A Word to the Church

 

I decided it is time for me to reread the book of Revelation. Right off, God set me on a personal evaluation. 

Revelation 3:22 says,

    "Anyone who is willing to hear should listen to the Spirit and understand what the Spirit is saying to the churches."

This is the last line of the first four chapters in the book of Revelation. It is repeated seven times in those four chapters. Clearly it is important. 

What does the church need to hear? And who is the church?

In each of the seven churches John addresses their strengths and their weaknesses. He gives only one answer to correct their course - listen to the Spirit. 

If we look at the church in these challenging days, it seems clear that many have lost their way. Too many focus on things like appearance, number of attendees, money and building projects, and even trying overly hard not to ruffle feathers. There are additional sins, some too horrible to mention here, though they may soon come to light.

I am no better than any other. I am a sinner, found by my Lord and lifted up out of a pit of despair. He set me on solid ground. I am forever grateful for His mercy toward me. 

God wishes that none, no not one, would be lost. He extends the gift of eternal life to all. But the choice to grasp his outstretched hand is ours to make. When we accept His gift, we become His children. That is so amazing! It is a miracle.

As children of God, we are part of the church. When we first stepped into the new us we were overjoyed and excited to learn all we could. But, as in the Church of Ephesus, over time some became distracted and lost their first love. What a great personal loss and a loss to the world, that looks to the church for direction, encouragement, hope and love. 

Even if we have been distracted or disheartened, we are not lost. The Lord will renew His Spirit within us and then we, the church, can do much to reveal light to the world. We can't conjure up the light - truth is light. We need to know the truth and let it rule in our hearts. And then as it says in Matthew 5:15, "No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket." 

Shine brightly. Be good to yourself. Take time for renewal. Read God's Word and be quiet before Him.

Close your eyes. Quiet your breath. Open your heart. Whisper His name - Jesus. Listen. 

He will speak. He is in you. 

Remember ... we are the church.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Light of the World

 I don't like darkness.

I'm not speaking about the shadows that lie between hillsides or beneath the broad limbs of trees. Nor the darkness of a night sky that is brightened by shimmering stars or yellow slice of moon. Or the dark green depths of our local river. No, I'm speaking about darkness of the soul and spirit, where God does not dwell.

I once lived in that dark place. I met each day with fear, without hope. I wondered where the day would lead and moved through it with trepidation.

This morning I settled in my large leather chair and opened my Bible, hungry for the Lord, longing for His presence, His wisdom and love. My eyes moved through scripture and fell upon John 8:12. "Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, 'I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will  have the light that leads to life.'"

I remembered the darkness where I once lived and tears gathered in the corners of my eyes. I no longer live in that place for the light of Christ dwells in me.

Does that mean I am never afraid? Do I live without sorrows? No. I live in this world. But when I'm afraid or feel a situation is hopeless I know it is only for a time. I am loved by the Lord God. He will never forsake me. His light shines brightly from within and above and below, showing me the way. His hand reaches for mine and He holds me secure and promises there will be a day when there will be no darkness.

Reach for His hand--accept the light of truth and step into a future filled with love, hope and light.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie