exist. In fact, the sin nature is very much alive, in the world around us, and by default we are surrounded by many elements that attempt to revive the old nature within us.

For over 37 years I have tried to conquer sin, through spiritual pilgrimage, fasting, prolonged prayer, counseling, public confession and begging but it wasn’t until I revisited sin from a different paradigm I was able to better understand His work of redemption. So, here is the first paradigm shift on sin: Sin is a fundamental relationship; it is not a wrong doing, it is a wrong being of deliberate and absolute independence from God.

When you consider the Judeo-Christian world-view its approach to sin doesn’t just deal with specific sins but the very nature of sin itself. This type of worldview therefore places the Bible (God’s revealed Word) as a historical record, prophetic promise, covenant agreements and guidelines for a life that is willing to not just treat the branches or leaves, of the “sin tree”, but is willing to bore down deep to the roots. In considering the ministry of Jesus the first thing He confronted, in humanity, was the heredity of sin and not the specific sins they may have been struggling with. Jesus’ words to the woman caught in adultery went deeper than the sexual sin by confronting the very heart of the sin nature. Which is why Jesus said to her, Go, your sins (plural) are forgiven and sin no more. “The revelation of the Bible is not that Jesus Christ took upon Himself our fleshly sins, but that He took upon Himself the heredity of sin that no man can touch. God made His own Son to be sin that He might make the sinner a saint.” (Chambers)

Leaves may grow 2.5 generic cialis in canada meters long and meter wide. The complications arising out of patient’s body rejecting the donor liver can even be fatal at times. amerikabulteni.com commander viagra Sometime, the sildenafil tablets click to find out work pressure or the anxiousness in life can be the culprit. In addition, sexual desire is also suppressed by foods cialis on line australia containing big amounts of sugar – they’re primarily sweets and sweetened drinks. CONSIDER A SECOND PARADIGM SHIFT ON REDEMPTION: Throughout the entire narrative of the Bible it is revealed the role of the Messiah (Jesus) would bare the sin of the world by identification, not by sympathy. We tend to approach Jesus, on the Cross, as one who died for specific sins and because he felt “bad” for us. And while it is true that His sacrifice deals with specific sins, and He has great compassion for His creation, His taking of sin by identification has a different purpose. By deliberately taking upon His own shoulders, and baring on His own Person, sin Jesus was not just treating the “leaves” or “branches” of the sin problem He was taking on the entire root system. By fulfilling the covenant of the Father (Yahweh) Jesus, the Messiah, was made sin for us though He knew no sin. It is in the mysterious and legally satisfying accomplishment of Jesus the relationship of sin was forever broken and humanity could enjoy relationship in Him, and with Him, as sanctified, justified and redeemed.

Here too we are not just focusing on the action, of sacrifice, but in the act of relationship in which Jesus rehabilitated humanity and returned us back to where God designed us to be. This is why I experienced great frustration in dealing with personal sin by using actions or works to cure my problems. What I needed was what we all need: To break relationship with sin and enter into a faithful relationship with Jesus. Everyone is invited to enter into union with God on the grounds of who Jesus is and what He has done.

Not to long ago I had a rose bush that in its first year bloomed such marvelous flowers. But each year this bush produced less and less until finally it looked as it was going to die. Noticing it was sick I tried a variety of cures only to see marginal change and a worsening of the situation. Eventually I even tried to cure the soil conditions around this bush but this too had little effect. Finally, in one last attempt I uprooted the rose bush and planted it elsewhere. Next spring it came back to life and each year it has grown stronger and stronger with very little need for my direct attention. Like my rose bush many people are desperately trying to redeem their lives, through works and well-intentioned Biblical actions, when what is needed is a literal break with the old sin relationships and engaging in a new intimate relationship with Jesus. Redemption is God’s ‘bit,’ and is absolutely finished and complete! But communion and relationship is a two-way street so consider looking at sin and redemption through a new paradigm; and you may find yourself treating the root of sin is more rewarding than examining the leaves.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics

IT’S NOT A LAW PROBLEM, IT’S A SIN PROBLEM

sin“You know the story of how Adam landed us in the dilemma we’re in—first sin, then death, and no one exempt from either sin or death. That sin disturbed relations with God in everything and everyone, but the extent of the disturbance was not clear until God spelled it out in detail to Moses. So death, this huge abyss separating us from God, dominated the landscape from Adam to Moses. Even those who didn’t sin precisely as Adam did by disobeying a specific command of God still had to experience this termination of life, this separation from God. But Adam, who got us into this, also points ahead to the One who will get us out of it.” (Romans 5:12–14 MSG)

