Filtering by Category: Friday Love
Cool
Morris Day always comes to mind when I hear the word cool. Billy Dee Williams. Idris Elba. James Bond. Dick Tracy. A lot of other names and things come to mind when I think of the word cool, but not Jesus Christ. Growing up it never seemed cool to be a Christian. There were so many rules and regulations. However, I can think of a few other religions that are far more strict than Christianity. Jesus has never really been mainstream. A few fads every now and then. I’m sure you remember what would Jesus do and Jesus take the wheel. Kanye made it cool for Jesus to walk with me. God is Dope made it cool to rock pseudo-inspired apparel. God knew that salvation wasn’t a popularity contest. God knew that it wasn’t about likes and shares but more about followers. Remember that when you find yourself scrolling on social media. Who are you following?
Spirit
John 4:24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.
It’s funny how we struggle with spiritual things, yet quote scripture inspired by God. We acknowledge the holy spirit, yet deny our own spirituality. We’ve seen God move. We’ve benefited from spiritual settings. We’ve explained it away. We feel it. We know it. It’s spirit. It’s God spirit in us. We have it. We possess it. Acknowledge it. Embrace the freedom of it.
2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Namaste
If you've ever taken a yoga class, you are familiar with the Hindu term. It’s a common Indian term that has been used to express gratitude towards a person. I’ve heard that some people use it to acknowledge the God/spirit they see in one another. It’s a word that gives reverence. I wonder how much better off we would be if we saw God in one another. If every exchange ended with acknowledging God, what would our cities and our country look like? Namaste. A simple word with a fairly simple meaning reminded me that we are all children of the Most High and we should acknowledge that more often.
Request
Phillipians 4:6 KJV. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
If I’m honest I usually stop quoting this scripture at be anxious for nothing. Somehow, I conveniently forget the part about prayer, petitioning, and praise. I think that’s the part that most of us miss. We want. We ask. We try to get it on our own, but we don’t really petition God on our behalf and we most definitely leave out the praise. When was the last time you had praise and worship that wasn't led by the praise team? When was the last time you made a joyful noise on Monday? I know we are all guilty. We have to do better. God hears our prayers. He listens to our requests. We just have to do our part. Say ouch…
On Earth as it is in heaven
Happy New Year. I know New Year’s hits a little different. We are still dealing with the effects of last year’s trauma. Our glasses are definitely a little more than half empty. It’s ok. It’s going to be alright, and this too shall pass. It’s a little hard to believe. We are a bit shell shocked. God is faithful. If you don’t believe me, go look in the mirror. You survived. You made it when you didn’t think you would. You arrived even when the path wasn’t clear. You have scars, but they are evidence that you are healed. Pray these words with me, “on Earth as it is in heaven.” Breathe. Guess what? God made you from the dust of the Earth. You are made from that stuff you sweep out your homes and kick off your shoes. You are created from what you dismiss on a daily basis. Take a moment to marvel at God’s creation….you. Take a moment to recognize your connection to your creator. You have access. You have power. Decree and Declare. Speak life. Speak joy. Speak it in to existence, on Earth as it is in heaven. Amen.
Present
Today we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. So as you open your gifts remember to be present. Be present in each passing moment. Be present for your family. Be present for your friends. Be present today. Recognize the gifts you have been given. You are alive. You are well. You have food. You have shelter. You have your health. You are a gift from God. You are a present. So be one and be a blessing to others. Merry Christmas!