Stop Going to Church: Start Being the Church

Posted on by marc ulrich

Have you ever felt like you’re just going through the motions, attending church every Sunday, but not really experiencing any change in your life? You’re not alone. Many of us have been there, wondering if simply going to church is enough. But what if I told you that Jesus calls us to something greater? What if the real challenge is not just to attend church, but to be the church in our everyday lives?

In a recent sermon, we explored this idea of redefining what it means to be part of the church. The main point? Our highest calling isn’t just to sit in a pew for an hour each week. It’s to actively live out our faith, seeking the kingdom of God and transforming the world around us. So, how do we do that? Let’s dive in.

Understanding the True Meaning of Church

The word “church” often brings to mind images of buildings, steeples, and Sunday services. But when Jesus spoke of building His church, He used the term “ecclesia,” which means a called-out assembly or community. It’s not about the physical structure; it’s about the people. You and I are the church, and we’re called to live out our faith beyond the walls of a building.

Living Out the Kingdom

Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18). Our role is not to build the church; that’s Jesus’ job. Our role is to seek the kingdom of God in our daily lives. This means living by the ethics of the kingdom, showing love, grace, and mercy to those around us, and seeking reconciliation in our relationships.

The Power of Reconciliation

The story of Onesimus and Philemon from the Bible is a powerful example of reconciliation. Onesimus, a runaway slave, was encouraged by Paul to return to his master, Philemon, and seek forgiveness. Paul urged Philemon to welcome Onesimus back not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. This act of reconciliation transformed their relationship and demonstrated the power of living out the kingdom.

Taking Action: Be the Church

So, what does this mean for you? How can you start being the church today? Here are a few steps to consider:

  1. Seek Reconciliation: Is there someone in your life you need to reconcile with? Take the first step towards healing that relationship.
  2. Live Out Your Faith: Look for opportunities to show love and kindness in your everyday interactions. Whether it’s at work, school, or home, be a reflection of Jesus’ love.
  3. Engage in Community: Church isn’t just a Sunday event. Get involved in a small group or community service project. Build relationships with others who are also seeking to live out their faith.
  4. Pray for Guidance: Ask God to show you how you can be the church in your unique context. Listen for His guidance and be open to where He leads you.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants us to be active participants in His kingdom, not just passive attendees. What will you do this week to start being the church? How will you seek the kingdom in your life and the lives of those around you? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the incredible transformation Jesus wants for you.

Prayer

Jesus, thank You for calling us to be part of Your church. Help us to live out our faith in meaningful ways, seeking Your kingdom and showing love to those around us. Guide us in our relationships and give us the courage to seek reconciliation where it’s needed. May we be a reflection of Your grace and mercy in all that we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Embracing the Journey: Understanding Sin and God’s Purpose for Our Lives

Posted on by marc ulrich

As we approach Easter, a time of reflection and renewal, many of us find ourselves contemplating our next steps in faith. For some, this might mean taking the significant step of baptism, a public declaration of faith and commitment to Jesus. As we prepare for this sacred season, it’s essential to delve deeper into the foundational aspects of our faith, particularly the concept of sin and God’s purpose for our lives.

Starting at the Beginning

In our recent sermon series, we’ve been exploring the importance of starting at the right place to understand the bigger picture of God’s story. Last week, we left off in the Garden of Eden, where God delighted in His creation, calling it “very good.” This week, we ventured into Genesis 3, where the narrative takes a pivotal turn with the introduction of the serpent and the fall of humanity.

The Deception and the Fall

The serpent’s question to Eve, “Did God really say?” echoes through history, challenging us to discern which voices we choose to listen to. This moment in the garden wasn’t just about a piece of fruit; it was about trust, obedience, and the consequences of stepping outside God’s generous boundaries. When Adam and Eve chose to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, they unleashed a cascade of alienation—between themselves and God, within their own identities, and with the world around them.

Understanding Sin

Sin is a term we often hear in church, but what does it truly mean? In the Bible, sin is described in various ways: missing the mark (khata in Hebrew), iniquity (avon), and transgression (pasha). These terms highlight the different dimensions of sin, from failing to love God and others to breaking trust and introducing crookedness into what was once straight.

God’s Response to Sin

Despite the gravity of sin, the Bible reveals a God who is compassionate, gracious, and slow to anger. In Exodus 34, God describes Himself as abounding in love and faithfulness, forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin. Yet, He also holds the guilty accountable, balancing justice with mercy. This duality challenges us to understand that while God is loving, He is also just, and there are consequences for our actions.

Living with Purpose

Every time we choose sin, we disconnect from God’s purpose for our lives. Yet, God, in His infinite patience, offers us a way back. He calls us to live lives of holiness, set apart for His purposes. This journey isn’t about achieving perfection but about aligning our lives with His will, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out.

Reflecting on Our Journey

As we sit in the weight of our sin, it’s crucial to ask the Holy Spirit, “What do you want from me now?” This question invites us to reflect on our lives, acknowledge our shortcomings, and seek God’s guidance for the path ahead. While we may feel the burden of our mistakes, we are reminded that there is hope—a hope that will be fully revealed in the story of Easter.

Conclusion

As we continue this journey towards Easter, let us embrace the opportunity to understand our sin, recognize God’s purpose for our lives, and take steps towards living in alignment with His will. Whether through baptism or personal reflection, may we find the courage to trust in God’s generous love and step into the fullness of life He offers.

Discovering God’s Delight in You

Posted on by marc ulrich

You might wonder why God would care about you or what His plan is for your life. If you’ve ever felt like you’re just going through the motions, unsure of your purpose, you’re not alone. Many of us have asked, “Why would God love me?” or “What does He want from me?” As we approach Easter, it’s a perfect time to explore these questions and understand the profound truth that God delights in you. This isn’t just a feel-good statement; it’s a foundational truth that can transform how you see yourself and your relationship with God.

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth, and with it, He created you in His image. This isn’t just a poetic statement; it’s a declaration of your inherent value and purpose. You are not an accident or a mistake. You are a masterpiece, crafted with intention and love. Understanding this can change everything. It means that God doesn’t just tolerate you; He delights in you. He sees your potential and invites you to partner with Him in this world.

Understanding Your Purpose

  1. God’s Love and Delight: At the core of creation is the truth that God loves and delights in His creation, including you. This love is not conditional on your performance or achievements. It’s a love that exists because you are made in His image. This means that no matter where you are in life, God sees you as valuable and worthy of His love.
  2. The Role of Work and Rest: God designed work and rest as integral parts of life. Work is not a punishment but a way to engage with the world and fulfill your potential. Rest, or Sabbath, is a time to enjoy what God has created and to recharge. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to earn God’s love through your efforts. Instead, you can rest in the knowledge that you are already loved.
  3. Interdependence and Community: God created us to live in community, to lean on each other and support one another. This interdependence is a reflection of God’s design for humanity. Whether you’re married, single, or somewhere in between, you are part of a larger community that reflects God’s love and purpose.

Taking the Next Step

So, what does this mean for you? It means that you have the opportunity to live out your purpose with confidence, knowing that God is with you. You can approach your work, relationships, and challenges with the assurance that you are not alone. God is inviting you to partner with Him, to explore the potential He has placed within you, and to make a difference in the world.

Ask yourself: How can I live out this truth in my daily life? What steps can I take to embrace God’s love and delight in me? Maybe it’s taking time to rest and reflect on God’s goodness. Perhaps it’s reaching out to someone in your community to offer support or ask for help. Whatever it is, know that God is with you, cheering you on every step of the way.

Prayer

God, thank You for creating us in Your image and for delighting in us. Help us to understand and embrace our purpose, knowing that we are loved and valued by You. Guide us as we seek to live out this truth in our daily lives, and give us the courage to take the next step in following You. Amen.

Seeing the World Through a Good Eye

Posted on by marc ulrich

You might wonder why Jesus’ teachings sometimes seem cryptic or hard to apply to our everyday lives. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenges us to see the world differently, to live with a “good eye”—a perspective of generosity and trust in God’s provision. But what does that mean for you today? How can you apply this ancient wisdom to your modern life? Let’s dive into what it means to have a good eye and how it can transform your life.

The main point of the sermon is about adopting a perspective of abundance and trust in God, rather than one of scarcity and self-reliance. Jesus teaches us that where our treasure is, there our heart will be also. This isn’t just about money; it’s about how we view the world and our place in it. Are we hoarding our blessings, or are we using them to bless others? Are we living in fear and worry, or are we trusting that God will provide for us?

