5 Little Monkey's Jumping On The Bed - The Remix

 In the heart of the jungle, there lived a mischievous monkey named Carl. He was one of a lively bunch – 99 siblings, to be exact. One sunny day, the playful monkeys gathered for their favorite activity: jumping on the bed.

As they leaped and giggled, the bed bounced with joy. However, tragedy struck when Carl lost his balance, falling off the bed and shattering not only his finger but also his hopes and dreams. Wincing in pain, Carl urged his siblings to cease their jumping frenzy, but they paid little attention.

One by one, Carl’s brothers and sisters tumbled off the bed, creating a chaotic scene. The once lively room turned into a heap of monkey confusion, complete with a surprising mix of poop and blood.

Just as the chaos reached its peak, Daddy Monkey arrived home, bewildered by the sight that awaited him. In a state of shock, he dialed the doctor for help. The wise doctor, upon hearing the tale, sternly declared, “No more monkeys jumping on the bed!”

With a heavy heart, Daddy Monkey tried to clean up the mess, hoping the doctor’s words would resonate with his adventurous offspring. And so, in the jungle, the bed remained empty, a solemn reminder of the day Carl’s misadventure brought chaos and a valuable lesson to the monkey family. The end.

1 Corinthians 13:3 - A Poem

 In the grandeur of deeds, a symphony of might.

A soul striving high, bathed in radiant light.

Yet, if love's gentle whisper remains unheard,

All endeavors falter, like a song deferred.

Gold may cascade from the hands so free,

Charity bestowed with a generous decree.

But devoid of love, a mere clang of sound,

A hollow echo on life's sacred ground.

In faith's ascent, to the mountain's peak,

A fervent flame, a passionate streak.

Yet, without love's tender, guiding hand,

The summit reached is but shifting sand.

What value in sacrifice, if love's not the core?

A banquet laid bare, an empty store.

For in the absence of love's gentle grace, 

We stumble in darkness, a fleeting chase.

So let love be the anchor, the compass true,

In the verses of life, a melody anew.

For in 1 Corinthians 13:3, we find the key,

Love, the essence, a true legacy.

Is There Comfort In Death?

This evening while I was lounging with my daughter in our reclining chair, I closed my eyes for a few moments to unwind, (totally doing the dad dozing off in the chair after eating dinner bit) and asked God to speak through me. Now, before you stop reading this post and start thinking that I think I am some kind of clairvoyant, let me clear the air. I believe that when you pray and ask The Lord to speak through you, that it is opening your heart to have a conversation with the Holy Spirit. It is surrendering yourself to God, and saying, “Use me!” I digress, I had asked God to speak through me, to see how I can share His Word, and how I can help His children.

 So, there I sat, for what seemed like the shortest five minutes in silent prayer. I was fighting the urge to doze off as any busy parent might do, when it came to me like a hungry ranch crew when the dinner bell rings. Earlier in the day, I heard the sad news that one of my colleagues had lost his mother the night before. Three days prior was the anniversary of my biological father’s passing, and the celebration of the life of MLK.

 The death of a loved one is never easy, nor is it easy to talk about. Death is the number one fear, and rightfully so, but the Bible teaches us that there is life in death. It is understandable that we all experience extreme heartache, uncontrollable sadness, and a profound sense of loss, when someone we love passes. Those emotions are built into our DNA and are an expression of love. However, the pain and sorrow we feel when we face mortality has a happy ending. There will come a day when those of us who have repented, and who know Jesus Christ, will be welcomed into the heavenly Kingdom and have a seat at the table of our Lord and Savior.

 Our hearts that have gathered heavy with the weight of loss, we can find comfort in the embrace of God’s Word. Losing a loved one is an experience that pierces the soul, and in our shared pain, we turn to scripture to find healing and guidance on how to carry on in the memory of our dear departed.

