pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: Jesus Christ


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Walk Boldly in Faith

Paul deeply loved the churches he started and those he nurtured along in their faith, yet he also felt the pull of heaven.  His journey had been long and at times trying.  As he sat in prison and reflected on his journey, he could see that there was work yet for him to do.  The churches he was shepherding still needed his help to continue to grow in their faith.

Paul also had a sense that just as he was continuing the work of Christ, so too would others continue his work.  As he sat in prison, Paul also had a sense that through his faithful example, others we being strengthened in their willingness to be bold for Christ.

Each of us have others that we help to grow in their faith.  It may be family, friends, or coworkers.  It may be the people in our small group.  And just like Paul, our faithful witness to Christ matters to those in our sphere of influence.  As we walk out our faith journey, we too carry Christ with us as we provide an example for others.  May we, like Paul, walk boldly and full of the love of Jesus Christ.  May our faith be the light that helps others along their journey with Christ.

Scripture reference: Philippians 1: 21-26


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Shining the Light

Paul calls us to wake up and realize that our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  He reminds us that the day is almost here and calls us to put on the armor of light.  He challenges us to healthy living and an avoidance of our sinful desires.

How we live matters because we do cast a light into the world.  Is our light a ray of hope?  Is our light a reflection of the love of Christ?  On a daily basis people see us and watch us.  It is a challenge to live fully in the light.  We face our own earthly desires and must filter through the temptations and allures of the world.  On a personal level, we must strive to live as children of the light.

Our churches also cast a light into the world.  Is our church shining a light out into the neighborhood and into the greater community?  Do others know the love of Christ through our communal outreach?  Too often the light is dim.  Too often we stay within our own walls.  As a church, may we also strive to clothe the body with Christ, so that His light and love shine forth into the lives of those in need.

Scripture reference: Romans 13: 11-14


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Ready to Go??

Romans 10 poses two great questions for us to consider: “How can they call on the one they have not believed in?  How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?”  And one of my own: how many people do I know who have not truly heard the good news of Jesus Christ?

In his call for sharers of the Word, Paul tells us that blessed are the feet of those who go to share the story.  In the Great Commission, it is the first thing Jesus said is required of us: go!  Only after we go can we share and teach.  Are you feeling the urge to be a sharer of the Word?

Jesus shows us what love is: He suffered and died on a cross for us while we were still enemies, while we were still separated from Him because of our sins.  He suffered in order to fully love us.  Isn’t that a story worth sharing with others?  Are the bottoms of your feet feeling itchy to get going?

Scripture reference: Romans 10: 5-15