Understanding the Good Eye

A “good eye” in biblical terms means seeing the world with generosity and trust. It’s about believing that there is enough for everyone and that God will provide for our needs. This perspective is rooted in the idea that God is a loving Father who cares for us and wants us to live abundantly. When we have a good eye, we are free to be generous, knowing that our needs will be met.

On the other hand, a “bad eye” is stingy and self-serving. It sees the world as a place of scarcity, where we must hoard our resources and protect ourselves. This perspective leads to worry, anxiety, and judgment of others. It keeps us from experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for us.

Living with a Good Eye

So, how can you cultivate a good eye in your life? Here are a few steps you can take:

  1. Trust in God’s Provision: Remind yourself daily that God knows your needs and will provide for you. Reflect on the ways He has been faithful in the past.
  2. Be Generous: Look for opportunities to bless others with your time, resources, and talents. Remember, you are blessed to be a blessing.
  3. Reduce Worry: When you find yourself worrying, take a moment to pray and release your concerns to God. Trust that He is in control.
  4. Practice Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal and write down things you are thankful for each day. This will help shift your focus from scarcity to abundance.
  5. Engage in Community: Surround yourself with people who encourage you to live generously and trust in God’s provision.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants you to live with a good eye, trusting in His provision and being generous with what you have. What will you do this week to cultivate a good eye? Will you choose to trust God and live generously, or will you continue to live in fear and worry? The choice is yours, but remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the abundant life Jesus wants for you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your abundant provision and love. Help us to see the world through a good eye, trusting in Your care and being generous with what we have. Teach us to release our worries to You and to live in the freedom of Your grace. May our lives be a reflection of Your generosity and love. Amen.

Embracing the Lord’s Prayer: A Journey of Communal Faith and Personal Transformation

Posted on by marc ulrich

In today’s fast-paced world, where individualism often takes precedence, the teachings of Jesus in the Lord’s Prayer offer a refreshing call to communal faith and personal transformation. As we delve into Matthew 6:9-15, we uncover profound insights that challenge our cultural norms and invite us into a deeper relationship with God and each other.

The Communal Nature of Prayer

The opening word of the Lord’s Prayer, “Our,” sets the tone for a collective journey. Jesus assumes that His followers will pray together, emphasizing the importance of community in our spiritual lives. In a culture that often values individualism and self-reliance, this call to communal prayer is countercultural. It reminds us that our faith is not meant to be lived in isolation but in the company of fellow believers, supporting and uplifting one another.

Understanding God as Our Father

Addressing God as “Our Father” can be challenging for those with difficult earthly father experiences. However, it’s crucial to separate our understanding of God from our human experiences. God, as our Heavenly Father, is perfect in love and care. He knows our struggles, desires, and needs, and He invites us to trust Him fully. This relationship with God as Father is foundational to our faith, shaping how we view ourselves and the world around us.

Submitting to God’s Will

“Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” is a powerful declaration of surrender. It challenges us to lay down our personal agendas and align ourselves with God’s purposes. In a society that often prioritizes personal happiness and freedom, submitting to God’s will can be difficult. Yet, it is through this submission that we find true freedom and fulfillment. Jesus Himself modeled this in His journey to the cross, demonstrating the beauty of obedience to the Father’s will.

The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a central theme in the Lord’s Prayer, and it is both liberating and challenging. Jesus teaches that our forgiveness from God is linked to our willingness to forgive others. This is not an easy task, especially when we have been deeply hurt. However, forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves, releasing the burden of revenge and allowing God’s healing to flow through us. It is a step towards reconciliation and peace, both with others and within ourselves.

Resisting Temptation and Embracing Deliverance

In a world filled with temptations, Jesus’ prayer for deliverance from the evil one is a reminder of our need for God’s protection and strength. Temptation is not sin, but it is a call to rely on God’s Word and Spirit to resist it. By putting on the full armor of God, as Paul describes in Ephesians 6, we stand firm against the enemy’s schemes, trusting in God’s power to deliver us.

Living Out the Lord’s Prayer

As we incorporate the Lord’s Prayer into our daily lives, we are invited to experience its transformative power. Praying this prayer three times a day, as early Christians did, can help us stay connected to God’s will and keep our hearts aligned with His purposes. It reminds us to seek God’s provision, forgive others, and resist the temptations that seek to entangle us.