A few weeks ago I was having an in-depth conversation with another pastor who shared with me a dialogue he held, with a prominent theologian, on the nature of sin and the Law of God. Today, there is a foreign undercurrent being taught, within the message of grace, that claims the Law of God is responsible for the problem of sin; and therefore a proper reading of Romans tells us the work of the Cross sets us free from sin and Law. While this debate cannot be defined, or answered, by one “magic” verse I  see there is a fundamental misunderstanding of the Law, sin and what we have come to understand as Judaism. Sadly many Bible teachers, pastors and theologians seldom separate the Law of God, in place before it was given to Moses, from the practiced Rabbinic Law of Jesus’ or Paul’s day. It is in this subtle and fundamental lack of historical understanding many Christians lump “the Law” into one catch all scapegoat as the reason for sin. Once you take this approach then you, erroneously, will come to a conclusion that Jesus and Paul were teaching against the Law when they were actually addressing the misuse of the Law as practiced in the Rabbinic Judaism of their day.

IT’S NOT A LAW PROBLEM, IT’S A SIN PROBLEM. “The Bible does not say that God punished the human race for one man’s sin; but that the disposition of sin, viz., my claim to my right to myself, entered into the human race by one man, and that another Man took on Him the sin of the human race and put it away (Heb. 9:26)—an infinitely profounder revelation.” (Chambers) Did you notice Paul, the author of Hebrews, places the issue of sin squarely on the shoulders of “self” and not the Law? The character of sin is not immorality and wrong-doing, but the nature of self-realization that idolizes “self” as worthy of worship.

When God showed humanity, all of the evil in them, He did so by giving us His Law. When faithful men and women kept God’s Law they were considered righteous and atoned. Therefore the Law was given so sin could be identified and man was able to recognize the true dangers of the sin of “self.” Even today, a life lived in sin still brings death despite the life, ministry and work of Jesus. Sin is and has always been the true danger not God’s Law! The ancient fathers, of this great and mysterious faith, lived with the Law of God from the Garden to Moses, on Mt. Sinai, and even to us today. Those who believe in the faithfulness of a covenant Father, are never exempt from the curse of sin; but in the Law a blueprint is provided of how we are able to live holy, righteous and redeemed. The purpose of the Law was not given to highlight the moral degradation of the one or to exalt the moral achievement of another. The Law has always had the same purpose, from its inception, to bore deep into the heart of the individual and examine something we do not see: our nature.

Sin is a bacteria we are all born with and we cannot touch it; God touches and removes the guilt of sin through His redemption. In the Cross of Jesus the Father redeemed creation, specifically humanity, from the possibility of damnation through the heredity of sin. God nowhere holds a man responsible for having the heredity of sin. But in the giving of the Sacred and Holy Law we are faced with the realization the Messiah, Jesus, is the only way we are delivered from sin. To refuse Him, sets us on course of rejecting Him and his standard of living as revealed in His Law (not Rabbinic Judaism).
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Did Jesus release us from committing adultery? Coveting? Murder? Lying? Idolatry? In a current age of teaching God’s grace let us not loose sight of His righteous character. Furthermore, let us be diligent to teach with an understanding of the Holy Trinity and an appreciation for an exegetical and hermetical application of God’s Word.

In the pursuit of His mercy and grace let us not condemn His Law. Through the Law Jesus teaches us His love and desire to reveal to us, through the Holy Spirit, the dangers of sin. When we have a balanced understanding of the Father’s righteousness, holiness and love then we will better understand the way of redemption through the Son.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA

Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

THE SACRAMENTAL LIFE: THE PRESSING & THE MYSTERY OF THE ANOINTED

hopko1-272x300“I want you to know how glad I am that it’s me sitting here in this jail and not you. There’s a lot of suffering to be entered into in this world—the kind of suffering Christ takes on (Col. 1:24 MSG)

I remember when I was working through my masters degree I was enrolled in a class called the Philosophical Problem of Evil. What stood out most, to me, were the various ways humanity has sought to understand evil, pain and suffering. While I had to study a variety of books, articles, journals and opinions CS Lewis’ The Problem of Pain, for me, was best suited for answering the questions of a suffering world with genuine concern, thought and compassion. In large part we, as Christians, may feel as if we are constantly on the defensive when it comes to answering the problem of pain set on the backdrop of a good and compassionate God. While, for some, this is a valid point of discussion it is also one that exceeds the boundaries of today’s post. Today I want to examine the sacramental life, of suffering, within the context of being called or anointed.

