John 13:35

³⁵ By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

I’m reading a wonderful book titled Wherever the River Runs by Kelly Minter. In this book, the author reignites her love for Jesus and His people while traveling through Brazil. I am not here to do a book review; however, I do strongly encourage you to pick up a copy and dive into the deep waters of this beautiful book and watch your church walls be turned inside out!

On one hand, I am pained, deeply, by the blinded consciousness of our fellow Christians (me included) who sit comfortably in climate controlled churches yet complain that some new visitor is sitting in OUR spot. Better yet, how in the world could someone place THOSE flowers in the front of the sanctuary because they are simply tacky. Even more, churches have abandoned the only way to worship when they gave up their hymnals.

[Sting a bit?]

After reading this book, I would say more beautiful conviction follows. So let’s dig deeper. As Christians, I am sure we are entitled to go back and express our deepest anger to the coffee barista who failed to not only put the extra shot of expresso in our latte but failed to substitute almond milk for whole milk costing us to lose points on our diet challenge at the exclusive fitness center. Hum, actually, I don’t think that was mentioned in God’s Word as permissible behavior for His children. Do I hear entitlement? Do I sense a pretentious spirit? Do I hear pride?

O.K.! I hear you. The shock factor is over. Yet, the truth is still the same. The revelations from this book have unveiled some very good points about our culture, lifestyle, and Christian walk. The truth is…God wants us to love Him and to love others; the rest falls into place.

For 2019, I am seeking relationships that are purposeful and on point for God’s kingdom. This may look different than your goals. We most certainly are not here to compare. I am seeking opportunities to make an impact by simply listening and doing. This only comes from constant prayer and communion with the Holy Spirit.

My prayer for you is to grow in love, not just fall in love, with your Maker. In that, grow in faith, passion, expectation, love, kindness, patience, peace, and gentleness. Does this mean that you will remain in your four-walls? NO! Does this mean that you won’t explore? NO! How else did Kelly Minter get on a boat in the middle of the Amazon? Does this mean that you are bound by only one building? NO! The hurting are waiting outside.

~The greatest mask remains seated, cloaked, unmoved, and divisive.

~Built, sharpen, grow, develop…THEN BLOOM!

Questions:

Where are you and why?

Where are you going and why?

Who is holding you back?

Thankful,

Christian Armetta