Posted by: mhaley
on Oct 18, 2011
"You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." Matthew 5:13-16
God created us for relationships. Within those relationships, we are called to be salt and light--the flavor and illumination of God's love that has been extended to us. When we respond to the love of God found in Jesus, we become partakers in the Common Story. We share and tell our part of the Story, as well as advance God's kingdom in this world through the cultivating of other vibrant relationships. This is the context in which God has called his Church--the people of God--to grow in connection to Christ.
Posted by: mhaley
on Nov 02, 2010
God is always ready to help; of course we have to use our faith in order to please him. I believe it is our faith that moves the hand of God; not really our needs, although He cares greatly. Faith believes God is real, loving, and good. We all must choose how we will respond to God's invitation to a life of faith. It will stretch your natural understanding of God if you choose to exercise your faith. God's ways and thoughts are higher. He delights in revealing His love in new and fresh ways.
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 10, 2010
Do you have a tendency to worry about things? Many people use the word "worry" as a descriptive in conversations. A friend might say, "I'm just worried about such and such..." Do your thoughts venture toward concerns for things still ahead? If so, Jesus has an answer for you.
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 09, 2010
Our level of courage will determine whether or not we "live big." Most people say they want to courageously walk through new doors of opportunity and embrace change, but few will ever make the decision to do so. Change is frightening. Safety calls to us and tries to keep us from the bigger and deeper life God has prepared for those who love Him. God rewards our faith-filled lives; a desire for safety tries to stand in the way of our faith.
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 06, 2010
It takes a courageous spirit to live among the challenges of our days, doesn't it? The spirit of the world intends to lead and expects us to obediently follow; demands our worship. Courageous decisions are in demand if we are going to be Christ followers. If Christ calls us to take a courageous stand for Him, we need to get ready for war. Expect it. The battle with fear is just around the corner and it is a doozy!