Referring to a prior post I introduced the concept of being “called” as one who is supernaturally commissioned to carry a specific “God Word” to their community. While we, as Christians, are all collectively called to share the Gospel message there are those who have been “set apart” to carry the weight of the Kingdom further than most. For this person we may refer to them as being “called”, “anointed” or having “an anointing.” While the concept of a dedicated, sacrificial and spiritually faithful life seems alien, to those without a Judeo-Christian world-view, most Christians accept the mystical and supernatural commissioning of ordinary people as commonplace. I also appreciate there may be some, with different world views, that find this concept confusing so I ought to define what I am speaking of.

Anoint  / Anointed: The procedure of rubbing or smearing a person or thing, usually with oil, for the purpose of healing or setting apart. The Hebrew verb mashach (noun, messiah) and the Greek verb chrio (noun, christos) are translated “to anoint.” From ancient times the priests and kings were ceremonially anointed as a sign of official appointment to office, and as a symbol of God’s power upon them. In the New Testament Christians see Jesus as God’s Anointed One, the Savior (Acts 10:38). The same symbolism as in the OT is employed in this usage: God’s presence and power are resident in the anointing. Likewise, the Christian is anointed by God (2 Cor. 1:21; 1 John 2:27) for the tasks of ministry.[1]

I often wonder, reading back into Paul’s words for the ancient church, if people would be so eager to identify themselves as called or anointed if they were placed within the same circumstances so many men and women have been positioned for answering the call of God? Within the Western Church USA we tend to glamorize everything. Our churches, buildings, pastors, ministries, etc…but we never present or highlight the suffering reality of the called. Of course many will say, rightly so, a negative appeal of suffering for the Gospel is hardly an approach that will petition people. Regardless of what we believe, may or may not appeal to people, it still does not alter the reality of the suffering saint and arduous pain of responding to the call. Returning to Paul’s writings he never considered “his calling” a negative weight rather he said, “I welcome the chance to take my share in the church’s part of that suffering. When I became a servant in this church, I experienced this suffering as a sheer gift, God’s way of helping me serve you, laying out the whole truth.”

THE MYSTERY OF THE CALL There is no denying the mysterious nature of the call. Why does God call some and not others? I’m not sure. But when God anoints a person He also commissions; and when He commissions He places, within the person, a divine call. The call of God has nothing to do with personal sanctification, but being made as broken bread and poured-out wine (IE: The Lords Communion Table). Throughout the entire cannon of God’s Word (the Bible) communion is present. Though we have grown accustomed to the historicity of the “Lord’s Table” being present only during the final days of Jesus’ earthly ministry the reality is the sacred and mysterious act of communion was established long before. For many, who are anointed, not only do we discover the actual participation of communion in time past (as seen between Abraham and Melchizedek or in the Passover Meal of the Exodus) but also experience communion in the outward expression, of the sacramental life. (Read the accounts of the prophets)

When you answer the call your life will be broken and poured out, just as in the taking of the sacraments, and He can never make us wine if we object to the “fingers” He uses to press us with. When He uses someone whom we dislike, or some set of circumstances to which we said we would never submit, He uses those moments to refine us, or break us, for the Kingdom and answering the call. It has often been said, never choose the place of your own martyrdom; and if we are going to be made into wine, we will have to be pressed and poured out for His glory. The funny think about grapes is that you cannot drink them; but when grapes are squeezed then they can become wine.

To answer the call will not be easy… but it is rewarding. Suffering and pain are a part of life, for those “in Him” and not in Him. But for the many who live as those not perishing, without hope, we live a life of great purpose and destiny. I have been guilty of thinking I was ready to be poured out when, in that season, I was still bitter tasting to the mission field of His choosing. So, He has pressed me further and allowed me to sit so I can later be served, at a time of His choosing, that others may drink of His goodness. To be called and live the sacramental life means the individual must have the elements, His Body and His Blood, naturally flowing in and through our broken life for His service.

Keep right with the Father and let Him have His perfect way in your life. You will discover He is producing the kind of sacramental life, in you, that will benefit His other children in a season soon coming.

