Is Loyalty always a good thing.  It always makes us feel good when someone does something nice for us or better yet stands up for us in public when it is not popular to do so. These are real feel good moments.
But what if what we are being loyal to is not aligned with God’s will.  That can be a difficult thing especially when family or friends are involved. The feel good moments then become difficult decisions. If we look at the life of Ruth we see a woman that gave her loyalty to Naomi and her God.

But Ruth replied, “Don’t try to make me leave you and go back. Where you go I’ll go. Where you stay I’ll stay. Your people will be my people. Your God will be my God. Where you die I’ll die. And there my body will be buried. I won’t let anything except death separate you from me. If I do, may the LORD punish me greatly.”
                                                                  - Ruth 1:16-17

If we can make this loyalty to God and not man then everyone will see this beautiful act of worship for the King of Kings for all He has done for us just as the people of Bethlehem saw Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi and shared it with Boaz, Naomi’s kin.

 And Boaz answered and said to her, “It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband… The LORD repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge.”  -Ruth 2:11-12

Let us be bold in our loyalty to God through acts of encouragement, love, grace and forgiveness as the Holy Spirit guides us.  We should not fear these difficult decisions because the Lord Jesus Christ Himself tells us throughout scripture in words and deeds that He will not leave us or forsake us. So don’t let your heart be troubled, if you are in the will of God, He’s got your back!

One of the prominent arguments I hear frequently in Christian circles including from my own mouth is how the state of the nation and its culture took a definitive turn downward when prayer was removed from public schools. This certainly seems to be apparent and difficult to argue against. But is it the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help us God? First of all, prayer was removed from public schools and not all schools. There are many private schools that make the same definitive decision not to emphasize prayer to our Lord and Savior. Is that the governments fault? Shouldn’t we search our individual hearts for the wellspring of this blame game? I don’t want this thought of mine to be considered a shill for Big government because I’m anything but that. I do however think we as the family of believers would fare much better if we focused once again on the supreme commandment of our Savior.

 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, - Matthew 28:19-20

 We are relieved when we see ethical leaders in government, business and the church are we not? Where do these ethical leaders come from? The family is the fuel that fortifies the public square and it is the Lord through the power of the Holy Spirit that fortifies the family.  Psalm 78 is instructive in our role to disciple as Jesus stated in Matthew only here in Psalms it speaks of parental discipleship.

We will not hide them from their children, Telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.  –Psalm 78:4

Revival begins in the homes of those who put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and live it out into the community. The failing of the culture began with dry bones being scattered throughout Christian homes everywhere and the question we should ask is that which God asked Ezekiel.

The LORD asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”  I said, “LORD and King, you are the only one who knows.”

Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones. Tell them, ‘Dry bones, listen to the LORD’s message. The LORD and King speaks to you. He says, “I will put breath in you. Then you will come to life again... Then you will know that I am the LORD.”’” 

So I prophesied just as the LORD commanded me to... But there was no breath in them.  Then the Lord said to me, Prophesy to the breath... Then they can live.

So I prophesied just as he commanded me to. And the breath entered them. Then they came to life again. They stood up on their feet.  They were like a huge army.

- Ezekiel 37:3-9

 It is my prayer that we as the family of believers will heed the commandments of our savior Jesus Christ and begin to breathe life into the dry bones of our faith and disciple this generation of young people to understand who the Lord is and what He has done for us. 

Strong and True

Be strong.  Be true.  You fellow you
True is the best.  Strong is the crest
God makes you strong.  God makes you true.
God makes the blessings go all the way through you.

 

A little over two thousand years ago, the Messiah road into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey.  His ride was unpretentious with only a cloak covering the colt's back and yet, people still spread their robes and palm branches on the road before him in celebration of His kingship. "Hosanna in the highest!"  was proclaimed by the crowd as recorded in Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19 and again in John 12.  It was less than a week later when the crowds, who likely participated in Jesus' carpeted entry into Jerusalem, would call for His crucifixion.

