Blog

<figure id="figure-6b6moi6pfgm27b4kkt" class=""><img id="6b6moi6pfgm27b4kkt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/131r4dzECptPc3SR4i1j8nYWkiM3oHVVPJN2xTposn2lXAPBm16NMumjfRwbNlfY.jpg" alt="women and man talking outside the building" title="women and man talking outside the building" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/131r4dzECptPc3SR4i1j8nYWkiM3oHVVPJN2xTposn2lXAPBm16NMumjfRwbNlfY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader –&nbsp;I had the strangest dream last night. I was wandering through this massive, ethereal city - all gleaming walls and shimmering streets. But here's the weird part: the city was alive. Not in a creepy way, but... it felt like it had a heartbeat, a soul.As I explored, I kept hearing whispers. They were saying something about a bride and a lamb. At first, I thought I'd stumbled into some bizarre wedding, but then it hit me - this was straight out of Revelation!The city wasn't just a place; it was a person. Or maybe... a people? It's hard to explain, but it felt like every building, every street was made up of countless individuals, all merged into this one magnificent being.And then, out of nowhere, this brilliant light appeared. It was too bright to look at directly, but I knew, somehow, that this was Christ. The whole city seemed to lean towards him, like a flower turning to the sun.I woke up with my head spinning, filled with all these jumbled thoughts about God and humanity, individuality and unity. It's left me wondering - what if our relationship with the divine is more intimate, more transformative than we ever imagined?This dream has stirred up so many questions. I can't help but see echoes of it in bits of Scripture I've read before. That verse in Ephesians about the church being Christ's body - it hits different now.I don't know what to make of all this, but I can't shake the feeling that there's something profound hiding just beneath the surface of these strange dream images. Maybe I need to dive back into some of those more mystical parts of the Bible, see if I can unravel this cosmic love story my subconscious has conjured up.One thing's for sure - I'll never look at a city skyline the same way again.Until next timeChaplain Mark

A Cosmic Romance: When 'I Do' Means 'We Are One

<figure id="figure-6wbn3625ccm25tmvcn" class=""><img id="6wbn3625ccm25tmvcn" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1572742850837-6fbb4175e562?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8Q291bnNlbGxpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA3MjU3ODg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="holding hand couple" title="holding hand couple" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 5%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="5%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1572742850837-6fbb4175e562?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyN3x8Q291bnNlbGxpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA3MjU3ODg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 5%;"></figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Divine Footsteps and FumblesDear reader,This morning I found myself reflecting on what it truly means to "walk in Christ." I've been reading Colossians and Galatians lately, and two verses keep resonating in my mind:"As you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him" (Col. 2:6) "Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" (Gal. 5:16)These words challenge me. What does it look like to actually walk in Christ in my day-to-day life? It's not just about belief, but about allowing Him to shape every aspect of my existence.I've been trying to imagine Christ as a sort of "spiritual landscape" I'm meant to explore and live in. It reminds me of those stories of the Israelites entering the Promised Land, discovering its richness. Am I truly experiencing the abundance of life in Christ?This morning, my prayer was, "Lord, help me to genuinely live and move within You. I want every part of my day, even the mundane moments, to be rooted in Your presence."I realize I've received Christ, but am I really applying that gift to my life? It's a constant challenge. I catch myself relying on my own strength so often, even when I know better. Why is it so hard to consciously choose Christ over my default settings?I wonder if others struggle with this too. It's not about receiving Christ again, but about actively involving Him in the nitty-gritty of life. I want to get better at this, to make it as natural as breathing.Tonight, I'm setting an intention: Tomorrow, I'll try to pause throughout the day and consciously invite Christ into whatever I'm doing. It's a small step, but maybe it's the beginning of truly learning to walk in Him.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Divine Footsteps and Fumbles

