Sunday, September 15, 2019

The Olive Branch

God is Love

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

We all get into disagreements, but what happens when a grievance gets out of hand and forgiveness is required before the relationship can be restored? Who goes first? And will any gesture extended be accepted and reciprocated? Those are really tough questions – and part of the answer depends on how much the relationship is valued.

God created us to be in relationship with Him, but we often do not have the time or a desire to know God intimately. We think we can handle things on our own until something happens outside of our control. But, because of God’s unconditional love for us, He stands with arms open wide; ready to receive us at any time, in any way. By simply placing our trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior, our relationship with our Heavenly Father is restored in an instant. And through that same gift of grace, we too can forgive one another.

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Colossians 1:19-20

Because God is love, through Jesus our broken relationships are restored.

Sunday, September 1, 2019

Satisfaction Guaranteed

God is Eternal

“Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” Ecclesiastes 1:2

Are you still searching for that something that will finally bring you permanent happiness? You may find a temporary contentment or satisfaction based on your current circumstance; however it does not last -- it wasn’t designed to. There is no peace without Jesus. “Stop chasing the wind” as Solomon said, “for it is all meaningless”. Free yourself from the pursuit of approval, money, and power. True joy comes from the Holy Spirit. St. Augustine said, “The heart will not rest until it rests in Christ.” Ask Christ into your life and he will give you a perfect, everlasting peace.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5: 22-23

Because God is eternal, we can be complete.