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<figure id="figure-13jkqiz7d9m1rqrypx" class=""><img id="13jkqiz7d9m1rqrypx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/354ohRfN6Vl5ZCIvXZiALetgHFUE72YmbNynqFSY8GsyVdVjwmfjENWP1xke8pxX.jpg" alt="person catching light bulb" title="person catching light bulb" 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/354ohRfN6Vl5ZCIvXZiALetgHFUE72YmbNynqFSY8GsyVdVjwmfjENWP1xke8pxX.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader,&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;As I sit here reflecting on my life's journey, I'm struck by the profound changes I've undergone. There was a time when I was deeply involved in activities that I now recognize as harmful - both to myself and others. I held a position of influence within an organization that I now understand was destructive. The power I once relished came at a terrible cost.Last night, my sleep was disturbed by dreams - vivid reminders of a past I'm trying to leave behind. These memories are painful, but they serve as a stark reminder of how far I've come and how much further I still need to go.The story of Jesus' crucifixion, as recounted in Luke 23:26-49, has taken on new meaning for me lately. The account of his suffering - first at the hands of men, then bearing the judgment of God - resonates in unexpected ways. I find myself drawing parallels between the darkness that fell over Golgotha and the darkness that once enveloped my own life.But just as that darkness lifted, revealing a new dawn, I too have experienced a kind of resurrection. The forgiveness I've found, though undeserved, has been transformative. It's as if the weight of my past has been lifted, allowing me to see a new path forward.I'm particularly moved by the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-8. Like him, I've been given a chance at a new life. Zacchaeus, once a chief tax collector who had gained wealth through dishonest means, encountered Jesus and was immediately transformed. He pledged to give half his possessions to the poor and to repay fourfold anyone he had cheated. His story gives me hope that radical change is possible, no matter one's past.I'm committed now to using my experiences as a force for good. Where I once spread darkness, I want to bring light. Where I caused pain, I want to offer healing. It's a daunting task, and there are days when I wonder if true redemption is possible for someone with my history.But then I remember the criminals crucified alongside Jesus - one mocking, one repentant. And I'm reminded that it's never too late for a change of heart. My past doesn't have to dictate my future.As I move forward, I'm focusing on personal growth, seeking wisdom from those who have walked similar paths of transformation. I'm learning to replace old, destructive habits with new ones rooted in compassion and understanding.There's still a long road ahead. Some days are harder than others. But I'm committed to this journey of change, hoping that my story might someday inspire others who are struggling to break free from their own darkness.Today, I choose to focus on hope, on the possibility of redemption, and on the power of love to overcome even the deepest shadows of our past.Until next timeChaplain Mark

From Sinner to Winner: A Tax Collector's Playbook

<figure id="figure-h2jp5g7mjm1rqnesu" class=""><img id="h2jp5g7mjm1rqnesu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/63FARUBrpdvef6PetV7ofsWE55IqijR7qTrHnUo7n2xJ4tXDTkPPq8c9DBh2GsaX.jpg" alt="man and woman holding each others hands" title="man and woman holding each others hands" 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/63FARUBrpdvef6PetV7ofsWE55IqijR7qTrHnUo7n2xJ4tXDTkPPq8c9DBh2GsaX.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,It's been one of those days that makes you sit back and marvel at the mysteries of life and faith. As I write this, the house is quiet, and I can't help but reflect on the incredible ways I've seen the Divine at work lately.Remember how we used to think about spirituality in such simple terms? It was all about going to services, saying the right words, doing the right things. But lately, I've been experiencing something so much deeper, so much more profound. It's like there are two different yet interconnected ways that the Divine touches our lives.First, there's this inner presence. It's hard to describe, but it's like a warm light inside, a constant companion that brings peace even in the storm. I felt it so strongly when I got that call about Dad's health scare when all the stuff started with him. In those moments of panic and uncertainty, there was this calm center within me that I can only attribute to something greater than myself.But then there's also this external force, this power that seems to come upon us in moments of need. It reminded me of what happened at the community center a few years ago back home. We were organizing a fundraiser for the Johnson family? Everything was going wrong - the caterer cancelled, half the volunteers got sick, and the venue had double-booked us. I was ready to throw in the towel.And then, it was like a switch flipped. Suddenly, I had this surge of energy and clarity. Ideas were flowing, problems were solving themselves, and I was speaking with a confidence I didn't know I had. People later told me that my words inspired them to pitch in and make it all happen. In that moment, I felt like I was tapping into something beyond myself, a strength that wasn't my own.It's fascinating, isn't it? This interplay between the inner essence and the external empowerment. I've been thinking a lot about how these two aspects work together in our spiritual journey.The inner presence seems to be about transformation - slowly changing us from the inside out. It's in the quiet moments, the small choices, the gradual shift in perspective. Like how I've found myself becoming more patient with the kids, or how I'm learning to find joy in the mundane tasks of everyday life.And then there's the empowering force that seems to come upon us when we need it most. It's not always dramatic, but it's unmistakable. It's in those moments when we surprise ourselves with our own courage or wisdom. Like when I finally stood up to that bully at work, or when I found the right words to comfort Sarah after her breakup.I wonder how many times we miss these moments? How often do we attribute them to coincidence or our own abilities, rather than recognizing them as sacred encounters?As I look ahead to the coming weeks, with all their challenges and opportunities, I feel a sense of anticipation. What new facets of this divine presence will I discover? How will I be changed? How will I be empowered to impact others?I guess what I'm trying to say, dear reader, is that we're on an incredible journey. Our task isn't just to go through the motions of life, but to be aware, to be open to these two beautiful ways the Divine moves in and through us.So here's to tomorrow, and all the days after. Let's approach them with open eyes and an open heart. Let's nurture that inner flame and be ready for those moments when we're called to be more than we thought we could be.Until next time, Chaplain Mark

