DEAR GOD: Living In Your Light Turning From Darkness In Your Love~

by C D SWANSON // September 29, 2024 // No Comments

Living in the Light: A Personal Reflection on John 3:20-21

The verses from John 3:20-21 resonate deeply with the essence of Christian living. They draw a stark contrast between those who shun the light due to their evil deeds and those who embrace it, allowing their actions to be seen as works of God. In today’s world, these verses challenge us to examine our lives and our relationship with truth and transparency.

Embracing the Light

Living in the light means more than just avoiding wrongdoing; it involves a conscious decision to live openly and honestly before God and others. It requires courage to let our true selves be seen, flaws and all, trusting that God’s grace covers us. In a society that often values appearances and success over integrity, this can be a daunting task.

The Struggle with Darkness

We all have moments when we prefer to hide our shortcomings, fearing judgment or rejection. This is the essence of what John describes as hating the light. It’s a natural human tendency to protect ourselves from criticism. However, the beauty of the Gospel is that it invites us to step into the light, not to be condemned, but to be healed and transformed.

Supporting Scriptures

1 John 1:7: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.”
Ephesians 5:8: “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
Matthew 5:14-16: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Reflective Questions

What areas of my life am I tempted to keep in the dark?
How can I practice living more transparently and truthfully?
In what ways can I let my light shine to reflect God’s love and truth to others?

A Prayer for Living in the Light

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us into Your marvelous light. Help us to live transparently, embracing Your truth in every aspect of our lives. Give us the courage to confront our shortcomings and the grace to grow from them. May our lives reflect Your love and truth, drawing others to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Ponder Scripture for the Day

Psalm 119:105: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

A Blessing for the Readers

May you walk in the light of God’s truth, finding peace and joy in His presence. May your life be a beacon of His love, guiding others to the hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ. Amen.

I hope this reflection encourages you to embrace the light and live authentically in God’s truth and love. How do you feel about these verses and their application in your life?

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DEAR GOD: Pastures & Sheep In Your Meadow LORD~

by C D SWANSON // August 31, 2024 // No Comments

“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today if ye will hear his voice.” – Psalm 95:6-7

Psalm 95:6-7 is a beautiful invitation to worship and recognize our relationship with God. It calls us to humble ourselves before our Creator, acknowledging His sovereignty and our dependence on Him. This passage is a reminder of the intimate and caring relationship we have with God, who is not only our Creator but also our Shepherd.

Heartfelt Thoughts

When we read, “O come, let us worship and bow down,” we are reminded of the importance of humility in our relationship with God. Worship is not just about singing songs or attending church services; it is about recognizing God’s greatness and our need for Him. Bowing down signifies our submission to His will and our reverence for His majesty.

The phrase “let us kneel before the Lord our maker” emphasizes the act of physically and spiritually humbling ourselves before God. Kneeling is a posture of surrender and devotion, symbolizing our acknowledgment of God’s authority over our lives.

“For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand” speaks to the personal and caring nature of God. As our Shepherd, He guides, protects, and provides for us. This imagery of being the sheep of His hand highlights our dependence on Him for sustenance and direction.

“Today if ye will hear his voice” is a call to attentiveness and obedience. It reminds us that God is always speaking to us, but we must be willing to listen and respond to His guidance.

Supportive Scriptures

John 10:27-28: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
Isaiah 40:11: “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.”
Psalm 23:1-3: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

Moral Thoughts

This passage encourages us to live a life of humility, recognizing our need for God’s guidance and provision. It calls us to be attentive to His voice and to follow His leading. In a world that often values self-sufficiency and independence, Psalm 95:6-7 reminds us of the importance of relying on God and submitting to His will.

Meditative Thoughts

As we meditate on this passage, let us consider the ways in which we can humble ourselves before God in our daily lives. How can we make worship a central part of our relationship with Him? How can we be more attentive to His voice and responsive to His guidance?