In sharp contrast are the red carpet events celebrated by us today. Fashion shows, movie premiers and possibly the most celebrated is the Academy Awards. Just like the crowds of Jesus time on that Palm Sunday, we celebrate, these personalities even to the point of worship.  Actors, musicians, politicians and all type of performers in various shapes and sizes receive our never ending attention and admiration. Are these the golden calves of our day?  What do you treasure in this life?  "For where your treasure is, there your heart is also" (Matthew 6:21).  Our red carpets today are flush with self admiration, pride and egotism and yet the True royalty that rode into Jerusalem that Palm Sunday was humbly preparing to give His life rather than a performance. He was giving His life for you and for me. This Resurrection Day I pray that we as the family of believers will ask the Lord to reveal our idols to us and that we will accept that revelation with a contrite heart.  Then focus on the True King of Kings, so we can roll out the red carpet of our hearts to our Savior Jesus Christ!

 "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"

 Does anything illustrate the Pavlovian principle like the seatbelt sign being turned off at the end of a flight? Ding! And the instinctive response is to stand as everyone does almost in unison like your team just scored a basket, goal, touchdown or fill in the blank to suit your own personal sports connotation. Even folks with window seats stand bent over awkwardly like spelunkers waiting for their respective turn to move. Just like Pavlov’s dogs, we too have been trained to provide instinctive responses.

Keeping with the airline reference, I was traveling on business a few weeks back and overheard a woman having a discussion on an interesting topic with the travelers around her. At first it was just the normal banal banter that takes place on the return flight on a Friday afternoon. The woman was traveling with her child and the other travelers seemed to be not related but interested in the discussion. I began to tune in when the woman lamented the Disney shows and their poor representations of dads and parents in general. I’ve spent considerable time on this soapbox myself. The surrounding travelers agreed with her and even added examples of their own. All seemed to have a very good understanding of what parenting ought to be. Then it happened. Just like that instinctive speech kicked in just as if Pavlov had rang a bell and we were defeated. Instead of iron sharpening iron or Braveheart riding up to encourage the fellow parents gathered there, I heard the standard voices of fear and defeat similar to what Joshua and Caleb experienced the first time Moses knocked on the door to Canaan. “It’s a sign of the times”. “It’s Hollywood being Hollywood”.

Are we being held captive by this culture hostile to Biblical principles or are we hostages to our own fear? One way to overcome this peer pressure is to understand what is at stake. General “Mad” Anthony Wayne a legislator and Brigadier General in Colonial America understood the stakes when he lead the assault on a British outpost on the Hudson river called Stony Point. After capturing the fort, General Wayne reported to General George Washington the following.

“The fort and garrison with Col. Johnston are ours. Our officers and men behaved like men who are determined to be free.”

 Have we as the family of believers lost our determination for freedom?

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom”. – 2 Cor 3:17

Dear Jackie,

Greetings in our Savior's name. I am writing to say thank you and God bless you for the gift of one of your precious Ruth dolls and the book that accompanies her. As I made the long journey to Nigeria this time I carried Ruth in my backpack with her head sticking out the top. I cannot begin to tell you how many conversations she started with strangers, curious about the little girl peeking out of my pack. Even before reaching Nigeria, Ruth's story was told numerous times.

When I arrived in Nigeria I traveled by motor for about 8 hours to Ministry of Mercy Orphanage located in the small village of Otutulu. The orphanage is the home to 300+ amazing children who are disabled, motherless or suffering from diseases such as HIV/AIDS. I have been visiting the orphanage for about 6 years now and there has always been a little girl who pains my heart deeply. She is 12 years old now and has seen more than her share of suffering and trauma. I will spare you details but instead just say that the horrors this little child of God endured are beyond comprehension. I have tried year in and year out to get close to her or to find a way to build a relationship but nothing I have tried worked. She would bite, scratch, fight and pull away if anyone even tried to touch her. After 6 years of trying, the best I could do was have her sit "near" me as long as I did not acknowledge her presence or touch her.