Divine Double-Dipping

<figure id="figure-omsqrcf72m1rqkv0b"><img id="omsqrcf72m1rqkv0b" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/71Y88FuZrJ94h9ruY7BlshU0Y34Ji0PsmD2KTC6X4HBgg2Ydm82KFByKZIx2xxR9.jpg" alt="two person's arms" title="two person's arms" 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/71Y88FuZrJ94h9ruY7BlshU0Y34Ji0PsmD2KTC6X4HBgg2Ydm82KFByKZIx2xxR9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader&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; &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; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Today, I found myself pondering the deep concepts of reconciliation and atonement. It struck me how these ideas apply not just in our everyday relationships, but also in our spiritual lives.I realized that reconciliation always involves two parties - one who's done wrong and another who's been wronged. The offender has to make things right, to meet the demands of the one they've hurt. It made me think about times when I've hurt someone or owed them something. There's always this tension, this unresolved issue between us until I step up and address it.The word "atonement" really caught my attention. I never noticed before how it can be broken down into "at-one-ment". It's all about bringing two separated parties back together, making them "at one" again. It's a beautiful concept when you think about it.In my spiritual life, I've often felt this separation from God. I've always been taught that my sins create this divide, keeping me from having a close relationship with Him. It's like there's this barrier that I can't break through on my own.That's where Jesus comes in, according to my faith. His sacrifice on the cross is supposed to be this ultimate act of reconciliation. It's mind-boggling to think about - that his death could bridge this massive gap between humanity and God. The idea that this one act could satisfy God's justice and restore our relationship with Him is powerful stuff.I'm not sure I fully grasp it all, but I find comfort in the idea that even when I mess up, there's a way back to harmony with God. It's like no matter how far I stray, there's always a path to reconciliation, to becoming "at one" with Him again.These thoughts have given me a lot to reflect on, especially about my own relationships. How can I apply these principles of reconciliation in my daily life? How can I be more proactive in mending rifts and restoring harmony with others? It's definitely something I want to work on moving forward.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Reflections on Reconciliation and Atonement