In conclusion, the Lord’s Prayer is not just a set of words to recite; it is a guide for living a life of faith, community, and transformation. As we embrace its teachings, we find ourselves drawn closer to God and to one another, experiencing the fullness of life that Jesus promised. Let us commit to praying this prayer with sincerity and openness, allowing it to shape our hearts and guide our steps.

Breaking the Cycle: Becoming the Right Person

Posted on by marc ulrich

Have you ever felt trapped in a cycle of dysfunction, wondering if you can ever break free? You’re not alone. Many of us carry the weight of our past into our present, and it can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you have the power to change. You can break the cycle and become the person God created you to be. This isn’t just about hoping for change; it’s about actively training for it.

In a recent sermon, we explored Jesus’ teachings from Matthew 5:21-30, where He challenges us to look beyond the surface of our actions and examine the intentions of our hearts. Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that requires us to address our anger, our lust, and our relationships with others. It’s not enough to simply avoid murder or adultery; we must also confront the hatred and lust that reside within us. This is where true transformation begins.

The Power of Breaking the Cycle

The main point of the sermon is clear: your past does not have to define your future. You have the agency to change, to break free from the cycles of dysfunction that have held you back. This requires intentionality and effort, but it is possible.

Consider the story shared in the sermon about a journey from dysfunction to healing. It’s a reminder that no matter where you start, God’s grace is sufficient to lead you to a better place. The key is to stop being a victim of your circumstances and start taking responsibility for your life.

Here are some practical steps to help you break the cycle:

  1. Acknowledge Your Past: Understand that your past can explain your present, but it should never be an excuse for your future. Recognize the patterns that have held you back and commit to changing them.
  2. Seek Accountability: Find someone you trust who can hold you accountable. This could be a friend, a mentor, or a counselor. Having someone to walk alongside you can make all the difference.
  3. Embrace God’s Grace: Remember that God’s grace is always available to you. It’s not just about freeing you from the penalty of sin, but also about empowering you to live a new life.
  4. Train for Change: Don’t just hope for transformation; actively train for it. This means reading your Bible, praying, and seeking God’s guidance in every area of your life.
  5. Focus on Becoming the Right Person: Instead of looking for the right person to solve your problems, focus on becoming the right person. This involves developing qualities like patience, kindness, and selflessness.

Conclusion

The journey to breaking the cycle and becoming the right person is not easy, but it is worth it. Jesus wants your whole heart, and He is ready to help you transform your life. So, what will you do this week to take a step towards becoming the person God created you to be? Remember, without taking this step, you’ll miss out on the life Jesus wants for you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and the power to change. Help us to break free from the cycles of dysfunction and become the people You created us to be. Give us the strength to take responsibility for our lives and the courage to seek accountability. May we embrace Your grace and train for transformation, trusting that You are with us every step of the way. Amen.

Embracing the Tension: Living a Holy Life in a Broken World

Posted on by marc ulrich

In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, many of us find ourselves yearning for miracles, for moments where the divine breaks through the mundane. As we sang “I Believe” in our recent service, it became clear that some of us are wrestling with unbelief, even as we hope for the miraculous. This tension between belief and unbelief is something we all face, and it’s a reminder of our need for God’s presence and guidance in our lives.

During the service, we took a moment to stand in solidarity with those seeking miracles, whether in their families, finances, or personal struggles. We prayed for God to be present in these situations, to bring healing, restoration, and grace. It’s a powerful reminder that God is not distant; He desires to be with us, leading us through every challenge.

As we continue our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, we are confronted with a profound question: How should we, as Christians, respond to an evil society? This question is not new. It was the same question faced by the Jewish people in Jesus’ time, and it remains relevant today.

The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5 through 7, offers us guidance. Jesus teaches us not to respond in the ways we might expect. Instead of embracing the corrupt systems of the world or isolating ourselves from them, Jesus calls us to live a life that is holy and set apart, yet fully engaged with the culture around us.

Throughout history, different groups have responded to societal evil in various ways. The Sadducees embraced corruption for power, the Herodians sought compromise, the Essenes fled to isolation, the Zealots chose rebellion, and the Pharisees focused on strict adherence to the law. But Jesus offers a different path—one that involves living in the world but not being of it.

