Second-Mile Christianity

Week of April 19, 2024

“And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.” Matthew 5:41 (NKJV)

Back in the time of Christ, if a Roman Soldier walked up and said carry this load for me by the law, you were required to do so for one mile. Jesus said not to carry it for one mile but to carry it for two. Jesus seems to be saying that if a person asks you to go one mile and you do it, you are only fulfilling what is required by the law. However, if you keep the load and indicate a willingness to go on in service, you surprise and impress others with your loving openness. The minimum does not impress Jesus. He calls His people to keep the load and press on.

What is an example of a practical application of second-mile Christianity? Instead of holding on to unforgiveness in your life because you have been wronged, go the second mile and forgive that person. I am not saying that you have to be in the same relationship, but you don’t hold on to resentment; you forgive. Go on beyond expectations. Give yourself beyond your limit, and you will find the second breath of the Holy Spirit infusing new life in your life.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

Amazing Faith

Week of April 5, 2024 

"And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee." Matthew 8:13

 There were those occasions when Jesus was astonished by other people's faith in Him. In this case of all people, a Roman Centurion asked Jesus to heal his sick servant. Jesus offered to go to his home to heal the man, but the soldier said "Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed."

Many of his people doubted who he was, but here we have a Roman soldier who believed in Jesus' power. So much so that he believed Jesus could heal his servant from a distance. No need to come; just speak the word. His faith amazed Jesus.

The reason the soldier's faith was so strong is because he understood authority. He was in the military. His experience gave him insight into God's authority. He felt like Jesus had the authority to heal his servant or do what needed to be done, even from a distance.

This lesson should teach us to not be another Thomas, Lord, unless I can see and touch the wounds in your hands and sides, I won't believe. No, even from a distance, learn to trust your Lord in all matters. You, too, amaze your Lord with your trust in Him.

God Bless, Pastor Rick

The Resurrection Offers Hope

Week of March 29, 2024

“So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples.” Matthew 28:8

As Easter arrives this weekend we are reminded of the profound significance of this day. It’s a time when hope triumphs our despair, and when life conquers death. The ultimate manifestation of God’s love and power is revealed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In John 20:1-18 we witness the remarkable events surrounding the resurrection of Jesus. Mary Magdalene arriving at the tomb. She finds the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. Confused, she encounters the risen Christ. In that moment her sorrow turns to joy as she realizes that her Lord is alive. Like many you may have found yourself surrounded by circumstances that seem dark and hopeless. You’re maybe facing challenges that threaten to overwhelm you. Remember this, just as Jesus called Mary by name and revealed Himself to her, He also reaches out to us in our moments of doubt and despair.

The resurrection assures us that no situation is beyond the reach of God’s power. There is always reason for hope. As followers of Christ we are called to live in the light of this hope. I hope this Easter we find ourselves trusting in His promises. To do so will bring a calm and peace that you won’t find any other place.

God Bless, Pastor Rick