Posts

The Upper Room: A Call to a Higher Level of Faith

Image
 Pr. Alexandre Alves When Jesus sent Peter and John to prepare for the Passover, He instructed them to find a man carrying a jar of water who would lead them to a furnished upper room (Luke 22:10-12). This was no ordinary place—it was a space already prepared, a place of divine appointment. The upper room represents more than just a physical location; it symbolizes a spiritual elevation, a call to a deeper level of intimacy with God. A Prepared Space for a Divine Encounter The upper room was not empty or incomplete—it was furnished, ready to receive Jesus and His disciples. This detail is significant. It reminds us that when God calls us, He has already prepared the way. Often, we hesitate to step forward because we cannot see the full picture, but Jesus shows us that He is ahead of us, orchestrating every detail. Like Peter and John, we are called to obey even when we don’t fully understand. Trusting God means walking in faith, believing that what He has prepared is greater than w...
Post a Comment
Read more

Building Living Bridges: Lessons of Patience and Perseverance in the Christian Journey

Image
In northeastern India, the Khasi and Jaintia communities practice the impressive art of building living bridges using the roots of the rubber fig tree ( Ficus elastica ). These bridges are not quick constructions; they are the result of patience, planning, and an intergenerational commitment to sustainability. The roots, guided by bamboo structures, take about five years to form an initial crossing and continue to be strengthened over decades, growing increasingly resilient. This fascinating practice offers profound spiritual lessons about building, perseverance, and maturity in faith . Patience and Building Christian Character Just as these bridges require years of cultivation and constant care, our Christian life is a journey of continuous growth . God calls us to develop a character that reflects the image of Christ, a transformation that does not happen instantly. James 1:4 encourages us: "Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lackin...
Post a Comment
Read more

Trusting in God's Plan

Image
  Life often presents us with challenges that leave us questioning the path ahead. Unexpected pain, unanswered prayers, and unfulfilled dreams can shake our confidence and leave us wondering about the plans of God. Yet, Romans 8:28 reminds us of a profound truth: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse serves as an anchor for believers navigating the uncertainties of life. The Mystery of God’s Plans God’s purposes often defy human understanding. Isaiah 55:8-9 declares, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Trusting in God’s purposes requires humility, acknowledging that His wisdom far surpasses our own. While we may not always see the full picture, we can rest assured that God is sovereign and faithful. Pain as a Pathwa...
Post a Comment
Read more

Consciousness of the Presence of God

Image
 The presence of God is a constant reality in the lives of Christians, but we can often become distracted by daily demands and forget to live in full awareness that He is with us. This detachment from the perception of divine presence can weaken our faith and lead us to act as if we are alone. However, God has given us the Holy Spirit, who not only seals us as His property but also guides, comforts, and reminds us that we belong to Him. The Seal of the Holy Spirit: Guarantee and Presence In Romans 8:23 , we read about the “firstfruits of the Spirit,” which guarantee our adoption as children of God and our final redemption. This seal of the Spirit is a mark of divine ownership that assures us of protection, destiny, and authenticity as God’s people. Yet, the seal is more than a future guarantee; it is also a daily reminder that God is present in our lives. In Jeremiah 32 , the prophet is instructed to buy land in Anathoth, seal the deed, and place it in a clay jar. This act symboliz...
Post a Comment
Read more

Unity and Restoration

Image
In the Christian journey, we all face moments of pain, exhaustion, and deep wounds—whether emotional, spiritual, or even physical. As soldiers of the Kingdom, we are in a continuous battle, and at times, the weight of these struggles can cause us to stumble. Just as in the armed forces, when a recruit becomes a soldier, there is a symbolic exchange of headgear, representing their readiness, competence, and belonging to the corps. In God's Kingdom, this spiritual transition also requires healing, restoration, and a renewal of purpose. What should we do when our wounds leave us unable to move forward? The answer lies in God’s restoring love and the mission of the Body of Christ to never leave behind a "wounded soldier." Acknowledging the Wounds The first step to healing is recognizing the wounds and bringing them into the light of God's presence. Often, we force ourselves to appear strong, ignoring our pain and vulnerabilities. However, God does not expect us to carry t...
Post a Comment
Read more

The Transformative Encounter at Jacob's Well

Image
  The story of the Samaritan Woman in John 4 is much deeper than just a narrative about someone casually meeting Jesus. When we look closely, we see elements that challenge traditional interpretations and reveal the complexity and transformative power of an encounter with Christ. Let’s explore some key aspects of this passage. The Meeting at the Well The biblical text shows Jesus deliberately traveling through Samaria, something unusual for a Jew at that time. He stops at Jacob's well and, at noon, meets this woman. The time she goes to draw water already gives us clues about her social context. Traditionally, women went to the well early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. Going at noon suggests she wanted to avoid people, perhaps due to shame or social isolation. However, by initiating the conversation, Jesus breaks not only cultural barriers but also spiritual ones. The simple act of asking a Samaritan woman for water was radical. In the origina...
Post a Comment
Read more

Melchizedek: A Unique and Prophetic Figure

Image
When we analyze Scripture, the name Melchizedek stands out as one of the Bible's most enigmatic figures. He appears briefly, yet with a depth that challenges the reader to grasp his theological significance. Was Melchizedek merely a historical person, or did he represent something greater in God’s divine plan? Historical Context Melchizedek is first mentioned in Genesis 14:18-20, shortly after Abraham wins a battle to rescue his nephew Lot. He is introduced as the "King of Salem" and "Priest of God Most High." In this encounter, Melchizedek brings bread and wine, blesses Abraham, and receives a tithe of everything from him. His brief mention in Genesis is rich in symbolism and raises important questions: How did he become a priest? And why is he unconnected to the Levitical lineage, which would only be established much later? Melchizedek as a Prophecy of the Messiah In Psalm 110:4, David prophesies about the Messiah: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Me...
Post a Comment
Read more