Reflective Questions

In what areas of my life do I need to humble myself before God?
How can I make worship a more integral part of my daily routine?
Am I truly listening for God’s voice, and how can I be more attentive to His guidance?

Prayer

“Dear LORD, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. We bow down and kneel before You, acknowledging You as our Creator and Shepherd. Thank You for Your constant guidance, protection, and provision. Help us to humble ourselves before You and to be attentive to Your voice. May we live our lives in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Takeaway Thought for the Day

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1

May this verse remind us of God’s constant care and provisions, and may we find peace and comfort in His loving Presence, and follow Him always~

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DEAR GOD: Focusing & Meditating On Your Word Daily~

by C D SWANSON // August 28, 2024 // No Comments

Proverbs 4:20-22 (KJV)

“My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.”

Focusing On His Word

Then: In the context of ancient Israel, Proverbs 4:21-22 is part of a larger passage where Solomon, the wise king, is imparting wisdom to his son. The “them” in these verses refers to the words of wisdom and instruction that Solomon is sharing. He emphasizes the importance of keeping these teachings constantly in sight and deeply embedded in one’s heart. The promise attached to this adherence is profound: these words bring life and health to those who embrace them.

Today: In contemporary times, these verses still hold significant relevance. They remind us of the timeless value of wisdom and understanding. In a world filled with distractions and conflicting messages, keeping God’s wisdom at the forefront of our minds and hearts can guide us through life’s challenges. The promise of life and health can be seen as both spiritual and physical well-being, emphasizing the holistic benefits of living a life grounded in divine wisdom.

Moral Thoughts

Value of Wisdom: The verses highlight the intrinsic value of wisdom and understanding. In a world where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce, these verses remind us to seek and cherish true wisdom.
Holistic Health: The promise of health to all flesh suggests a holistic approach to well-being. True wisdom not only nourishes the mind and spirit but also has tangible benefits for our physical health.
Consistency: The call to keep wisdom constantly in sight and heart underscores the importance of consistency in our spiritual practices. It’s not enough to seek wisdom sporadically; it must be a continuous pursuit.

Reflective Questions

What are the sources of wisdom in my life, and how do I prioritize them?
How can I ensure that I keep God’s teachings at the forefront of my daily life?
In what ways have I experienced the holistic benefits of living according to divine wisdom?
How can I cultivate a consistent practice of seeking and applying wisdom in my life?

Meditative Takeaways

Daily Reflection: Take a few moments each day to reflect on a piece of wisdom from the Bible or another trusted source. Meditate on its meaning and how it applies to your life.
Heart and Mind Alignment: Strive to align your thoughts and actions with the wisdom you hold dear. Let it guide your decisions and interactions.
Holistic Health: Consider how your spiritual practices contribute to your overall well-being. Seek a balance that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.

Prayer

“Dear LORD, our Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your wisdom. Help us to keep Your teachings ever before our eyes and deeply rooted in our hearts. May Your words be life and health to us, guiding us through every challenge and blessing us with holistic well-being. Grant us the consistency to seek Your wisdom daily and the discernment to apply it in all areas of our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Supportive Scriptures

James 1:5 (KJV): “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV): “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Psalm 119:105 (KJV): “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

I hope this reflection brings you the peace of the LORD our God, and an abundance of inspiration and encouragement.

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DEAR GOD: I Embrace Life Through Your Son~

by C D SWANSON // August 19, 2024 // No Comments

-Embracing Life Through the Son-

“He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” – 1 John 5:12

This verse from 1 John 5:12 encapsulates a profound truth about the essence of life and the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith. It draws a clear line between those who have embraced Jesus as their Savior and those who have not, emphasizing the transformative power of having a relationship with Him.

Supportive Scriptures

John 14:6: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
- This verse reinforces the exclusivity of Jesus as the path to eternal life, echoing the message in 1 John 5:12.
John 3:36: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.”
- Here, the promise of eternal life through belief in Jesus is contrasted with the consequence of rejecting Him.
Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- This verse highlights the gift of eternal life that comes through Jesus, contrasting it with the death that sin brings.