 Psalm 34:18 reads, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” In our moments of grief, it is imperative that we understand God is close to us, especially when our hearts are shattered. Be comforted in recognizing that the Almighty holds us in His loving arms and offers solace to our wounded spirits. I always come back to Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven… a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” This passage speaks to the groove of life, confirming that mourning is a part of the experience. Let us trust in God’s timing and plan and find hope in the promise of a time for joy beyond the tears.

 In the face of loss, this scripture offers a vision of the comfort that awaits us in eternity. God’s promise to eradicate every tear reminds us that one day, all sorrow will cease to exist, and we will be reunited with our beloved ones in the heavenly realm. We see this in the book of Revelation 21:4, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

If you were to turn your Bible to the book of Philippians 4:6-7 you will find the following verse: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Amid pain, I pray we may find peace in prayer. Pour out our grief to God, thanking Him even in the depths of sorrow. In prayer, we discover a sanctuary where our burdens are lifted, and The Lord’s comforting presence is felt.

 The always powerful book of Romans, says in chapter 8 verses 38-39, “For I am sure that neither in death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ our Lord.” Even in the clutches of grief, hold fast to the truth that nothing can destroy the bond of love. This love becomes a guiding light, providing strength and stability as we learn to carry on.

 I pray, my dear brothers and sisters, that these Scriptures be a salve on your wounded hearts. As we embark on the harrowing journey of grief, may we lean on the promises and hopes of God for the assurance of the eternal reunion in his loving presence. May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ accompany you on this trail of healing and remembrance. Amen.

 

All You Need Is (to practice) Love

 

Love is a word we use every day. We say these four little words to our spouse, our parents, children, family, friends, about our food or entertainment, and our pets, – I would even go as far as to say that it is both our favorite adjective and adverb. But, what does love mean in a Biblical sense? We all know the commandment of loving our neighbor as ourselves, but what about those who’ve done us wrong? At its deepest center, love involves the genuine desire for the well-being of the “loved one”, and complete selflessness. It goes beyond emotional attachment and extends to actions that reflect kindness, understanding, and support. Love can be a source of joy, comfort, and connection, binding individuals together in meaningful relationships. I want to take a deeper look into Scripture and see what the living Word has to say about it.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reads, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.” In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus states the greatest commandments: “Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” How sweet are the Words from our Almighty?

My favorite passage about loving others comes from John 13:34-35. Where Jesus gives a new commandment to His disciples: “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”

While there a many passages in the Bible that talk about love, I like to imagine Romans 13:8-10 as a life manual, emphasizing the extraordinary power of love in our everyday experiences. I like to think of it as a GPS guiding us through the hills and valleys of relationships and decisions. The Apostle Paul isn’t shoving a rulebook in our faces; he’s handing us the key to harmonious living. When he says, “Owe no one anything except to love one another,” he’s highlighting the currency of love that transcends all debts and transactions.

Think about your friendships, family ties, and yes, even those ever so challenging co-workers; you know the ones who microwave leftover fish at lunch… Romans 13:8-10 encourages us to approach these connections with a mindset of love that goes above and beyond politeness. It is about actively seeking the well-being of others, being empathetic to their needs, and perhaps the hardest of all, being patient.

Practicing this in our daily lives means pausing before reacting in a heated moment. It may help to briefly step away to let emotions settle and utilize the art of deep breathing. It’s choosing kindness when faced with differences and offering a helping hand without expecting anything in return. These verses challenge us to be engineers of love, building relationships not just on rules but on genuine care.

What would the world look like if every decision, big or small, was filtered through the lens of love? Think, how can I approach this situation with love? From the way we handle conflicts and disputes, to the choices we make in our relationships, Romans 13:8-10 becomes the compass that guides us towards a neighborhood where love is the spoken language.

As you navigate the intricacies of life, my prayer for you is that you let love be your guiding light and principle, and watch as it revolutionizes your world, and the world around you. Amen.