<figure id="figure-9nrjjxv5vfm1rq5dgk"><img id="9nrjjxv5vfm1rq5dgk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d2fA30mqeARXlFJXiDAtmgRtHKmGfm0D7qO7NHApEb9jcnPD9OARO9y28gwkaoHS.jpg" alt="people laughing and talking outside during daytime" title="people laughing and talking outside during daytime" 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/d2fA30mqeARXlFJXiDAtmgRtHKmGfm0D7qO7NHApEb9jcnPD9OARO9y28gwkaoHS.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,Today I've been diving deep into Romans 4:17, and I can't stop thinking about Abraham's incredible faith. The verse talks about "the God who calls things not being as being," and it's really challenging my understanding of who God is and what He's capable of.Let me break it down a bit. This verse is saying that the God Abraham believed in could speak things into existence that didn't even exist yet. It's mind-blowing when you really think about it. We're not talking about God rearranging existing matter or working within the laws of nature as we understand them. No, this is about God creating something out of absolutely nothing.I found myself imagining Abraham's situation. Here he was, well past the age when having children was possible, and God promises him a son. It wasn't just unlikely - it was impossible by human standards. Yet God looked at Abraham and Sarah's barren situation and essentially said, "Let there be Isaac!" And against all odds, Isaac came into being.This concept of calling things that are not as though they were is really hitting me hard today. How often do I look at situations in my life and declare them hopeless? How many times have I given up on dreams or promises because they seemed impossible? Abraham's story is challenging me to see things differently.I'm also struck by the second part of the verse, which describes God as the one "who gives life to the dead." This isn't just about physical death, I think. It's about all the "dead" situations in our lives - failed relationships, lost opportunities, unfulfilled dreams. God has the power to breathe life into all of these.The story gets even more intense when you consider what happened later with Isaac. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son - the very son He had miraculously provided. And Abraham obeyed! The book of Hebrews tells us that Abraham believed God could even raise Isaac from the dead. That's a level of trust I can hardly fathom.As I sit here writing, I'm trying to apply this to my own life. Where am I limiting God? Where do I need to trust Him to bring life to seemingly dead situations? It's scary to be honest. Trusting God this much means letting go of control, and that's not easy for me.I'm thinking about my career goals that seem out of reach, that relationship that seems beyond repair, those habits I've tried and failed to change so many times. What if I approached these with Abraham-like faith? What if I truly believed that God could speak new realities into existence in these areas?It's not just about positive thinking or wishful dreaming. This is about aligning my beliefs with the true nature of God - a God who creates out of nothing and who has power over death itself.I'm reminded of other stories in the Bible that demonstrate this same principle. The creation account in Genesis, where God spoke the universe into existence. The valley of dry bones in Ezekiel, where God breathed life into a hopeless situation. The resurrection of Jesus, the ultimate defeat of death.As I go about my day, I want to keep this perspective at the forefront of my mind. I serve a God of impossible possibilities. How would my prayers change if I really believed this? How would my actions change? How would I approach challenges differently?I'm feeling both challenged and excited. It's a bit overwhelming to think about trusting God this much, but it's also incredibly freeing. If God can do the impossible, then I don't have to have all the answers. I don't have to rely solely on my own strength or wisdom.Tomorrow, I want to start my day by identifying areas where I've given up hope. I'm going to write them down and then pray over them, asking God to help me see them through His eyes - the eyes of the God who calls things not being as being.This journey of faith is ongoing, and I know I'll have moments of doubt. But I'm grateful for this reminder of who God really is. May I live like I truly believe in the God of Abraham - the God who creates out of nothing and gives life to the dead.Here's to embracing a bigger view of God and a bolder faith.Until next time,Chaplain Mark