<figure id="figure-esunrfxmcm24gyi5n"><img id="esunrfxmcm24gyi5n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/del7ATjqykuoIEkTDTyebMWAfVmW3Q9pnA0uGLYIzMwU1rDKAuZ4IHRtD5nyWxGB.jpg" alt="two men sitting and one man standing near cliff taken during golden hour" title="two men sitting and one man standing near cliff taken during golden hour" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/del7ATjqykuoIEkTDTyebMWAfVmW3Q9pnA0uGLYIzMwU1rDKAuZ4IHRtD5nyWxGB.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader –&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;This week has been one that reminds me why I chose this path of ministry. It was exhausting, challenging, but ultimately deeply fulfilling. As I reflect on Colossians 1:24, I'm struck by how it played out in my interactions.I met a new friend for coffee at a local coffee shop. He's been struggling with questions about faith, particularly about salvation. We dove deep into discussing what Christ accomplished on the cross. I could see the wheels turning in his mind as we talked about grace, redemption, and the profound love God has for us. It wasn't an easy conversation - Tom had some tough questions - but there was a moment when I saw a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. That's when I felt it - that joy Paul talks about, even in the midst of the mental and emotional exertion of trying to explain complex theological concepts.yesterday: Had a difficult meeting with the Johnsons about their son, Mike. They're worried about his mental health, and honestly, so am I. I found myself in the delicate position of offering spiritual counseling while also recognizing the limits of my expertise. We talked about the power of faith and prayer in healing, but I also emphasized the importance of professional help. It's a fine line to walk - providing hope through faith while not dismissing the very real need for medical intervention. As we prayed together, I was reminded of the "afflictions" Paul mentions - not physical persecution, but the heart-wrenching empathy of carrying others' burdens. Yet, there was also a sense of filling what was lacking - being there for this family when they needed support the most.Evening: Just as I was about to sit down for dinner, Mrs. Davis from next door called. She was asking for help with deciding on life insurance, and being a widow with no family nearby, she often turns to me for help. As I sat with her, going over policy details and trying to explain the complexities of insurance, I realized how much trust she was placing in me. It wasn't just about the insurance; it was about having someone to turn to in moments of uncertainty.It struck me then - this is what it means to be the Body of Christ, the church. It's not just about Sunday sermons or Bible studies. It's about being present in the messy, everyday moments of life. It's about discussing deep theological truths over coffee and helping with practical life decisions. It's about sitting with parents as they worry about their child and providing guidance on financial matters to those who feel alone.Each of these interactions came with its own form of "suffering" - the mental strain of theological discussions, the emotional toll of counseling, the challenge of navigating complex decisions. But each also brought its own joy. I saw it in Tom's thoughtful nod as we wrapped up our conversation, in the grateful tears of the Johnsons as we prayed, in Mrs. Davis's relieved smile as we finished our discussion.As I finally sit down to reflect on the day, I'm tired. My mind is weary from the heavy conversations and complex problem-solving. But I also feel incredibly fulfilled. This, I realize, is what Paul meant. The joy doesn't come despite the suffering, but often through it. We fill up what is lacking not by doing grand, heroic deeds, but by simply being present, being willing to serve in whatever way is needed.Today will bring new challenges, new opportunities to serve. There will be more coffee shop conversations, more counseling sessions, more unexpected calls for help. And in each of these, there will be a chance to embody Christ's love, to be His hands and feet in a world that so desperately needs it.As I sit here and drink my morning coffee, I'm grateful. Grateful for the trust people place in me, for the opportunity to serve in ways both big and small. And I'm reminded that this work of building the church, of being the Body of Christ, is ongoing. It happens in moments of profound spiritual discussion and in moments of practical guidance. All of it matters. All of it is holy work.In this tapestry of daily life and ministry, I see the beautiful complexity of what it means to rejoice in our sufferings for the sake of the church. It's not always easy, but it is always, always worth it.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Rejoicing in the Trenches: Coffee Shops, Counseling, and Coverage Concerns