Assemble With Angels or Dine With Demons

 My sweetest friends,

    I was thumbing through one of my bibles this evening, and decided to try and gain a little more knowledge from the 1st letter of Corinthians. I find that there is always something to learn, or to read with a new perspective, in the books of Corinthians. Then it hit me like a baseball to the shin, the profound words contained in 1 Corinthians 10:21-22 (as translated in the ESV version), “You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. Shall we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He?”  This scripture teaches us a lesson of discernment, and urges us to choose wisely between the table of the Lord and the table of demons. The verse is not a suggestion but a clarion call to a radical allegiance.

    As believers in the living Word, we are called to maintain a steadfast commitment to the Lord Jesus. Can you imagine being invited to a crowded banquet, and there’s only two tables with seating available. One represents divine purity where the table of the Lord calls us to commune in unyielding unity, righteousness, and love. It would be a table centered on God’s grace and guidance. In contrast to this is the ominous table of demons. The table is full of the flashy distractions of the world - materialism, envy, hatred, and every dark temptation with the devil himself serving as the waiter. The question then, is which table are you choosing to sit at?

    As we move through with everyday life, let us be mindful about marshaling our motions with the values of Christ. Let us nurture an enlightening spirit, recognizing the minutiae influences of the enemy that may lead us off our path with the Lord. By practicing mindfulness, we strengthen our relationship with God and make positive contributions to the unity and purity of our community. 1 Corinthians 10:21-22 reminds us that we are vigilant guardians of our faith, and His holy kingdom. It ensures that we align our choices with the love and grace of our Savior.

    It is my prayer that our souls long for a seat at the divine banquet, where the fellowship with the Trinity in One of God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit is the sweetest nectar, and the allure of the world fades in His radiant glory. Amen

Warm Thoughts, Cold Day

 My sweet family in Christ,

Today I woke up with no intention of writing, but I felt so thankful to be alive, that I just had to share my thoughts. Today in the Cincinnati area, where I live, it was a whopping 8 degrees Fahrenheit for the high. In other parts of the country, we are seeing tips dip into the negative 30’s! In Buffalo, NY, they had to reschedule a playoff game until Monday afternoon, and the Bill’s organization are encouraging fans not to show up to the game for safety concerns. I used to live in the mountains of Montana and Wyoming, so I know what it is like to be in subzero temperatures, and let me tell you, it loses its whimsical appeal real fast. 

Meanwhile, I arose in my warm bed, under warm blankets, in my warm townhome, took a warm shower, put on warm clothes, ate a warm breakfast, and took medication that helps relive the chronic pain I have due to a back injury I sustained. As I sit here typing, I am lounging in a recliner, using a laptop, with an electric fireplace keeping my feet toasty, passively watching a show on my 55” television; my daughter is playing with what seems like ALL OF THE TOYS, but is only a small fraction of what she has, and my wife is soaking in a warm bath for relaxation and leisure. 

When I break it down like that, it sure does put into perspective how truly blessed I am. I have all my basic needs met, and then some. Our refrigerator and pantry and full of food, and our two vehicles have full tanks of gas. I have a job that I enjoy doing, and while I don’t make as much money as I would like to in our current economy, between my wife and I, we can comfortably pay our rent. I have been learning to follow the lessons of Jesus, and to have an attitude of gratitude. This is something that I am actively working on, and with prayer, have been a lot more comfortable with what I have than what I don’t. Through prayer, I am hyper aware that there are a couple billion more people, that would say I’m living the dream. While I am not a homeowner, and live in a lower income apartment complex, there are people without a roof over their heads. Even though my van is fifteen years old and has high miles, there are others who only have their two feet to get around.

There are countless things in my life that I used to take for granted or didn’t think of at all before I took up praying. Prayer has opened my eyes, my mind, and my heart, to the blessings I have. Psalm 107:1 advises, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” In our journey through life, we often face challenges that test our faith. During those tests, let us not forget the countless moments of love, grace, and joy, that we’re consumed by every day. Mattie Beattie said, “Gratitude makes sense of the past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." 

