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Today, I'm thinking about dependency and life. It's strange how we celebrate independence in so many areas of our lives, yet true life demands something entirely different—a profound, continuous dependence.I think about my own journey—all those years of education, learning to be self-sufficient, mastering skills. Each graduation felt like a triumph of independence. But what if real growth isn't about becoming independent, but about understanding my fundamental need for connection?The biblical passages I've been studying today hit me differently. That line about life being "an illuminating force" resonates within me. It's not just about existing, but about being fully alive—radiant, connected, purposeful.I'm struck by the metaphor of breathing. I can't "graduate" from breathing. No matter how skilled I become, how much I learn, I will always need air. It's a humbling thought. My spiritual life is no different. I'm not meant to become an expert who no longer needs sustenance, but a perpetual receiver, always drawing from a source beyond myself.What does it mean to truly depend? Not weakness, but a conscious, intentional receptivity. Not resignation, but an active choice to remain connected to something greater than my own capabilities.Today, I choose dependence. Today, I breathe.

The Art of Not Knowing It All

Chaplain's Reflection on Occupation and Spiritual CallingIn my years of counseling military personnel, first responders, and individuals wrestling with life's deepest challenges, I've witnessed a universal struggle that transcends profession and circumstance. The occupation of the soul—how we become imprisoned by our daily routines, our perceived responsibilities, and our self-imposed limitations—is a profound spiritual crisis.When we examine the biblical narrative of Jesus calling his first disciples, we're not just looking at a historical account. We're observing a profound spiritual intervention. These fishermen—Peter, Andrew, James, and John—represent every individual who has ever felt trapped by their circumstances, defined by their occupation, and disconnected from their deeper purpose.In my office, I've heard countless variations of the same story. A soldier who can't see beyond the next mission. A first responder consumed by the weight of constant emergencies. A professional who has forgotten why they originally chose their path. Their occupation has become their prison, their identity reduced to a job description.The spiritual danger here is not work itself. Work is noble, necessary. The danger lies in allowing work to occupy the sacred space meant for spiritual connection, personal growth, and meaningful relationships. We were created for more than survival—we were created for significance.When individuals come to me feeling lost, overwhelmed, or spiritually depleted, I often ask: "What occupies your heart?" Not your time, not your schedule—but your heart. Where is your true attention? What narrative are you allowing to define you?Jesus' call to those first disciples was not an interruption of their work, but an invitation to a larger purpose. He didn't condemn their profession but revealed that their true identity was not defined by their nets, but by their potential for transformation.In my counseling, I've developed a simple framework I share with those struggling:Recognize the difference between making a living and making a life Create intentional spaces for spiritual reflection Understand that your occupation is what you do, not who you are Listen for the deeper call that transcends daily responsibilities The most profound healing comes when individuals realize that they are not their job, their challenges, or their past. They are beloved beings with inherent worth, called to something greater than mere survival.To those feeling trapped, overwhelmed, or disconnected: Your occupation does not define you. Your worth is not measured by productivity. Your spiritual journey is not on hold because you're busy. The invitation to a deeper life is always present, always extending, always waiting for you to respond.In the sacred space between what you do and who you are, there lies an opportunity for true transformation.Until next timeChaplain Mark

The Sacred Space Between Doing and Being

Dear reader &nbsp; The Christmas season often brings images of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but for many— yes myself included at times—it can also be a season marked by sadness, grief, or loneliness. It’s easy to feel out of place in a world that seems to demand constant cheer. That’s why I’m so thankful that my church is hosting a Blue Christmas Service this year.This service offers a space to bring our heartaches and burdens before God. It’s a time to acknowledge the struggles that weigh on us, while finding hope and healing in His presence. It reminds me that even when the holidays feel heavy, God meets us right where we are.One verse that gives me comfort is Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." In these words, I hear Jesus’ gentle invitation—a reminder that it’s okay to feel tired or broken. He doesn’t ask us to pretend everything is fine; instead, He offers rest for our souls.I’m also drawn to Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This verse reminds me that God draws near when we feel most distant or alone. His love doesn’t depend on our circumstances or emotions; it’s steadfast, even in our darkest moments.As I think about the Blue Christmas Service, I find hope in Isaiah 9:2: "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned." This season is about Jesus—the Light who shines in our darkness, the hope who never fades.I pray for those who will attend the service and for anyone feeling the weight of this season. I pray that we will experience God’s peace, even in our pain. And I pray that the Blue Christmas Service will be a reminder of His promise: that the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5).Though the holidays may look and feel different, I hold onto the truth that Christmas isn’t just about celebrating; it’s about finding hope in the One who came to save us. Even when joy feels distant, His peace and presence are near.

