Dying 2 Live...!

Dying 2 Live...!

Saturday, January 22, 2011

ONE!


A nation that is divided is a nation that is on the verge of collapse. Likewise, a city that is divided is a place soon to be run with violence and mayhem. Chaos is inevitable and misery will overtake the society. America may think that this doesn't apply to them but maybe for a Communist nation or one financially deprived. Well, America is becoming more and more divided---Democrat vs. Republican, wealthy elite vs. the disenfranchised poor, Blacks vs. Whites, women vs. men, etc. What's more, much of this divided confusion has leaked over into many of our local churches---the Body of Christ and Kingdom of God. Jesus exclaimed in Mark 3:24 that, "A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand." It's not so much that it "will not" but that it "cannot." It's an impossible feat!

As Christians, we have to learn how to become less selfish and a lot more united. It is shameful that Sunday morning is still the most segregated day of the week, where many churches are separated by culture and race. I just don't get it! The same individual(s) you work with, who claims a relationship with Jesus, you can't seem to worship with. Or, on weekends, you can't even associate with them because they make less money a year than you and your counterparts. Maybe, they are janitors and you're a doctor. The interesting thing about heaven, that we know of, is that it will be filled with people from various backgrounds, races, cultures, income levels, and all other walks of life---who are in love with Jesus.

Instead of seeing individuals in black or white, by an idolized status, or by some additional preference we need to see others by love. Better yet, we need to see others by RED---The Blood of Jesus---the epitome of LOVE. With this outlook, people can notice the truth of what it means to be ONE!

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Heart That Forgives


By now, many have heard of Kevin Levar's hit song "A Heart that Forgives." What's different about his song is, not the lyrical arrangements or melodious feel but, the authenticity of its message. Forgiveness is a touchy subject, even for Christians. Surprising to many, the church is often a place where people become quickly hurt and easily offended. Grudges tend to get set in stone and bitterness becomes a way of life. Individuals refuse to sit next to their counterparts, couples fuss in the parking lot, and some preachers spew out angry venom at their members for not catering to their wishes.

Regardless, the church becomes a mere battle ground, not against the devil or demons, but against each other. It's just the wounds are much more internal than external. We can draft a laundry list of reasons for this occurence. But, our time may be more useful with drafting only three words...not "I love you" but "I FORGIVE YOU." This is not the easiest thing to do but it's one of the most freeing things that can be done. The word of God has made it vitally clear that forgiveness is not an option but a required action (Matthew 18). Instead of forgiving out of duty, one should forgive out of choice. Actually, we should be QUICK to forgive...knowing HOW MUCH WE'VE BEEN FORGIVEN!

God didn't have to send His son to redeem sinful mankind. Jesus didn't have to DIE on a rugged cross for our sins, and the Holy Spirit didn't have to comfort us in our times of need. Thankfully, THEY WILLFULLY CHOSE to forgive, love, and care for us inspite of ourselves. Wow, what great love...we owe them so much...TOO BIG of a debt to repay! So, the next time you want to think about holding hate and bitterness toward someone for what they did to you---DON'T!

When you get a chance purchase Kevin Levar's cd at this site, you'll be ever grateful you did!