This tension is not easy to navigate. It requires wisdom, discernment, and a deep commitment to following Jesus’ example. We are called to be salt and light, to influence the world around us with the love and truth of Christ. This means engaging with culture, not to conform to it, but to transform it through the power of the Gospel.

In the book “Creative Minority” by John Tyson and Heather Grizzle, the authors discuss the concept of full redemption versus half redemption. Full redemption involves a holistic view of God’s plan for creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. It calls us to seek cultural influence and love society towards Jesus. In contrast, half redemption focuses only on personal salvation, often leading to isolation and a loss of cultural influence.

As we study the Sermon on the Mount, let’s embrace the challenge of living a life that is both holy and culturally engaged. Let’s seek to be a creative minority, influencing the world around us with the hope and redemption found in Christ. This is not about escaping the world but transforming it through the love and power of Jesus.

May we be a people who live out our faith with authenticity and courage, trusting that God is with us, guiding us, and working through us to bring about His kingdom on earth. Let’s commit to this journey together, believing that God has a plan for us and for the world we inhabit.

Walking the Narrow Path: Building a Life on Jesus’ Teachings

Posted on by marc ulrich

Have you ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus? If you’re like many of us, you might feel overwhelmed by the idea of living a life that reflects His teachings. But what if I told you that the journey begins with a few foundational steps that can transform your walk with Christ?

In our recent sermon, we explored the “narrow path” concept and how it relates to living a life rooted in Jesus’ teachings. We discussed the importance of hearing His words and putting them into practice. This is the essence of building a life on a solid foundation, much like the wise man who built his house on the rock.

The Foundation of Following Jesus

The main point of our sermon was clear: to truly follow Jesus, we must actively engage with His teachings and let them shape our lives. This involves cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, experiencing the abundant life He offers, and finding rest in His presence.

  1. Cultivate the Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5 reminds us that the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Ask yourself if these qualities reflect in your life. If not, it’s time to invite the Spirit to work within you.
  2. Experience Abundant Life: Jesus came so that we might have life to the full (John 10:10). Are you living abundantly, or are you stuck in a scarcity mindset? Embrace the fullness of life that Jesus offers by aligning your ways with His.
  3. Find Rest in Jesus: In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus invites us to find rest for our souls. Are you weary and burdened? Take His yoke upon you and learn from Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

Practical Steps to Walk the Narrow Path

To help you take concrete steps in following Jesus, consider these practical actions:

  • Choose Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and challenge you in your faith journey. Community is essential for growth and accountability.
  • Study Scripture: Make it a habit to dive into God’s Word regularly. Use the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) to deepen your understanding and application of the Bible.
  • Prioritize Prayer: Develop a consistent prayer life. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation with God. Take time to listen as much as you speak.
  • Seek Silence and Solitude: In our noisy world, find quiet moments to connect with God. Consider incorporating a Sabbath rest into your routine to recharge spiritually.
  • Engage with Church: Be an active participant in your local church community. Attend services, join small groups, and serve others as your faith grows.

Conclusion

The journey of following Jesus is not about perfection but about progress. As you aim for the target of living a life that reflects His teachings, remember that grace abounds when you fall short. The point is that Jesus wants your whole heart. What will you do this week to give it to Him?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and the teachings that guide us on the narrow path. Help us to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, experience the abundant life You offer, and find rest in Your presence. May we actively engage with Your Word, prioritize prayer, and seek community as we follow You. Give us the strength and wisdom to live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Embracing the Love of God: A Journey Through Luke 2:22-35

Posted on by marc ulrich

As we journey through the Advent season, reflecting on the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, this week we focus on love, as beautifully illustrated in Luke 2:22-35. This passage introduces us to Simeon, a devout man who eagerly awaited the consolation of Israel. His encounter with the infant Jesus in the temple reveals profound truths about God’s love, not just for Israel, but for all nations.

Simeon’s Revelation: A Love for All Nations

Simeon, guided by the Holy Spirit, recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, the salvation prepared in the sight of all nations. This revelation challenges the Jewish expectation of a Messiah who would deliver them from oppression. Instead, Simeon sees a Savior for all people, including those who have oppressed Israel. This universal love is a radical concept, especially for a people who have endured so much suffering.

