The Christmas season reminds us of God’s immense love through the gift of His Son, emphasizing hope, peace, and salvation. While celebrating, we should remember Jesus’ mission as expressed in the New Testament, which includes fulfilling the law, serving others, and offering abundant life, inviting us to embrace His purpose fully.
Category Archives: salvation
What God Wants for Christmas – A Personal Reflection
I just heard this song for the first time on the radio this morning and it really got me to think……..What God Wants for Christmas by Darius Rucker. As I listened to Darius Rucker’s song “What God Wants for Christmas,” I found myself pausing in the middle of the holiday rush. The lyrics remind meContinue reading “What God Wants for Christmas – A Personal Reflection”
Malachi: Returning Wholeheartedly to God
Malachi, the last Minor Prophet, challenges Israel to offer wholehearted devotion rather than empty rituals. He calls for continual repentance and emphasizes that withholding from God is akin to robbery. Malachi highlights God’s refining process as purifying love, urging believers to return to sincere worship and live generously, preparing for greater things ahead.
Habakkuk: Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty
The reflections on Habakkuk highlight a journey of faith characterized by questioning, honesty, and reliance on God amid injustice and suffering. It emphasizes that faith welcomes doubts, acknowledges God’s sovereignty, and actively chooses joy in challenging times. Ultimately, it teaches that true faith involves trusting God despite uncertainties.
Micah: Walking Humbly with God
Micah’s message strikes a powerful chord, emphasizing justice, mercy, and humility as essential elements of faith. He confronts hypocrisy and injustice, urging believers to reflect their faith through action. Micah also offers hope for redemption through Christ, reminding that true worship transcends ritual and must be embodied in daily life.
Hosea: Discovering God’s Relentless Love
Hosea’s story serves as a profound reminder of God’s relentless love and mercy. His marriage to Gomer symbolizes Israel’s unfaithfulness, yet God’s call to return remains constant. Through Hosea, we learn that repentance leads to healing, genuine faith prioritizes relationship over ritual, and God’s love is unwavering, regardless of our failures.
Lessons from the Minor Prophets: A Personal Journey
The Minor Prophets, often overlooked, offer profound insights about God’s nature. Through Hosea, we learn of His unwavering love; Jonah emphasizes obedience and compassion; Micah highlights justice and humility; Habakkuk shows faith amid uncertainty; Malachi calls for wholehearted devotion. These teachings remain relevant today, shaping personal faith journeys.
Enduring Belief: The Japanese Soldier and Biblical Faith
The Soldier Who Never Surrendered In 1972, the world was astonished when Hiroo Onoda, a Japanese intelligence officer, was found in the Philippine jungle still convinced that World War II had not ended. For nearly three decades, he lived in hiding, carrying out orders, and resisting surrender. His loyalty was absolute, even though the warContinue reading “Enduring Belief: The Japanese Soldier and Biblical Faith”
The Real History of Christmas (How an Ancient Christian Holy Day Became the Holiday We Know Today)
Christmas, celebrated on December 25, evolved over nearly 2,000 years. Initially, early Christians did not commemorate Christ’s birth. The first documented celebration occurred in 336 AD, influenced by pagan traditions. Over the centuries, customs shifted, and by the 19th century, Christmas transformed into a commercialized holiday. Today, it’s a global celebration with enduring significance.
The Silver Tsunami Is Here: Why So Many Seasoned Pastors Are Stepping Down (and What the Church Must Do Next)
The article highlights the aging trend among Protestant pastors, with the median age now at 60. While many are retiring, a significant number continue to serve in various capacities. The real challenge lies in recruiting younger leaders, as seminary enrollment declines and succession plans are lacking. Creative transitions and mentorship are essential for future church leadership.
Grow Stronger Roots 