Well, your doll was answered prayer. I started to take her out each afternoon and just sit under a tree and read from your book to any of the children who wanted to listen. Then I noticed this little girl beginning to stand and then sit in the back of the children. I began allowing a child to come up front and hold Ruth while I read. After about a week I decided to ask this young girl if she could come and hold Ruth while I read. I was shocked when she came forward and took Ruth. From that day forward the walls started to come down. By the time I was to return to the U.S. this little girl had now started meeting me at my room so that she could carry Ruth out to where we would sit. On the morning I was to leave I found this little girl and asked if she would care for Ruth and the book until I returned and she said yes. My heart leaped!!

 Your Ruth doll is now safe and being watched over by a beautiful and resilient little girl, who by the way, name just happens to be RUTHIE. How great our God truly is, to use you and your doll with the perfect name to reach our Ruthie.

In this holiday season when we are rejoicing over the birth of our savior and the amazing gift that He offers each one of us, I have to again say thank you for your gift. The gift of the perfect doll, with the perfect name, to break through the walls our Ruthie had built. We will continue to use your doll and book to teach Ruthie about God's unceasing faithfulness and love. Whether we come from the USA or Nigeria, or our past is scarred and dark, when we seek God and surrender to His plan we can find the same peace and purpose discovered by Ruth in scripture.

Ojo ki denyo nwe me, (May God Bless you and your family)

Julie Styskal

Lamplight Missions Ministry

Why don’t more young girls today talk about Ruth, Esther or even Mary?Do the lives of these biblical heroines have anything to say to our young girls today? The answer to that is a resounding “YES!”. These stories are literally drenched in the sovereignty of God. Naomi and her family travelled all the way to Moab to make history with a young girl named Ruth. And of course Esther rose to be God’s servant “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Young girls can take comfort in knowing that God has a plan for each and every one of us. A plan to give us a hope and a future (Jer 29:11). In addition to sovereignty there is obedience and perseverance in how Ruth, Esther and Mary persisted in the face of fear and uncertainty. Commitment to the purpose the Lord had placed on them.

This Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our savior Jesus Christ, let us meditate on His nature and be guided by it as it lights our paths. Let us lift up His sovereignty, obedience, integrity and perseverance and lift them up as a model for our daily walk. There are none of us beyond the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. That is what Ruth tells young girls today. She was introduced to God through Naomi and "clinged" to the promises of God (Ruth 1:14-16) of which she was a part. Ruth is the great Grandmother of King David in the lineage of Jesus Christ. The biblical accounts of these heroines fortify that we do not have to worry. We trust in the Lord for where God purposes He equips. So... What is God's plan for you? What will be your story and how will it glorify His Story?

Comfortable In Your Own Skin?

Should one be comfortable in their own skin?  Well in one sense, there is a certain level of comfort due to familiarity.  In another sense it’s been said that familiarity breeds contempt. Certainly anyone truly wanting to walk with the Lord has asked the creator of our minds and bodies  to reveal those character deficits that separate us from Him.  I know this can be a very scary undertaking.  Often times we are all to familiar with these character deficits. However, once we know that He knows, which is a silly deception we play on ourselves because God knows everything,  there is a necessary compulsion to act on its resolution.  The psalmists spoke clearly of this earnest need for soul searching.

Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.  – Psalm 4:4
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.  – Psalm 139:23-24

So should we be comfortable in our own skin?  The Apostle Paul clearly articulated his experience with his own flesh in his letter to the Romans. 

For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.  – Romans 7:17

So in light of these verses, can we be comfortable in our own skin? To the extent that we remain vigilant, repentant and offer our bodies as living sacrifices (Rom 12:1), we can in fact glorify the Lord by being bold ambassadors for Christ as lead by the Holy Spirit. We should nevertheless always continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil 2:12). 

Lions and Tigers and Ruth, Oh My!

Ruth travels to Motor City to accompany The Freedom Girls in their quest for Acrobatic Gold. The Cobo Exhibition Center in downtown Detroit was the location of the USA Gymnastics Acro Nationals Championships.  Although there were five total days of competition, Jordan and her team members only performed on two of those days. This provided a wonderful opportunity for Ruth to get out and see the the town.

