Have you downloaded our 2015 Bible Reading Plan? Join us this year as we focus of the theme: Live Courageously

Reflection of His Glory

First, I want to thank everyone for all wisdom and insights. I can admit I have never been exposed to that much truth in one week since I’ve been a Christian. Even though people came from different perspectives, I realized it was all truth. Nonetheless, though divine truth is intolerant, and God’s wisdom is vast, it leaves room for multiple perspectives.

From the responses, I realize that everyone is a firm believer that Jesus is Lord and Savior, and all works of justification come directly from Him. “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

The general consensus was in regards to works, it is a separate entity of our salvation, but rather the result of it. And since we are all positioned in Christ, our life, in turn should produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, gentleness, etc.

Let me give you the reason I started this Q&A. I was getting gas at Wawa and as I was walking into the building to grab a cup of coffee. I heard the sound of a male voice speaking aggressively about the Gospel of Jesus. My first thought was, Wow, I should be doing more of this! Secondly, I thought perhaps I should join in. I decided to let him go and went about my business. As I went to leave, the man continued to shout, waving his hands excitedly. However, I caught a glimpse of what he was holding – two packs of cigarettes.

My first reaction was, “What a poor testimony to a non-believer; to share the Gospel but not reflect that transformational power of turning from sin.” However, I was quickly reminded that I do not always line up completely to the truth in my own walk. Then the verse came to mind that “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.” (1 Corinthians 6:12)

God has granted us a fresh start, a new beginning, allowing us to be the reflection of His glory. Thank you again for your time and the wisdom you have blessed with. Chaplain Juan Mendez is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and serves full-time at America’s Keswick. You can write Juan at jmendez@americaskeswick.org

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Peter 1-3; Jude

Think About This: Jesus Christ went more willingly to the cross than we do to the throne of grace. Thomas Watson

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6