Moral Thoughts

The moral takeaway from 1 John 5:12 is the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is not merely about acknowledging His existence but about embracing Him as the source of our life. This relationship transforms our lives, guiding us to live in accordance with His teachings and love.

Meditative Takeaways

Reflect on the Gift of Life: Meditate on the incredible gift of life that comes through Jesus. Consider how this life is not just eternal but also abundant and fulfilling in the present.
Examine Your Relationship with Jesus: Take time to introspect and evaluate your relationship with Jesus. Are you living in a way that reflects His presence in your life?
Gratitude for Salvation: Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the salvation and eternal life that Jesus offers. Let this gratitude inspire you to live a life that honors Him.

Contrasting Thoughts

While 1 John 5:12 presents a clear dichotomy, it is essential to approach this truth with compassion and understanding. Many people may not yet know Jesus or may have different beliefs. As Christians, our role is to share the love and truth of Jesus with gentleness and respect, recognizing that faith is a personal journey.

Conclusion

1 John 5:12 is a powerful reminder of the centrality of Jesus in our lives. It calls us to embrace Him fully, recognizing that true life is found in Him alone. As we reflect on this verse, let us be inspired to deepen our relationship with Jesus, live out His teachings, and share His love with others.

May this reflection bring you comfort and guidance, especially as you navigate your health concerns. Remember, you are not alone, and the love of Jesus is always with you.

“Dear LORD -We thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who brings us life and hope. As we reflect on the words of 1 John 5:12, we are reminded of the profound truth that in Him, we find true life. Lord, we lift up our concerns and anxieties to You, especially those related to our health. We ask for Your healing touch upon our bodies, minds, and spirits. Help us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to live out His teachings, and to share His love with those around us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guiding us in every step we take. We pray for wisdom and discernment in all our decisions, especially regarding our health. Lead us to the right paths and provide us with the support we need. Surround us with Your love and grace and let us always remember that we are never alone. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

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DEAR GOD: I Find True Satisfaction In You Alone~

by C D SWANSON // July 27, 2024 // No Comments

Finding True Satisfaction in God

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4

In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and temporary satisfactions, the Bible calls us to find our deepest joy and contentment in God. Psalm 37:4 encourages us to delight ourselves in the Lord, promising that He will fulfill the desires of our hearts. This profound truth invites us to explore what it means to be truly satisfied in Him.

Original Thoughts and Moral Reflections

Psalm 37:4teaches us that when we align our desires with God’s will, He fulfills our deepest longings. This alignment is not about God granting every wish but transforming our hearts to desire what He desires. When we delight in Him, our priorities shift, and we find joy in His presence and purposes.

Psalm 22:26highlights the satisfaction that comes from seeking God. True contentment is not found in material possessions or worldly achievements but in a relationship with Him. The meek, those who humbly seek the Lord, are promised satisfaction and eternal life.

Psalm 16:11reminds us that true joy and eternal pleasures are found in God’s presence. Our ultimate satisfaction is not in the temporary pleasures of this world but in the everlasting joy that comes from being with Him. This verse calls us to seek His presence daily, knowing that in Him, we find fullness of joy.

Jeremiah 31:25 speaks to God’s promise to refresh and satisfy those who are weary. In our busy and often exhausting lives, God offers us rest and renewal. He is our source of strength, and when we turn to Him, He refreshes our souls.

Takeaways and Christianity Paths in Life

Delighting in God: To delight in the Lord means to find our greatest joy in Him. This involves spending time in His Word, worshiping Him, and seeking His will in our lives. As we delight in Him, our desires become aligned with His, and we experience true satisfaction.
Seeking God Earnestly: True satisfaction comes from seeking God with all our hearts. This means prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. When we seek Him earnestly, we find the contentment and peace that only He can provide.
Experiencing God’s Joy: God’s presence brings fullness of joy. By spending time in prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word, we can experience the joy that comes from being close to Him. This joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on our relationship with Him.
Relying on God for Strength: In times of weariness and struggle, God is our source of strength and refreshment. By turning to Him in prayer and trusting in His promises, we can find the renewal and strength we need to face life’s challenges.