Ruth met Tigers fans over American Coney Dogs and shared laughs with the staff at Subway.

She enjoyed Baklava from a pastry chef at the Astoria Pastry Shop.  Shared laughs with the staffs at Pizza Papalis and Subway. Winning a gold medal in team competition requires commitment and loyalty to your team mates.  These are characteristics that Ruth can teach in abundance.  After all she left her father and her mother and her homeland and committed herself to Naomi, her people and her God.

Ruth engaged people.  Whether it was Naomi her mother in-law, Orpah her sister in-law, the girls gleaning or the many folks that worked in Boaz' field. After all, isn't that the second greatest commandment?

I wasn't planning on taking Ruth with me to Fiesta Texas, but when mom came up behind me and said: "Conner? I know you won't want to do this, but..." I knew exactly what she wanted from me. I'm seventeen years old! I'm half a year from adulthood and she wants me to drag a doll around Fiesta Texas? This is when mom put her begging into all or nothing mode.  "Ruth needs an adventure! This would be so much fun!!" We're talking about Ruth, the doll, right? I hardly think she would notice the difference between being squished in my bag at a crowded theme park and sitting on the shelf at home.  "Plus I could tweet about it!" She continued.  Oh no... Moms new twitter obsession is becoming frightening.

This is when I began to mentally argue with myself. The devilish form of myself on my right shoulder was goin' at it with the angelic me on the left. Finally I convinced myself to take Ruth with me. I could not deny mom her simple request.  After all, I've been a desperate tweeter before. So, with my bag full of sun screen and money I grabbed Ruth and we headed for the car. "Ruth" I said to her, discarding my current sanity. "You can be so inconvenient." Cruel, I know, but she didn't seem to take it too hard, she just stared at me with that winsome smile and those dark eyes.

Before I knew it, Ruth and I were in the church van headed for the park. She didn't exactly fit comfortably in my bag but I didn't want to walk around all day with only her head protruding from the top so I searched for a different approach. Aha! Lightbulb! I grabbed my towel, snuggled Ruth in it and stuck it in my bag. The only thing still visible was a tuft of her hair protruding from the middle of the towel. This'll work. I slung the the small yellow backpack over my shoulders and headed for the entrance.

"Oh you brought your doll" says the lady at the desk, "how cute". Her voice was slightly condescending and I noticed that maybe she was trying too hard not to laugh. "C'mon, ma'am." You've never seen a seventeen year old carry a doll around before? ReaIly?  Not ever? I tried to convince myself.  I smiled politely at the lady and walked forward to have my bag checked. I was preparing to defend my bag of veggies as I handed my bag forward, but what came next completely surprised me.

I turned just in time to see the man, who was supposed to be checking my bag, recoil his hands quickly. The look on his face reflected one of sheer horror. Seeing his obvious confusion as to what was sticking out of my bag I tried to reassure him without breaking down with laughter. My hand shot up and I started talking to him like a cop would talk to a hostage-holding criminal.

“It's just a doll. No worries” I told him slowly. His physical stance didn't change, however. “it's just a doll” I told him again, reaching my hand into the bag to reveal the rest of Ruth's head. She just smirked, obviously finding this guy very entertaining. After this awkward encounter he just handed me the bag, not even bothering to search the rest of it. I have a feeling he wasn't prepared for anymore strange surprises.

The rest of the trip was fun and just as entertaining. Ruth got to see the park, and then eventually... The inside of a locker. (We didn't want her to get wet). All in all, it was a good trip.  It started with a lesson in humility and obedience as I was acosted by my mothers will that was drastically different than my own.  Maybe it was good I took this journey with Ruth.  After all, these are lessons she herself taught us (Ruth 1:16-17, Ruth 2:22-23).

This month we celebrate the initial step in the formation of this great nation.  The colonists had already been battling the British for over a year when the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. One of the reasons for delay was the colonists insistence on unanimity from the 13 states.  Why would this be important?  Well two reasons come to mind.  The first is the Declaration of Independence was a declaration of War.  It put skin in the game for the founding fathers who by signing this document inked themselves as traitors to the British crown.  The second reason can be explained with the following excerpt from the Declaration of Independence.

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.”  -- Declaration of Independence

The use of words like dissolve and separation do not just reflect differences in conduct but rather in identity.  CS Lewis wrote in Mere Christianity, “Very often the only way to get a quality in reality is to start behaving as if you had it already”.  In the movie Facing the Giants there is a story told about two farmers that desperately needed rain, but only one went out and prepared his fields to receive it. Only one started to behave as if he had the rain already. In the same way, the Declaration of Independence established the identity of a new nation of United States as if it had it already.  The independence had not been won at this time, but the new nation was preparing its fields.  These colonists had in effect already become independent 
In the same vein we as Christians should have this same unanimity of Spirit.  If we believe in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior then we should put skin in the game by picking up our cross and carrying it daily.  Not in some vain attempt to show good for men to see, but rather to be good.  We should prepare our fields by dissolving the political bands which connect us to the world and assume the separate and equal station in submission to our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. 

“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” – John 15:19

This continued act of preparing our fields in submission will eventually provide a transformation from what you do to who you are.  Once the transformation or renewing of the mind is complete, you to just like the founding fathers will have achieved a quality in reality.  You will have your independence.  True Freedom in Christ.

Everywhere we look we see broken homes, broken families and broken people.  There's an attack on the family institution as well as the sacred covenant of marriage.  

There's fathers who abuse their children, mistreat their families or just walk out all together.  What happened? But then,  I look at my own father and I see nothing but strength, guidance and love.  Thus earning him the loving title of "daddy". 

The movie 'Courageous' ended with a very powerful question.  A question that wasn't just directed to the people sitting in that auditorium,but to every person who would ever watch that movie.  Alex Kendrick asks, "where are you men of courage?" After posing this question many of the men around the room began to stand, amidst watching eyes, to signify their acceptance of the challenge of living courageously.  The challenge was easily said, but it wasn't easily accepted nor easily done.  It was a wake up call, a reality slap to empower  men to become the courageous leaders of their families, to become true christlike fathers and to fearlessly love and guide their families through all circumstances.  

As times continue to get more difficult and these attacks continue, we need these men to be prepared to rise to the challenge of leading their families.  Father's day isn't just a day to receive "totally unexpected"  gifts and eat expensive food.  It's a reminder of the role and duty that father's must fulfill.  

My father as always been the rock in our family.  He's calm (usually), logical and reasonable beyond belief.  Even in the midst of all these female hormones, he guides our family firmly and gently.  In my opinion, he’s the smartest man I know.  Never have I known a problem that my dad couldn’t fix, or a question he couldn’t answer.  If I have a problem, I know he’ll always be there to talk to me about it.  Not only am I truly blessed, I also have a very good picture of what a father should look like.  The task is difficult, but it's worth it. 

So, men of courage, are you willing to stand and accept the challenge?

The following excerpt is from an article that I previously wrote that was published in The Old Schoolhouse magazine Fall 2011.  I am re-publishing in this newsletter in recognition of Father's Day 2012. 

As I write this note, the paraphrased words of Mordecai in the fourth chapter of Esther ring clearly in my mind: "Who knows but that you have come to this royal position for such a time as this."Seems initially like pretty lofty stuff. But as dads, are we not sitting in the same position, overseeing the family's royal crest? Aren't we called to lead our families to the knowledge of Christ? Do we not have the purpose of reflecting to our family and neighbors faith, hope, and most importantly the love of Christ? These are certainly royal objectives, because they are ordained by the King of kings, our Lord Jesus Christ. But do we treat them as royal objectives? Do we as fathers stand steadfast between our children and a broken world that is aggressively making overtures for their hearts and minds? Do we as fathers promote the love of Christ to our children in our daily expression? A daily expression, which is akin to Jesus' words to take up your cross daily,should begin in the home and radiate out from there.