<figure id="figure-y9542uf5eam231v5gp" class="selected"><img id="y9542uf5eam231v5gp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fdiMllJAAH2KPsRZi2ZLgFRLrofAARneZjYaSHVPx9AhSR2QhJOTjBigKixgmFt.jpg" alt="men touching each other's foreheads" title="men touching each other's foreheads" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fdiMllJAAH2KPsRZi2ZLgFRLrofAARneZjYaSHVPx9AhSR2QhJOTjBigKixgmFt.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear readerThe divine law embodies purity, righteousness, and benevolence. It exists beyond our physical selves, setting a standard that fallen humanity struggles to meet. This celestial law serves to reveal our shortcomings.While God's law remains external, setting expectations for us, there exists within our psyche an innate sense of morality. This internal moral compass aligns with divine law, striving to meet its demands. For instance, when divine law commands, "Revere your elders," our inner moral voice eagerly affirms, "Yes! I shall honor my parents."However, our physical being harbors a third force: the law of sin. This sinful nature constantly battles against our moral inclinations. It resides in our mortal flesh, ever-ready to sabotage our virtuous intentions.Whenever our inner morality attempts to fulfill divine commandments, this sinful nature awakens. If our moral self were to remain passive, perhaps this darker impulse would lie dormant. But the moment our conscience stirs to action, the sinful nature rises in opposition, inevitably ensnaring us in its grasp.This isn't mere theory; it's the lived experience of humanity. We find ourselves caught in an ongoing struggle between our higher aspirations and baser instincts, a battle that defines the human condition.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Three way tug of war

<figure id="figure-xmi0qpqkuvm21lmqq3" class=""><img id="xmi0qpqkuvm21lmqq3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6B17yHwPJTnRDEUuL7rzI16WQZvrWO6QVBIGRlF2I2oaA3h18v7ri1Xy7gUlHHSa.jpg" alt="man sitting on chair covering his eyes" title="man sitting on chair covering his eyes" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6B17yHwPJTnRDEUuL7rzI16WQZvrWO6QVBIGRlF2I2oaA3h18v7ri1Xy7gUlHHSa.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader,Today, I found myself pondering the nature of faith and testimony. It all started when I stumbled upon two Bible verses that really struck a chord with me:"For you will be His messenger, telling everyone about what you have seen and heard." - Acts 22:15"Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent His Son to be the Savior of the world." - 1 John 4:14These words got me thinking about my own faith journey and the responsibility that comes with it. I had this vivid image come to mind: a dark, vast forest, and me standing there with a brightly burning torch. It was like that torch represented everything I've experienced in my relationship with God - all the moments of clarity, the times I felt His presence, the ways He's changed me.But then I realized, it's not enough to just stand there holding my torch. What good is light if it doesn't spread? I started imagining what would happen if I used my flame to light other torches in that forest. The darkness would retreat even further, and suddenly, paths that were hidden before would become visible to everyone.It made me think about the early Christians, especially someone like Paul. His testimony wasn't based on hearsay or abstract theology. He spoke about what he saw on that road to Damascus, what he heard when God spoke to him. It was real, raw, and powerful because it was his story.I've been guilty sometimes of keeping my faith journey to myself. Maybe out of fear of judgment, or thinking my experiences aren't "spectacular" enough. But today, I'm challenging myself to be braver. My encounters with God - finding peace, experiencing forgiveness, witnessing small miracles in my life - these are all flames that could light someone else's torch.It's a bit daunting, but also exciting to think that by sharing my story, I'm part of this unbroken chain that stretches back to Jesus himself. My little light, joining with others, pushing back darkness and doubt.So, here's my commitment, dear journal: I'm going to look for opportunities to share my faith journey more openly. Not to preach or convert, but simply to offer my flame to others who might be searching in the dark. Who knows? Maybe my small light will help ignite a blaze that continues long after I'm gone.Time to be a torchbearer.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Confessions of a Reluctant Firefly