Unified Closing Prayer

“Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for being our source of true satisfaction and joy. Help us to delight in You and seek Your presence daily. Transform our hearts to desire what You desire and align our wills with Yours. Refresh our weary souls and fill us with Your peace and strength. May we always find our deepest contentment in You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Message of Hope

In today’s world, filled with distractions and challenges, finding satisfaction in God is more important than ever. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that true joy and contentment are found in Him. By delighting in the Lord, seeking His presence, and relying on His strength, we can experience the fullness of life that He promises. May this truth fill our hearts with hope and guide us on our journey of faith.

DEAR GOD: I Have Freedom In Christ – Beautiful Name~

by C D SWANSON // July 13, 2024 // No Comments

Embracing the Freedom in Christ

Romans 8:2 states, “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of Christian freedom and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It speaks to the liberation from the bondage of sin and the promise of new life through Jesus Christ.

Christianity Then and Now

In the early days of Christianity, believers faced immense persecution and challenges. The Roman Empire, with its pantheon of gods and rigid societal structures, was often hostile to the message of Christ. Yet, the early Christians found solace and strength in the teachings of Jesus and the writings of the apostles.

Romans 8:2 was -and has been a pillar and platitude of hope, a reminder that despite the external pressures, there is freedom that abounds in Christ. And freedom that was not just a future promise- but a present reality, empowering us to live boldly and righteously.

Today, Christianity continues to offer this profound sense of freedom. While the nature of challenges has evolved, the core message remains the same.

Modern believers navigate a world filled with distractions, moral relativism, and various forms of bondage—be it addiction, fear, or societal pressures. Romans 8:2 reassures us that the Spirit of life in Christ still liberates us from these chains, offering a path to true freedom and peace.

Moral Thoughts

The freedom mentioned in Romans 8:2 is not a license to live recklessly but a call to live righteously. It is a freedom that comes with responsibility. As Christians, we are called to reflect Christ in our actions, to love our neighbors, and to uphold justice and mercy. This freedom empowers us to break free from selfish desires and to live in a way that honors God and serves others.

Reflective Questions

How do I experience the freedom in Christ in my daily life?
What are the areas in my life where I still feel bound by sin or fear?
How can I use my freedom in Christ to serve others and glorify God?
In what ways can I deepen my relationship with the Holy Spirit to experience more of this liberating power?

Takeaway Thoughts

Romans 8:2 invites us to embrace a life of freedom and purpose. It challenges us to move beyond the constraints of sin and death and to live in the fullness of the Spirit. This freedom is not just for our benefit but for the benefit of those around us. As we live out this freedom, we become beacons of hope and love in a world that desperately needs it.

Meditative Thoughts

Take a moment to meditate on the following:

Freedom in Christ: Visualize the chains of sin and fear falling away as you embrace the Spirit of life in Christ.
Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: Feel the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit in your daily decisions and actions.
Living Righteously: Reflect on how you can align your life more closely with the teachings of Jesus, using your freedom to make a positive impact.

Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD -we come before You with grateful hearts, thanking You for the freedom we have in Christ Jesus. We acknowledge that it is by Your Spirit that we are set free from the law of sin and death. Lord, help us to live in this freedom daily, to walk in righteousness, and to reflect Your love to those around us. Unite us as one body in Christ, empowering us to support and uplift each other. May Your Spirit guide us, strengthen us, and fill us with Your peace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Thought of the Day

“True freedom is found in Christ alone.
Embrace it, live it, and share it with the world.”