Nothing to See Here: Just God's Cosmic 'Abracadabra

<figure id="figure-qloxhcddwm1rpyl8x" class=""><img id="qloxhcddwm1rpyl8x" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21aGkcFNszpIaMlCRbL4SWwKWjtX1Z0Bq7z4VtRMB6b0XTjYZ4eyKcdwsbo1mThw.jpg" alt="a couple of people sitting at a table with cups of coffee" title="a couple of people sitting at a table with cups of coffee" 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/21aGkcFNszpIaMlCRbL4SWwKWjtX1Z0Bq7z4VtRMB6b0XTjYZ4eyKcdwsbo1mThw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,Today has been a day of deep reflection. I found myself reading Romans 5:1-2, and I've spent an hour turning these verses over in my mind. It's amazing how a familiar passage can suddenly reveal new depths.The phrase that really caught my attention was "peace toward God." I've read it countless times before, but today it hit differently. It's not just about having "peace with God," as if everything is settled and done. Instead, it's this idea of moving towards God, like I'm on a journey with Him as my destination.This got me thinking about my own faith journey. Sometimes I get frustrated with myself, feeling like I should have it all figured out by now. But this perspective is so freeing. It's okay that I'm still on the way. I'm not perfect, and I don't have all the answers, but I'm moving in the right direction. That's what matters.I had this vivid image come to mind while meditating on these verses. I saw justification by faith as this beautiful, ornate gate. As I passed through it, I found myself standing at the edge of this vast, sunlit field. This field, I realized, represents God's grace. It's so much bigger and more beautiful than I ever imagined.But here's the thing - just walking through that gate isn't enough. Now I actually need to explore this field, to walk through it and experience it. And the way to do that, according to this passage, is through peace.This idea of peace as a guide for my journey is really challenging me. I started thinking about the decisions I've made recently. That job offer I accepted last month - did I really feel at peace about it, or did I just jump at the opportunity because it seemed good on paper? And what about that argument I had with Mom last week? Was I walking in peace then, or was I letting my frustration guide my words?I'm realizing that I often push forward with things even when I feel unsettled about them. Sometimes it's because I'm afraid of missing out, or because I think I know better. But what if that lack of peace is actually God's way of steering me? What if, by ignoring it, I'm missing out on the path He has for me?This passage presents grace and peace in such an interesting way. Grace is like this solid foundation I'm standing on. It's God's unearned favor, this constant reminder that I'm loved and accepted not because of what I do, but because of who God is. It's what keeps me secure even when I mess up.But peace - peace is different. Peace is like this internal compass, always pointing me in the right direction. When I'm about to make a decision, peace (or the lack of it) is there to guide me. It's not just about feeling good; it's about alignment with God's will.You know, this whole perspective is really transforming how I see my faith. It's not static. It's not just about that decision I made to follow Jesus when I was 15. It's this vibrant, daily walk with God. Every day, I need to check in - am I standing in grace? Am I walking in peace?Some questions I want to ponder more deeply:1. &nbsp; How can I be more attuned to God's peace in my daily decisions? I do spend time in his word and in prayer and meditation.2. &nbsp; What does it look like for me to "stand in grace" when facing challenges? When I messed up last week, did I allow myself to stand in God's grace, or did I let shame and self-criticism take over?3. &nbsp; Are there areas in my life where I'm moving forward without peace? I'm thinking particularly about my relationship with Becky. When things get tense, and I'm not sure I feel at peace about where we're heading. At that time it's time to have an honest conversation and reevaluate things and get on the same page.4. &nbsp; How can I cultivate a greater awareness of this "field of enjoyment" that God has given me access to? Am I taking time to really appreciate the blessings in my life, or am I too focused on the next goal, the next achievement?Before I close, I want to write out a prayer:Lord, thank You for Your amazing grace that gives me a secure place to stand. Help me to root myself deeply in that grace, never taking it for granted, but also never doubting its sufficiency. Guide my steps, Lord. Help me to be sensitive to Your peace, to recognize it as Your voice steering me in the right direction. When I'm tempted to rush ahead or make decisions based on fear or selfish ambition, remind me to pause and seek Your peace.Help me to see my faith journey as this beautiful exploration of the field of Your grace. Let me not be content with just standing inside the gate, but give me the courage to walk further, to discover more of You each day. In the challenges I face - at work, in my relationships, in my personal growth - help me to stand firm in Your grace and to consistently choose the path of peace.Thank You for Your patience with me as I learn and grow. Thank You for the assurance that even though I'm still on the journey, I'm moving in the right direction - toward You. In Jesus' name, Amen.I feel like I've only scratched the surface of what these verses have to offer. I think I'll come back to this passage again soon - there's so much here to unpack, and I have a feeling that God will reveal even more as I continue to meditate on it.Until next timeChaplain Mark

My Peaceful Stroll Through Romans 5:1-2

<figure id="figure-z2ux0u3xdm1rm5cdz"><img id="z2ux0u3xdm1rm5cdz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aJkMiUNlBv07QMMUNYfJTcxQnIZWq0SSumsZfVkdpe2xPUfVGz2DqZuXbbj8xS6.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 15% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Baptism" data-positionX="15%" data-positionY="15%" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Baptism</figcaption></figure>Dear Reader,This week at my church (Frontline GR), We did baptism’s since then I've been reflecting on the concept of baptism and its profound meaning in my spiritual journey. Two Bible verses have been in my thoughts:"For just as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive." - 1 Corinthians 15:22 "Or are you ignorant that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death?" - Romans 6:3It struck me how significant baptism truly is. It's not just some religious ritual or tradition - it's a transformative experience that moves us from our old life in Adam to our new life in Christ.I feel a bit frustrated when I think about how often Christians argue over the external details of baptism - the type of water, the method used. It seems we're missing the point entirely. Baptism is about being put into Christ and identifying with His death. It's about a profound spiritual change.When I was baptized, did I fully grasp this? I'm not sure. But now I see it as the moment I was transferred from being part of Adam's fallen humanity to being part of Christ's redeemed community. It's mind-boggling to think about - through baptism, I've been identified with Christ in His death and resurrection.I wonder how this truth should impact my daily life. If I'm no longer in Adam but absolutely in Christ, how should that change the way I think, act, and relate to others? It's something I need to ponder more.I'm grateful for this realization about baptism. It's not about perpetuating a ritual, but about experiencing a genuine, life-altering connection with Christ. I hope I can hold onto this truth and let it shape my faith journey moving forward.Note to self: Maybe I should share these thoughts with my small group. It could lead to an interesting discussion about our baptism experiences and what they mean to us now.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Baptism: The Ultimate Adam-to-Christ Makeover

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