Luke’s Unique Perspective

It’s fascinating that Luke, a Gentile convert to Judaism, is the only Gospel writer to include this story. As a physician, Luke was likely familiar with the Asclepian temples, centers of healing in the Greco-Roman world. His background as a Gentile and a healer gives him a unique perspective on the inclusivity of God’s love. Luke’s writings emphasize that Jesus’ message is for all people, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

Understanding Love in Scripture

The Bible uses different words to describe love, each with its own depth and nuance. In Hebrew, “ahava” signifies deep affection, while “hesed” denotes loyal love. In Greek, “agape” represents selfless, sacrificial love. These concepts of love are not based on merit but are expressions of God’s character. As recipients of God’s love, we are called to reflect this love in our relationships with others.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son: A Father’s Love

Luke 15 offers a poignant illustration of God’s love through the parable of the prodigal son. The younger son’s request for his inheritance is a profound insult, yet the father grants it, demonstrating a love that defies cultural norms. When the son returns, not out of genuine repentance but necessity, the father runs to him, protecting him from the village’s judgment. This act of love is not contingent on the son’s contrition but is an overflow of the father’s character.

The Challenge of Love

Both the younger and older sons in the parable miss the essence of their father’s love. The younger son seeks to manipulate, while the older son views his relationship with the father as duty-bound. This challenges us to examine our own relationship with God. Do we see God as a means to an end, or do we embrace Him as the ultimate treasure?

Living Out God’s Love

As we navigate the Christmas season, let us be conduits of God’s love, not absorbing the tension and angst around us but reflecting the love we have received. May we embrace the “ahava,” “hesed,” and “agape” of God, allowing it to transform our hearts and our interactions with others.

In this season of love, let us stop running from God’s love and instead, rest in His embrace. As we worship and reflect, may we be reminded of the depth of God’s love for us and be inspired to share that love with the world.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love that reaches beyond our understanding. Help us to embrace Your love fully and reflect it in our lives. May we be transformed by Your “ahava,” “hesed,” and “agape,” and may we share this love with those around us. Amen.

Embracing True Peace: A Journey Through Advent

Posted on by marc ulrich

As we journey through the Advent season, we are reminded of the profound themes of hope, peace, love, and joy. This week, our focus is on peace, a concept that transcends mere absence of conflict and invites us into a deeper, more holistic understanding.

Understanding Peace: Shalom and Eirene

In the English language, peace often implies non-violence or the absence of war. However, the biblical understanding of peace is much richer. In Hebrew, the word “shalom” signifies a state where everything is as it should be, encompassing four key relationships: with God, with others, with creation, and with ourselves. Similarly, the Greek word “eirene” denotes completeness and wholeness, akin to a flawless piece of pottery.

The Biblical Call to Peace

The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 2, reminds us that Jesus Himself is our peace. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He reconciled all things to Himself, making peace through His blood. This peace is not about avoiding difficult conversations or conflicts but about engaging in reconciliation and unity.

The Gospel of Mark: A Narrative of Peace

The Gospel of Mark offers a unique perspective on peace, particularly through the lens of Jesus’ crucifixion. Mark, writing for a Roman audience, uses the narrative to contrast the peace of Christ with the Pax Romana, the Roman peace maintained through power and dominance.

The Coronation of a King

Mark’s account of Jesus’ crucifixion mirrors the Roman coronation ceremony, highlighting Jesus as the true King. From the gathering of the soldiers to the offering of wine mixed with myrrh, each element of the crucifixion narrative parallels the coronation of a Roman emperor. Yet, unlike the emperors, Jesus’ kingship is marked by humility and sacrifice.

A Call to Reflect

As we reflect on this narrative, we are challenged to consider how we seek peace in our own lives. Do we pursue peace through worldly means, or do we embrace the peace offered through the cross? The story of Simon of Cyrene and his sons, Alexander and Rufus, serves as a reminder of the personal impact of Jesus’ sacrifice and the call to live out His peace.

Conclusion: Peace Through the Cross

This Advent season, let us embrace the peace that comes through the cross. As we prepare for communion, may we ask ourselves: Are we following the way of Jesus, or are we seeking peace through other means? Let us dwell in the peace of Christ, allowing it to transform our lives and our relationships.

May this season be a time of deep reflection and renewed commitment to living out the peace of Christ in all areas of our lives.