May this reflection on Romans 8:2 inspire you to live a life of freedom and purpose, grounded in the love and power of Jesus Christ according to His will and doctrine, all the days of your life…

DEAR GOD: Sojourning In Your Tent Of Righteousness~

by C D SWANSON // June 28, 2024 // No Comments

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O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart- Psalm 15:1-2 (ESV)

Psalm 15:1-2 beautifully captures the essence of a righteous life. Let’s explore its meaning and try to grasp what we are called to do as Christians.

Sojourning in God’s Tent: This phrase symbolizes seeking God’s presence and dwelling close to Him. It reflects a desire for intimacy with the Divine. To sojourn in God’s tent means to live a life centered around faith, prayer, and worship.

Doing What Is Right: Actions matter. Living justly, showing kindness, and helping others align with God’s heart.

Dwelling on the Holy Hill: The “holy hill” refers to Mount Zion, where the temple stood in Jerusalem. Spiritually, it represents being in God’s presence. Those who dwell there are those who live uprightly and honorably.

“O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1, ESV)

Psalm 15, attributed to King David, serves as a timeless guide for righteous living. It outlines virtues and moral standards that define a life acceptable to God. Imagine standing before God’s sacred dwelling—the holy hill. Who gains access? The psalmist answers: the blameless, the truth-speakers, the compassionate, and the just. Let’s dissect this meaning further and try to gain access into the full meaning and as it applies today in our times as well.

Walking Blamelessly: Not perfection, but sincere effort. Integrity, honesty, and moral consistency matter. Doing all things that we know would please God. Doing nothing of a devious nature, or underhanded matter, instead concentrating on what is pure and good in our attempts each day.

Speaking Truth in the Heart: Beyond mere words, it’s about genuine intentions. No deceit, no double-mindedness-or deceiving others along the way. It is a matter of speaking truth and living with integrity and fortitude of strength through Christ.

Honoring Others: Esteem those who fear the Lord. Reject vile behavior but extend grace as Christ extends it to us. Be kind and encouraging. Engage in circumstances that we are called upon to do so. Be with others and offer words to those who need to be encouraged and comforted or supported.

Keeping Promises: Even when it hurts, uphold commitments. Not just speaking – but applying what we are “saying” and putting it into action. Talk is “words” but “actions” are putting forth and doing as we are saying.

Financial Integrity: No exploitation, no bribery. Uphold justice. Just pure truth and honesty – no trickery. Nothing of a devious or false manner or front.

Relevance Today

In our chaotic world, Psalm 15 remains relevant at all times.

Integrity Amid Deception: In a culture of misinformation, truth-telling matters. Can we be voices of honesty?

Compassion in Conflict: Amid polarization, can we honor those who differ from us? Extend grace even when it’s hard?

Promises Kept: Trust erodes when promises break. Can we be people of unwavering commitment?

Ethical Finances: In a profit-driven society, can we resist exploiting others? Uphold justice, even in financial matters?

Moral Takeaway

“He who does these things shall never be moved.” (Psalm 15:5, ESV)

Steadfastness comes from righteous living. When our foundation rests on integrity, we withstand life’s storms. When we stand on the Rock, we are sure footed and impervious to life’s evil mockery and are strong in the face of adversity. When we meditate of God’s Word, His Promises, and His Presence in our lives, we are able to “move mountains” and “walk on water” with His holy hands guiding us, directing us, leading us, healing us. We not be moved, we cannot be veered in another direction – we stay the path of righteousness and the road to eternity.

Reflective Question

How can we apply Psalm 15’s principles in our workplaces, families, and communities? This is something we should all attempt to incorporate into our lives today. How can we reflect Christ and His principles and doctrine and weave them into all of our encounters and purpose in this lifetime?

Unified Prayer

“Dear LORD -We seek to dwell on Your holy hill. Grant us strength to walk blamelessly, speak truth, honor others, and keep our promises. May our lives reflect Your righteousness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.”

Meditative Takeaway

As we navigate today’s world, let Psalm 15 guide us. Dwelling on the holy hill requires more than rituals—it demands a heart transformed by grace. May we always inspire to live righteously, even in a turbulent world.