As a dad you should actively show your daughter that she is worth fighting for says Meg Meeker in her book, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters. Your son needs to know from you that he measures up. The relationship between the daughter/son and the father is critical to show them how to focus on the Lord as their only source of hope. This is not done solely from the Paternal Pulpit. We as dads must mix in a healthy dose of humility and love. They need your help to understand trials and the consequences of their choices, because it is in these challenges they will discover the true nature of God. They should never doubt that you love them and will fight for them without hesitation and without end.

Who knows but that we as dads have come to this royal position for such a time as this-to turn off the TV, computer, and phone and to patiently talk with our children as we sit at home, walk along the road, lie down and get up. Who knows but that we have come to this royal position for such a time as this, to lead our children through individual relationships to a commitment of faith in Jesus Christ. This commitment to Christ will equip our children to stand firm to the end and be saved as the world grows increasingly dark and the love of most grows cold.Who knows but that we have come to this royal position for such a time as this to provide a refuge that will keep our children strong, so they can learn to love their friends and enemies as they love themselves,because love covers a multitude of sins. Let us heed the call to refocus on the family as the core of society and to make it healthy once again by seeking the Lord earnestly through family prayer, praise, devotionals, and yes, even fasting. We are called to walk a path fraught with one battle after another as we swim against the cultural current. But if we persevere, God promises character and hope.What better objectives are there? It truly is a great time to be a dad. I thank the Lord for this royal appointment . . . at such a time as this.

This is the question I ask when I attempt to leave my house wearing something not at all pleasing to my parents. Of course I’m not wearing anything bad, they just have a different definition of "appropriate".

Now I have been taught that I’m not allowed to wear anything too short and too low so I try my best to stick to modest dress. I still at times fall short of the mark, because like I said my parents have different standards. God has standards also and in the Bible God refers to our bodies as His temple. We’re supposed to respect ourselves with what we wear. When I dress inappropriately, I’m not only disrespecting myself, but also those around me.

I recently finished reading "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" with a group of friends my age. One of the chapters went into detail about how distracting it is for boys when we girls walk around wearing really short shorts or very low cut tops. We are supposed to respect our brothers in Christ not lead them into temptation. One of the chapters asked the boys what they thought about girls who dressed immodestly. Most of the boys confirmed their appreciation when girls respected them enough to dress modestly.

So as I conclude, you might not find it a big deal. But I tell you it is to my parents and more importantly, it is to the Lord. We should all keep that in mind. And I guess my parents and I are getting closer to reconciliation on the definition of "appropriate". But just in case, say a prayer for me.

“Fureeh” is good.An email came out a few days ago from our neighborhood email distribution.  “Free Fridge.  Email back if you want it.”  I could not reply fast enough!  I have never had an extra fridge.  I have often seen them in other people’s homes, but not mine.   And this was all the better!  It was free!  Did I say “fureeh?”  Well, today we cleaned it up and plugged it in.   I was overjoyed with this simple little gift that I didn’t have to pay for.   I love a great deal but this was over the top!

Jesus has given us a great deal!  I wonder if Jesus ever gets contemplative and asks his children   “Grace anyone?  It’s Fureeh!  Get on board!  I have plenty to go around and I want to give some to YOU!  Matter of fact, beloved, I am willing to give you all you desire!    No payment required because I have already paid for it.  All you have to do is ask.”  Do we ask?  I wonder how many of us would be lined up in front of Neimans if they were giving away free clothes?  Would we share this fantastic event with our friends?  I  just wonder!

Are we living in abundant grace?  Are we joyfully dancing in our churches like King David?  Are we experiencing unbridled freedom through Christ?  Do our friends know there is something different about us?    Or do we, instead, act like spoiled brats because our children are out of control?   Not enough money at the end of the month?  The hubby is getting on our nerves?  The list goes on and on, right?    “The old life is gone; a new life has begun.”  2 Corinthians 5:17

Remember “ fureeh” is good!  “Fureeh” is the best!   Nothing can or will ever compare to the free gift of God’s unconditional grace.