When the Holidays Hurt

Dear reader - Today, I've been reflecting on the upcoming Christmas season. It's such a bittersweet time. The world is abuzz with joy and festivities, yet my heart feels the weight of absence. I miss those who are no longer here to share in the celebration. It's a “blue Christmas” for me.I found solace in Psalm 34:18: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse is a gentle reminder that God is near, especially in moments of deep sorrow. His presence is a source of comfort, wrapping around me like a warm blanket on a cold winter's night.This season, I'm choosing to honor the memories of my loved ones in meaningful ways. I think I'll light a candle for each of them, letting the soft glow serve as a tribute to the light they brought into my life. I'll share stories with friends and family, cherishing the laughter and lessons we shared. In these quiet moments, I find peace in remembering them.As I navigate this blue Christmas, I remind myself of the essence of the holiday—God's love made manifest through Jesus Christ. Even in my grief, this love is steadfast. It's okay to feel a blend of joy and sorrow, to laugh and cry in the same breath. The memories of my loved ones are a beautiful tapestry woven into the fabric of my life.I pray for strength and comfort, knowing that God is holding me close. I pray that the hope of reunion with my loved ones gives me peace. And I pray for others who are experiencing a blue Christmas, that they too find solace in God's unfailing love.Until next timeChaplain Mark

The Light and Shadow of Christmas: Navigating a Blue Season with Grace"?

Dear Reader,Today, I'm thinking about rest. Not just the kind that happens when you collapse into bed after a long day, but something deeper. Something sacred.I've been running myself ragged lately. Work, responsibilities, endless to-do lists. Always moving, always doing. But what if the most profound moments aren't about what I accomplish, but about what I allow myself to simply... be?This idea of the Sabbath—it's not just an old religious rule. It feels like a lifeline. Imagine a day where everything stops. No emails, no chores, no expectations. Just breathing. Just existing.What strikes me is this radical notion: rest comes before work. Not as a reward, but as a foundation. I've always thought I had to earn my peace, prove my worth through constant motion. But what if my worth isn't measured by my productivity? What if I'm valuable simply because I am?I'm learning that grace doesn't work like a transaction. It's not "do this, get that." It's a gift. Freely given. Before I lift a finger, before I prove anything, I am already loved.Some days, this feels impossible to believe. My mind races with all the things I "should" be doing. But then I remember: there's a rhythm to life that isn't about constant grinding. It's about moments of stillness. Moments of connection.Today, I want to practice this. To breathe. To stop. To remember that my humanity isn't defined by my output, but by my capacity to rest, to receive, to simply be.Maybe that's the real work.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Breathing Space

Woman sitting and studying the scriptures.The  wooden cross in the hands. Christian education concepts The Holy Scriptures open

Dear reader,I've been thinking about God creating us in His image. It's weird, right? We look like Him, but we're not really like Him. It's like a photo of someone—you can see what they look like, but it's not actually them.When God made humans, we were kind of like a snapshot of Him. We looked similar, had some of His characteristics, but we didn't have His actual life inside us. It's like being a really good photocopy, but not the real thing.God wanted us to really know Him, to have His life in us. But we missed that. We were just... existing. Not really connecting.Then Jesus came. And suddenly, believing in Him means we can actually have God's life inside us. It's not about looking right anymore. It's about being alive in a real way.I'm starting to understand that expressing God isn't about trying to be perfect. It's about letting His life flow through me. Like, I'm not just a picture anymore. I'm becoming real.That's pretty amazing when you think about it.Until tomorrowChaplain Mark

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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

The Art of Not Knowing It All

The Sacred Space Between Doing and Being

When the Holidays Hurt

The Light and Shadow of Christmas: Navigating a Blue Seas...

Breathing Space

Copy/Paste: The Heavenly Edition