Monday Mantra: I am now free to move forward in my life | Erika Dolnackova

DEAR GOD: Losing Myself & Finding You In All I Do~

by C D SWANSON // June 27, 2024 // No Comments

Pin on Quotes

“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” –Matthew 16:25

This verse from Matthew 16:25 -encapsulates a powerful paradox—one that challenges our understanding of life, sacrifice, and purpose. Let’s delve into its layers of meaning and see if we can embrace the true purpose and overall reason for Christ’s Powerful Word!

1. The Paradox of Self-Preservation and Self-Sacrifice

At first glance, it seems counterintuitive: saving one’s life leads to loss, while losing it for Christ’s sake results in finding it. But this paradox invites us to consider deeper truths. It’s a way of following Christ. It is an inherent part of who we are as Christians, and what we are called to do in this lifetime, according to His will and purpose for us. “Losing our life” means to leave behind our former self – and to experience a “new spiritual birth” and to become one with Christ! In other words, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” as it so eloquently states in John 3:30. Meaning “loss of our former selves” to decrease and the LORD increases in us.

Moral Reflections:

How do we balance self-preservation with selflessness?
Are there moments when we cling to safety at the expense of greater purpose?
Do we do things out of an obligatory reasoning?
Or do we do things with our heart while honoring the LORD always?

2. The Call to Radical Discipleship

Jesus often called His followers to radical commitment. He didn’t promise an easy path; instead, He invited them to lay down their lives for His cause. He tells us that we are to emulate Him in the best way we can. Given that we are mortals and nothing more – we will experience difficult paths and moments in our lives. When we do – we know that we have a “higher authority” and Divine LORD who guides us through each moments in our lives.

Ethical Consideration:

What does it mean to be a disciple today?
How can we live out this radical commitment in our daily choices?

3. Christianity Today: A Journey of Surrender

In our contemporary context, the paradox remains relevant. Christianity isn’t about mere survival; it’s about surrendering to God’s will. It’s about giving yourself fully and openly accepting Him as LORD and Savior over your life.

It is an acknowledgment of acquiescing to Him and His Word-and His voice- and His commandments- and His doctrine – every single day of our lives, here and now and to come – for all eternity!

Christian Reflection:

How can we embrace surrender without fear?
What areas of our lives need a deeper surrender to Christ?

4. Meditative Takeaways

When have you experienced the tension between self-preservation and self-sacrifice?
What does losing your life for Christ’s sake look like in practical terms?
Seek moments of surrender—whether in small acts of kindness or significant life choices. Trust that in losing, you’ll find true life, with Christ as the sole purpose of such life.

We as brothers and sisters are one, bound by faith and love. In this moment, we set aside our differences, our worries, and our burdens. We stand together, recognizing that we are part of a greater whole. The LORD unites us with a commonality which is to say, “His Spirit” and “His blood” which washed us clean. Let’s navigate the world together as Christ intended His followers to do. Let’s ask the LORD for His Presence in all things we endeavor to take on.

LORD we ask that You help us in our daily walks in life, especially the following:

May we be united in compassion, that we may see the pain of others as our own.
In forgiveness, that we may release grudges and embrace reconciliation. In hope, that we may find strength even in adversity.
In love, that we may extend grace to those around us.
May our hearts beat in rhythm with Yours, O God.
May our prayers rise like incense, weaving a tapestry of unity across time and space.
We pray for our world: for healing, for peace, for justice.
May Your light pierce the darkness, and may our actions reflect Your love.