“So Christ has truly set us free.”Galatians 5:1

Jackie Liberto

I recently went “home” to visit my family.  First, I am not sure why I call it home, but I always have.  I haven’t lived there for 25 years, but it is still home to me.  It is always refreshing to visit family and old friends.  However, while I was there I attended a funeral of a young man I went to school with.  His death was sudden and unexpected.  As I pondered the circumstances surrounding his death, I wondered what held him captive.

He indeed was being held captive, you see he was a drug addict. Something in his life persuaded him to delve into the dark, lonely world of drugs and alcohol instead of embracing a life of freedom without the bondage of an addiction.   We are all being held captive by something.  His stronghold was just more apparent than others.  What enslaves us to the point where we abandon God and his unwavering love?  Worry? Unforgiveness?  Bitterness of heart?  Lustful thoughts? The list is endless, but we have the power to overcome with Jesus Christ.

Jackie Liberto

What is the real meaning of love? Or what is love? What does it truly mean to love someone unconditionally? We as fallen human beings do not possess the same power to love one another unconditionally as God does. Although we can try, it’s hard to love that certain person ALL THE TIME through the good and bad, the ups and the downs, the highs and the lows. It’s easy to love during the good, the ups and the highs but what does it take, as Christians to also love through the bad, the downs or the lows. To some it may be that they were hurt and struggle to love because of that hurt.

I struggle with this, I went through some difficult times in middle school and now I find it hard to say anything good or uplifting about the people who hurt me. But think about the awesome example Jesus gave us with His death on the cross. As Jesus was beaten, cursed, spit on and ultimately hung on the cross, did he bad mouth all the sinful people of the world that he was dying such an excruciating death for? Actually it was quite the opposite. He asked His father to forgive them. He endured that because he loved us so much and wanted us to spend an eternity with him.

So if Jesus Christ can do that, what will it take for us to show some love for that person that offends you. If the offense was in the past, then forgive and reconcile. Isn’t this how Jesus taught us to pray? "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." – [Matthew 6:9-15] If the person continues to offend, then continue to forgive and pray for them. Jesus taught us of this perseverance as well did he not? "Forgive 70 x 7" -- [Matthew 18:21-22] You don’t have to continue being around the person but keep your arms open for such a time their heart changes and they want to have a relationship with you.

Conner Liberto

Have you ever doubted God?  I have unfortunately.  It amazes me that I can read the stories of the Bible and be so astounded with the faithfulness of God and then something “weird” happens and I start to doubt!   Psalm 55:22 says: "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall."  Some of you are probably saying, “But it's not that easy”.  I agree.   It requires that you completely loosen your grasp on the problem and let the Lord handle it.  That is something I struggle with daily.

We moved to Boerne when I was in third grade, and with moving there comes other big changes like switching schools. So I enrolled in a new school and spent the next 6 years there.   Unfortunately, these were not the most enjoyable years. We prayed but things didn’t seem to be getting any better, in my eyes. But, like always, God had bigger plans, I just didn’t see it yet. So I doubted at times. It’s not that I didn’t trust God, I just wanted to fix the problem on my own.

Now, I'm a sophomore in high school and although I still struggle with bitterness occasionally, the Lord has definitely gotten me on the road to healing as well as blessing me abundantly. I have amazing friends, an amazing family and an amazing God.   It's always been tough for me to completely let it go and give it to the Lord but it’s a process.  I would just like to reiterate that the Lord does not want you to carry these burdens, the Bible says he is willing to carry them for us because he loves us that much! Never doubt God, he knows what he's doing! :)

Conner Liberto

I am free from sin and death because of Christ!

John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but will have eternal life.”

I love the fact that God loves us so very much that he gave his one and only son so we could have eternal  life with Him and we will not perish.  I am very happy that we can live with him after we die. I think that God is so awesome because he died for us.  He will always forgive us for our sins.  God always watches us while we sleep and play.