<figure id="figure-0wlnxjp4xrm2052hss" class=""><img id="0wlnxjp4xrm2052hss" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fnWXD1IXh4D7gEbBzhQLJA5I68wtTJxmzWOrsLSiSslD4aIBpsbYrLkEWIaodf0.jpg" alt="person holding black ceramic mug" title="person holding black ceramic mug" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fnWXD1IXh4D7gEbBzhQLJA5I68wtTJxmzWOrsLSiSslD4aIBpsbYrLkEWIaodf0.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader: Today, something clicked. I mean, really clicked. I've been struggling with my faith for so long, feeling like I was suffocating under the weight of expectations and rules. It was like being stuck in a loveless marriage, you know? Always trying to measure up, always falling short.But today... oh man, today was different. It hit me like a ton of bricks - I'm free. Actually, truly free. It's like that old "marriage" to rules and regulations? It's over. Dead and buried. And now? Now I'm in this incredible new relationship with Christ, and it's turning everything upside down in the best way possible.I used to wake up every morning with this mental checklist. Don't do this, make sure you do that. Pray enough, read enough, be "good" enough. It was exhausting, and I never felt like I was measuring up. But now? I woke up this morning and just felt... peace. Like, for the first time, I could breathe.It's hard to put into words, but it's like the old me - the one always striving and never succeeding - that version of me is gone. In its place is this new person who's learning to live in grace. The rules that used to hang over my head like a cloud? They were for that old me, and that me doesn't exist anymore.Instead, I'm in this wild, beautiful new relationship with Christ. It's so personal, so real. I caught myself talking to Him while I was doing the dishes today, just casually chatting like I would with a friend. No formality, no fear - just... connection. It's changing how I see everything.The craziest part? I'm starting to notice changes in myself that I've been trying to force for years. Today, I found myself being patient in traffic (miracle of miracles!). I felt this surge of compassion for the neighbor I usually avoid. It's like the fruits of the Spirit they always talked about in church are actually growing, and I'm not even trying to make it happen.I'm excited, journal. For the first time in... well, maybe ever, I'm excited about my faith journey. It's not about ticking boxes or earning gold stars anymore. It's about this incredible, intimate journey with Christ. I feel like I'm finally living the life I was meant to live all along.Who knows what tomorrow will bring, but for today, I'm basking in this newfound freedom. It's like I've been let out of a cage I didn't even know I was in. Here's to new beginnings and real, transformative faith.Until next time,&nbsp;Chaplain Mark

Holy Makeover!

Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling

Welcome to Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling
Our Ministry
Located in Sparta, Michigan, Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling stands as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual renewal and personal transformation. Our ministry is built on the foundation of faith-based guidance, offering a haven where individuals can freely explore their relationship with God while addressing life's challenges.

We believe that true healing and growth happen when spiritual wisdom meets professional counseling. Through our Christ-centered approach, we help clients:

Discover deeper meaning in their faith journey
Build stronger relationships
Navigate life's challenges with Biblical wisdom
Foster emotional and spiritual well-being
Find practical solutions to personal struggles
Meet Chaplain Mark

As the founder of Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling, Chaplain Mark brings both professional expertise and heartfelt dedication to his role as your Community Chaplain. With a Master's degree in Christian counseling, he combines academic knowledge with genuine compassion to provide comprehensive spiritual support.

His Approach
Chaplain Mark's counseling style is rooted in:

Compassionate listening
Biblical wisdom
Professional expertise
Practical guidance
Spiritual encouragement
He specializes in helping individuals through:

Relationship challenges
Anxiety and depression
Faith exploration and growth
Personal development
Life transitions
His Mission
Chaplain Mark is dedicated to creating a welcoming space where you can:

Share your struggles without judgment
Explore your faith journey openly
Receive professional guidance
Develop practical coping tools
Strengthen your relationship with God
Discover your divine purpose
Our Promise to You
At Diggin-deeper, we understand that seeking counseling is a significant step. We promise to provide:

A safe, confidential environment
Christ-centered guidance
Professional expertise
Practical solutions
Ongoing support
Genuine compassion
Your journey toward healing and wholeness begins here. Let us walk alongside you as you discover God's purpose for your life and experience the transformative power of faith-based counseling.

 
Located in Sparta, Michigan, Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling welcomes all who seek spiritual guidance and personal growth through Christ-centered counseling.

Contact us today to begin your journey toward spiritual and emotional well-being.

Daily Grace Notes

A Cosmic Romance: When 'I Do' Means 'We Are One

Divine Footsteps and Fumbles

Rejoicing in the Trenches: Coffee Shops, Counseling, and ...

Three way tug of war

Confessions of a Reluctant Firefly

Holy Makeover!