Unity Prayer

“Lord, help us navigate this paradox. May we willingly lose our lives for Your sake, knowing that true fulfillment lies in surrendering to Your purpose. That we lose our former selves and commit to the new Creature we became through your blood that washed us clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

May these reflections deepen your faith and heartfelt journey…

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DEAR GOD: May We All Have A Spirit Of Giving Like The Widow

by C D SWANSON // May 10, 2024 // No Comments

Whose Recognition Do You Seek? — Watchtower ONLINE LIBRARY The Widow’s Mite: A Lesson in Sacrificial Giving

In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter a poignant tale of a poor widow who, in the act of giving two small copper coins, teaches us a profound lesson about the heart of giving. The verse in question, Mark 12:41-44, describes Jesus observing the crowd as they put money into the temple treasury. Many wealthy people threw in large amounts, but a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.

Jesus calls His disciples to Him and says, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

This act of the widow is not just a lesson in generosity, but a call to sacrificial giving. It contrasts the widow’s offering with that of the rich, highlighting the disparity not in the amount, but in the sacrifice. Supporting verses that echo this sentiment include 2 Corinthians 9:7, which encourages each person to give what they have decided in their heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Moral Reflections

The widow’s mite invites us to reflect on our own giving. Are we giving just from our abundance, or are we willing to give in a way that truly costs us something? Luke 21:1-4 parallels the account in Mark and serves as a mirror, reflecting our own attitudes towards material possessions and the act of giving.

Reflective Questions

How does the widow’s act of giving challenge your current understanding of generosity?
In what ways can you practice sacrificial giving in your own life, even if it goes unnoticed by others?

Closing Prayer In Unity

“Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You humbled by the lesson of the widow’s mite. Teach us to give, not just from our surplus, but sacrificially, with a heart full of love and devotion. May our offerings, no matter how small they seem, be a sweet aroma to You. Grant us the courage to trust in Your provision, as the widow trusted in Your care. Help us to remember that it is not the magnitude of our gift, but the magnitude of our faith that truly matters to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

May this Biblical narrative invite us to explore the theme of giving and its deeper implications on our moral and spiritual lives. I hope this resonates with you and offers the reflection and inspiration that we all need as Christians…

DEAR GOD: Your Enduring Presence Comforts Me~

by C D SWANSON // May 2, 2024 // No Comments

What Does Falling in Love With Jesus Actually Mean?

“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” – Matthew 28:20

Enduring Presence

In the closing verses of the Gospel of Matthew, we find the resurrected Christ imparting a final commission to His disciples. This passage, often referred to as the Great Commission, encapsulates the mission of the church and the enduring Presence of Christ.

The Command to Teach

Christ’s directive to “teach all nations” is a call to discipleship that extends beyond the mere transmission of knowledge. It is an invitation to a life-transforming journey that aligns one’s actions with the teachings of Jesus.

What does it mean for us to observe all that Christ has commanded
How does this shape our daily lives?

The Assurance of Presence

Perhaps the most comforting aspect of this verse is the promise that follows the command: “I am with you alway.” In a world fraught with uncertainty and change, the constancy of Christ’s presence offers an anchor for the soul. How do we experience this presence in our lives? In what ways does it sustain us through trials and tribulations?

The Scope of the Promise

The phrase “even unto the end of the world” speaks to the timeless nature of Christ’s commitment to His followers. It is a promise that transcends generations, cultures, and epochs. As we face the challenges of our own era, how does this assurance shape our perspective on the future?

A Moral Reflection

The moral imperative embedded in this scripture is clear: to live out the teachings of Christ and to share them with others. It calls us to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects the love and grace of the One we follow. Are we living up to this calling? Are our lives a testament to the teachings we have received?

A Reflective Close

As we ponder the depth of Christ’s commission and the promise of His presence, let us take a moment to reflect on our role in this divine narrative. Are we active participants in the mission of teaching and sharing the Gospel? Do we find solace in the promise of Christ’s enduring presence?

Unity Prayer

“Dear LORD, we are humbled by Your great commission and the promise of Your eternal presence. Grant us the wisdom to teach Your ways and the courage to live them out. May we feel Your presence guiding us at every step, and may our lives be a reflection of Your love until the end of time, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Let’s embrace the teachings of Christ and find comfort in His everlasting presence all the days of our lives…