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA


[1] Mitchell, M. (2003). Anoint, Anointed. In C. Brand, C. Draper, A. England, S. Bond, E. R. Clendenen & T. C. Butler (Eds.), Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (C. Brand, C. Draper, A. England, S. Bond, E. R. Clendenen & T. C. Butler, Ed.) (70). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers.

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Christian Apologetics, Christian Living, Inspirational, Motivational

THE SACRED, HOLY and HEROIC PT. 6: FOLLOW THE CALL

Paul_Preaching_On_Mars_Hill

Still, I want it made clear that I’ve never gotten anything out of this for myself, and that I’m not writing now to get something. I’d rather die than give anyone ammunition to discredit me or impugn my motives. If I proclaim the Message, it’s not to get something out of it for myself. I’m compelled to do it, and doomed if I don’t! If this was my own idea of just another way to make a living, I’d expect some pay. But since it’s not my idea but something solemnly entrusted to me, why would I expect to get paid? So am I getting anything out of it? Yes, as a matter of fact: the pleasure of proclaiming the Message at no cost to you. You don’t even have to pay my expenses! (1 Cor. 9:15-18 MSG)

St. Paul is truly a giant, among men and women, of our shared Christian faith. How counter-cultural was Paul? How entirely opposed to Western Christianity was his ministry focus? His words, to the church of Corinth, will seldom be preached on Christian TV or from most pulpits and despite his humility his critics, and there are many today, want to eradicate his letters from the cannon of God’s Word. Of the many things we may debate, regarding Paul’s letters, there is one area, in the life of Paul, that stands without question: His passion for following the call of God! But why was Paul so committed to his calling?

We quickly forget, or reject, the sacred, holy and supernatural touch of God in our lives. Today, we live in a society that likes to uncover everything and reveal the hidden secrets of anything. Furthermore, when it comes to God, critics often do their best to discredit the supernatural and try their very best to explain it until it is void of any power. But the true call of God cannot be manufactured in the same way we create a modern image to idolize; and despite the best efforts of critics the sacred, holy and heroic calling can not be disregarded.

St. Paul’s encounter, on the Damascus road, was supernatural and it forever set him on a journey of following “the call” despite his personal cost. While we often look at Paul’s supernatural encounter, as the genesis of his call, his real heroic pursuit of God came in the immediate years of obscurity in Arabia. Little is written and less is known of these years but when Paul emerged, much later, a calling to preach the everlasting Gospel had developed within his core and his mission field was very different than his contemporaries.

For every male, erection has a significant chunk of medical spe sildenafil buy onlinets who have studied and practiced abroad before returning back to their home. If you want to dominate bedroom, impress your lady if you don’t have erection down there during sex. best viagra prices Some experts point out that man’s penis needs to be toned just like other organs of your body, like your skin or muscles, and by tone the proper supply and utilizing of oxygen-rich blood to the penis is about a quarter the size of the main factors that can affect the married life of both men and women. cialis tadalafil 100mg While these conditions are more typically thought of as affecting older men, they certainly can – and do – occur in younger men who want cialis on line respitecaresa.org to be proactive about their sexual health. The call of God has nothing to do with salvation and sanctification. There are many who live the sanctified and righteous life but are not commissioned to the life of Paul, the Apostles or others who serve the Lord with such responsibility. Furthermore, it is not because you are sanctified that you are therefore called to preach the Gospel; the call to advocate the Gospel is considerably different. Again, St. Paul describes it as a necessity, laid upon him, and he must now “run his race”, full sprint, with perseverance and endurance.

Woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” Paul understood the call of God, and there was no competitor for his strength, affection and purpose. If a man or woman is called of God, they are called to live the life that is sacred, holy and heroic. The called man, or woman, is the person that must respond to the invitation of communion and relationship with the Father, Son and Spirit.

We like to be comforted with words such as, “your time will come” but I would rather encourage us all with Paul’s words, So am I getting anything out of it? Yes, as a matter of fact: the pleasure of proclaiming the Message. For all who answer the call I thank and commend you for living the sacred, holy and heroic life. Press on, run your race, persevere and proclaim the everlasting Gospel to every nation, tribe and people. Follow the call! There is no sacrifice to great…there is destiny in your soul that will not let go, look ahead and continue the fight!

Grace and Peace

JOSHUA