Being grateful in the face of others’ adversity requires an extreme sense of empathy and a nuanced perspective. Appreciation does not diminish the mountains that others climb but rather welcomes us with gratitude for the positivity in our own lives. We must approach gratitude with compassion and a sensitive heart. I believe that we can use our appreciation for the blessings we have as motivation for support and kindness towards others experiencing difficulties, and see with eyes wide open, the mirrored experiences we have with each other.

My point in all of this is that sometimes our worst day would be the best day for someone else. If you have a roof over your head, shelter from the storms, food in your belly, and people who love you, then you’re already doing better than at least a billion of your fellow children of God. This isn’t to shame you for the life you live; God gives us all what we’re meant to have. It may not be what we want or when we want it, but His timing is perfect. He gave, and he gives us all signs that lead to our blessings. It is up to us to listen and see them.  I pray that we find strength in the challenges we face, have compassion in our interactions, and gratitude for the big and little moments of joy. May we be guided by understanding, wisdom, and kindness of the Holy Spirit, and may we see the path that hope illuminates. Amen.

The Joy Of Christmas

 

My beloved in Christ,

As we prepare to come together in this season of joy and celebration, let the divine echoes of Psalm 96:11 echo out and fill our hearts with the true spirit of Christmas. “Let the heavens rejoice, let the Earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it.” Amid twinkling lights and festive cheer, let us not forget the profound message of joy rooted deep in the Christmas story.

Imagine if you will, the heavens rejoicing with angelic choirs, the Earth adorned with the humble stable, and the seas resounding with the good news of our Savior’s birth. This Christmas, we are reminded that the source of our joy is the ultimate gift of Christ, born to bring salvation and eternal joy to the world.

In the face of life’s challenges, the Christmas story assures us that joy is not just a seasonal sentiment but a perpetual promise. The joy of the heavens, the gladness of the Earth, and the celebration of the seas find their meaning in the birth of the Lord of Hosts.

When we exchange presents and share in the warmth of loved ones, I call on you to be mindful that the greatest gift above all was found in a humble manger in Bethlehem. Today, let us not only be recipients of joy but also the ambassadors of it. Let the spirit fill our hearts and make us beacons of hope and love in a world longing for the transformative power of God’s eternal joy and grace in our lives.

Fill your hearts with gratitude, sing praises, and commemorate the goodness of the Lord. As we gather in worship, may our joy overflow, creating a symphony of thanksgiving beyond the containment of walls. Lift your spirits, for we are embraced by the boundless love of our creator God Almighty.

So, my dear brothers and sisters, let the happiness of Christmas celebrations be not just a fleeting emotion but a steadfast conviction, knowing that through Christ, our hearts can resound with joy in every season. Amen.

Marriage Makes Meaningful Moments

The sacred covenant of marriage stands as a profound and intricate thread weaving together a tapestry of shared joys, trials, and uncharted terrain of the human heart. Proverbs 17:9 says, “Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends.” This serves as a timeless compass, guiding us through the complexities of this journey with wisdom. As we embark on a deeper exploration of this verse in the context of marriage, we begin to unravel layers of its spiritual significance, delving deep into the intricacies of fostering love, the power of forgiveness, and the fragile dance of navigation offenses within matrimony.

Marriage is a sacred union ordained by the divine, like a blanket woven with threads of love, commitment, and shared dreams. However, this union is not immune to the challenges life likes to unfurl. It is in these challenges that the wisdom found in Proverbs 17:9 beckons us to a higher calling to foster love. This is no passive endeavor; it is an intentional, active commitment to nurture a love that exceeds the sometimes-transient nature of our offenses.

To adopt love in marriage is to mirror the divine love that covers our own transgressions. It is acknowledged that in our imperfection, we find grace. Covering our offenses involves a deliberate choice to extend the same grace to our partners. It’s an invitation to see beyond the surface and recognize the humanity in each other, choosing to love as the lens through which we view one another.

Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in marital relationships. The act of covering our offenses is intertwined with the fabric of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not a one-time event but a continuous, intentional practice. It is the decision to release the grip of resentment and embrace the healing balm of grace. The scripture reminds us that love and forgiveness are inseparable companions on the journey of marriage. To foster love is to forgive, and to forgive is to create a space for love to flourish.

Marriage reflects a divine mystery – the union between Christ and His Church. The biblical metaphor of Christ as the bridegroom and the Church as His bride resonates intensely in the context of marriage. The love that covers over offenses echoes the redemptive love of Christ, who covers our sins with His grace. As spouses, we are called to emulate this sacrificial love, covering each other with a love that transcends shortcomings and imperfections.

This expands beyond the immediate dynamics of a relationship. It has a ripple effect, influencing the broader community. A marriage built on love and forgiveness becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. It testifies to the enduring power of divine love, proving that, in covering our offenses, we contribute to the restoration of brokenness and healing of wounded hearts.

However, this passage of Proverbs also shows us a cautionary note. “Whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” In the era of rapid communication and social media, the temptation to share grievances publicly is ever-present. The verse encourages discretion, urging spouses to guard the sanctity of their shared experiences. Repeating offenses can sow seeds of discord, leading to a gradual separation of hearts. In the digital age, where words travel swiftly and leave a lasting impact, the wisdom of Proverbs reminds us to be mindful stewards of our words within the sacred space of marriage.

Offenses both big and small, are an inevitable part of any relationship. They test the strength of the marital bond and present opportunities for growth. Proverbs 17:9 invites us to approach these moments with a spirit of empathy and humility. It challenges us to rise above the urge to be right and instead choose the path of reconciliation.

Honest and open communication emerges as a key partner that creates a space for understanding, allowing spouses to express their feelings and perspectives. It is a dance of vulnerability, where both partners lay bare their hearts, creating an environment where transgressions can be addressed and resolved. Scripture encourages us to communicate with a spirit of love and to choose words that build up rather than tear down.

Furthermore, navigating offenses involves a commitment to personal growth. It requires a willingness to reflect on our own actions, acknowledge shortcomings, and strive for continuous improvement. As we cover offenses with love, we contribute to a culture of mutual growth and transformation within the marriage.

The spiritual reflection of the passage extends beyond the individual marriage to the broader context of the family unit. In covering over our actions, spouses model to their children the importance of grace, forgiveness, and love. Children in such an environment witness the beauty of a marriage grounded in faith, providing them with a strong foundation for their own future relationships.

Moreover, the wisdom found in this verse challenges societal norms regarding conflict resolution. In a world that glorifies confrontation and public humiliation, this verse offers an alternative approach rooted in love and discretion. It advocates for a counter-cultural perspective that prioritizes unity over division, grace over judgement, and reconciliation over separation.

Proverbs 17:9 serves us as a timeless guide for navigating the intricacies of modern marriage. It calls on couples to grow a love that transcends personal sins, to cover each other with grace and to engage in the dance of reconciliation. When woven into the fabric of marriage, it transforms them into a living testimony of heavenly love. As we embrace the wisdom imparted by Proverbs, may our marriages become sanctuaries of forgiveness, enduring grace, and most importantly a love that reflects the love of Christ for His Church.

Service Saves

 My cherished brothers and sisters,

Today I want to set sail on the adventurous waters the significance acts of service have – how they weave the fabric of our community, strengthen our bonds with loved ones, and extend a helping hand to those in need. I invite you to immerse yourself with me in the living, breathing word of God, seeking guidance and inspiration as we explore the practical aspects of daily service.

Let’s begin with Galatians 5:13. Where the apostle Paul implores, “You, my brothers, and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedoms to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” In our daily lives, this could mean choosing to lend a listening ear to a neighbor, extending a helping hand to someone burdened, or simply embodying humility in our interactions.

Consider Philippians 2:4, which encourages us to “look not only to your own interests but also the interests of others.” In daily living, our acts of service may manifest themselves in small, intentional gestures like a neighborly check-in, sharing a meal, or assisting with practical needs of those around us.

