“Once more I will shake not only the earth, but also the heavens. The words “once more” indicate the removing of what can be shaken – that is, created things – so that what cannot be shaken will remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. Keep on loving each other as brothers.” (Hebrews 12:26-13:1) It... Read more

Greg Austin is a friend and brother. I felt prompted to share this for a few reasons. The first reason is that it reminds us of our own mortality and how fragile this phase of life is, and it gives a story of faith, but beyond faith, a God that brings peace and unspeakable comfort that go beyond faith or any human comprehension. Secondly, I would ask some of you to pray for Greg as he goes through this. He... Read more

We distance ourselves from God when we think that we cannot know or do the things that Jesus knew and did. But God never puts distance between us, and Christ calls us friend, while teaching us of the Father. Jesus says, “In all truth I tell you, whoever believes in me will perform the same works as me, and even greater works.” The power of Christ in us and wants to bring His glory to earth through EACH and ALL... Read more

We distance ourselves from God when we think that we cannot know or do the things that Jesus knew and did. But God never puts distance between us, and Christ calls us friend, while teaching us of the Father. Jesus says, “In all truth I tell you, whoever believes in me will perform the same works as me, and even greater works.” The power of Christ in us and wants to bring His glory to earth through EACH and ALL... Read more

The Beatitudes offer a life that seems other worldly. Who can be truly gentle, merciful, pure in heart, and always concerned about justice? Loving our enemies, persecuted, what kind of life is that? We are in the world but we are of the Kingdom and of God’s presence. We will be comforted and will be filled, while mercy overflows. We will be known as God’s children and truly see God presently and in the life to come. Read more

 Jesus was persecuted, and promised His followers that persecution would also be their portion. Those who choose to live in God’s nature of humility, gentleness, compassion, and mercy, will often be opposed by the world. When we want to become like Christ, we cannot expect always to be liked and admired. We will be received by those searching for God’s authentic love, but we also must be prepared to face persecution. Read more

There is a difference between having pity and showing mercy. Mercy comes from a compassionate heart, and a desire to serve others as equals. Pity does not connect hearts and often becomes a looking downward towards a lesser being. Jesus didn’t look down on us. He became one of us to feel deeply with us. Jesus lived miraculously through mercy birthed in compassion. May we show mercy that is empowered by His love and compassion. Read more

Christ is a peacemaker. His peace doesn’t mean only absence of war. It is not simply harmony and an all-is-calm atmosphere. His peace brings the fullness of well-being, abundantly given by God. Jesus gives us a gift of peace that the world cannot give. Shalom – peace is the  well-being of body, soul, and spirit, individually and communally. It can exist in the midst of unresolved problems and increasing human conflicts. This is peace we can receive and peace we... Read more

Having a pure heart means a focused and willing heart for doing the will of our heavenly Father. Whatever we do or say, we attempt to do it as an obedient child. We know that He who sends us is ever with us, and we desire to do what pleases Him. We become whole and intentional through our complete unity with God. Becoming like Christ is growing into purity of heart that empowers a Kingdom clarity and vision. Read more

Sunday, July 18, 2010 Mercy Birthed in Compassion by Robert Ricciardelli There is a difference between having pity and showing mercy. Mercy comes from a compassionate heart, and a desire to serve others as equals. Pity does not connect hearts and often becomes a looking downward towards a lesser being. Jesus didn’t look down on us. He became one of us to feel deeply with us. Jesus lived miraculously through mercy birthed in compassion. May we show mercy that is... Read more