I like to reflect on 1 Peter 4:10 within the sanctuary of family life which reminds us, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Daily acts of service within our families might seem trite but are vital in keeping a strong foundation. Family acts of service within the family structure can include the gift of time – playing with children, supporting a loved one in their endeavors, or shouldering responsibilities collectively.

Ephesians 6:7 commands us to “serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” This implies that our services are not just a routine but a direct expression of our devotion to God. Serving wholeheartedly could mean we tackle tasks with kindness, enthusiasm, and a genuine hope to make a positive impact.

If we take a peek at what the profit Isaiah has to say in 58:10, he says, “If you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.” If we honor these words, then in our day to day lives, this could involve contributing to local food drives, volunteering at shelters, or advocating for justice on behalf of those without a voice.

Jesus encourages us in the Gospel of Matthew 5:16, “In the same way let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” I pray that we let our lights shine like a beacon that inspires others to join in and ultimately glorify God.

In closing, let us go on with an attitude of gratitude and remember that we’re all just walking each other home. May our acts of service be like a delicious soup mixed with ingredients consisting of love, compassion, and humility. Let us recognize the myriad of opportunities in our daily interactions to emulate Jesus Christ of Nazareth’s examples and be vessels of His grace. Through these small yet impactful acts, may our lives reflect the healing power of service and bring glory to the One who calls us to serve. Amen.

The Repenting Heart

 

My dear friends,

I ask you with the purest of intentions, when do we as a collective, proclaim aloud, and not just with words, but with our actions, that we believe? When do we turn from the snake that openly slithers among us, and return to the lamb? When do we stop allowing our world to be smothered by filth, and instead make a clear path for the return of the Messiah?

There are so many times when we treat our redeemer like a drunken booty call; where we are only Sunday Christians; where we only pray when terrible things happen, or when we have a desire that we want met. We often treat our Lord like a genie in a lamp who grants wishes, and then we get upset when our wishes are not fulfilled. Let me ask you a question: why would you get a 100% God if you only give 25% of your heart to Him?

The Almighty created all things visible and invisible. He created you, me, and everything in between. We need to stop the foolishness and lift our hearts to Him so that we are at least attempting to be worthy of eternal life in his grace and mercy.

Today’s reflection is on the enduring wisdom found in the book of repentance, Ecclesiastes. Its pages contain the journey of King Solomon, who, in his pursuit of meaning and purpose, experienced the highs and lows of life. Ecclesiastes teaches us about the futility of worldly pursuits and the importance of repentance.

Illuminated in Ecclesiastes is the turning away from the fleeting pleasures of this world, (alcohol, gambling, clubbing, sexual immoralities, drugs, etc.) and turning towards God. Solomon’s introspection reveals that true fulfillment is not found in wealth, success, or pleasure, but in a genuine connection with the Divine.

Take a moment to learn from Solomon’s acknowledgement of the limitations of human endeavors. Repentance begins with recognizing the emptiness of chasing after the wind and those pursuits that promise satisfaction but leaves us wanting. Ecclesiastes urges us to redirect our hearts towards God, seeking a meaningful relationship that transcends the temporal.

Even more so, repentance involves a change of perspective. Take me for an example. I used to chase the feeling of forgetting. The enemy spoke and I listened. The enemy told me I was not attractive enough, I was not attractive enough, or that I would never reach my goals, so why bother to try. I resorted to vices that some of you may indulge in as well. The excessive use of alcohol, a cocktail of pills, marijuana, tobacco, music that promoted violence and objectification of women, and pornography are just the tip of iceberg for the personal hell I was living in. I lost myself in a cloud of smoke and ran away from the Lord with a woman I had no business being involved with in the first place. I let the enemy shield me from the light, and lead me into the darkness, and I am not going to lie, it felt good, and it was fun, until it was not. The truth is that during the twenty plus years that I was dancing with the devil, I was flat out miserable. I had no idea who I really was, and I had put my body through a multitude of torture. I started developing health problems, and I hurt a lot of people along the way.

I rejected members of my family, cursed my friends to the point where we still do not speak to this day. I could not hold down a job because I always had the idea that there was something bigger that I would be missing. I burned every bridge I had the privilege to cross. I can be a real piece of shit sometimes.

The reason I shared part of my story is to show you that repentance works. I was cast into the light, I was lost, am now found – amazing grace indeed. If you have an open and honest conversation with Jesus, and you tell him that you are sorry, and more importantly, you ask him for forgiveness, His salvation will wash over you like a midnight rain.

Solomon, in his reflections, reminds us of life’s uncertainties and the inevitability of death. Repentance prompts us to prioritize eternal values over the transient. It calls us to reevaluate our priorities, investing in what truly matters – our relationship with God and our fellow human race.

In Ecclesiastes, we find solace in the message that Christ’s grace allows for transformation so powerful, it can turn sinners into saints. Repentance is not merely remorse; it is an acknowledgement of our shortcomings, coupled with a sincere desire to align our lives with God’s purpose.

I want to make it clear that through the wisdom of Ecclesiastes, we must embrace repentance as a continuous process. I pray that we learn from Solomon’s wisdom to turn away from the distractions of this world, and the tempting whisper of the serpent, and seek a deeper connection with our Creator. Through repentance, let our lives reflect the eternal joy that comes from living in harmony with God’s divine plan.

As always, I leave you with hope and peace in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

God bless,

Steve

Good Mourning - Matthew 5:4

 My dear friends,

Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Could there be a more humane verse in all the ancient texts? Jesus is telling us to cast our sorrows onto Him, and He will carry them for eternity. In my opinion, there is no worse feeling than that of mourning. I also think that there is not a more beautiful emotion than mourning, because to mourn, you must have loved deeply, and to love deeply is the very essence of living itself. In the gentle scribing of Matthew 5:4, we are invited to embrace the tender realms of our humanity. In this seemingly paradoxical proclamation lies a timeless truth that beats deep down through the corridors of our hearts.

Mourning is often viewed as the footprint of sorrow, however under our faith in the Father, it s elevated to a sacred space of blessedness. It is a call to remember the depth of our emotions, the authenticity of our vulnerabilities, and the interconnectedness of our shared experiences as children of God. For it is in mourning, that we track through the landscapes of loss, heartache, and disappointment – universal threads woven into the fabric of all existence.

But it is precisely in these moments of sorrow that the promise of comfort emerges like a beautiful sunrise after the darkest night. God’s holy assurance extends beyond the alleviation of grief; it vibrates in a subtle symphony of empathy and understanding. It is an invitation to admit that in our shared mourning, we discover a compassionate community ready to embrace and uplift. How do we integrate this good news into our day by day lives? We must first acknowledge our own grief, whether it be the loss of a loved one, our shattered dreams, or the collective sorrows of our world. It is in this revelation, we unveil the sacredness of our emotions, laying bare our vulnerabilities and weaknesses before the Holy Ghost.

Simultaneously, this allows us to extend a hand of empathy to those around us. Blessed are we when we become comfort-bearers, acknowledging the pain in others, and standing as beacons of solace. As it says so joyously in Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Compassion becomes the bridge that connects hearts and breaks down the isolating walls of individual grief.

 Matthew 5:4 guides us to understand that in mourning and comforting, we not only partake in the grandeur of our shared humanity but also become conduits of holy grace, weaving countless threads of healing and hope into the fabric of our lives. I want to end this letter with my hopes and prayers that we make a better effort to tell the ones we love the most, that we truly love them. We tend to take so many things, great and small, for granted, and often we end up putting people on the back burner of life. We say, “I can call them back tomorrow.” Or “I’ll visit (insert name) another day.”  But tomorrow isn’t assured. Life altering dynamics happen everyday and if you’ve been fortunate enough not to have anything happen yet, you better go buy the next Powerball and split your winnings with me, because you’ve been extremely lucky my friend. Amen.