LOOKING UP AND FINDING IMMEASURABLE JOY BEYOND THE NOISE 

The Word for today is a reflection on Romans 15, Verse 13... 

 As we look out onto the world in real time, we see a growing worldwide fear, political unrest, growing climate change, and catastrophes that swirl all around us. It’s EASY to be consumed by worry.  Yet, when we turn to God and trust the Holy Spirit, our hearts miraculously rise above that menacing noise overflowing with joy and a steadfast hope. 

In today's reflection, Paul’s words shine.  We can overflow with hope even when fear and uncertainty swirls all around us. Paul then blesses the believers with a prayer that produces not just an ordinary joy, but an overflowing sense of hope and excitement in God.  It is through trust that we, the dear children of God, open ourselves up to the miraculous and transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. 

 There, we are completely filled and overflowing with confident hope. This radiant hope that fills us overflows into the lives of others. What a way to live! When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we are naturally joyful. And this joy that wholly carries the presence of God, seeps into the lives of others. It touches them, heals them, and blesses them. What a Gift. Use it. It is this precious gift of God that provides a real and viable way to live happily every day, especially in troubling times. 

Dear Father, fill me with so much joy and peace that it overflows into the lives of others. Amen 

Imagine a storm-stricken land where most plants have withered away, and only a few strong, faithful trees, a Golden protective canopy arises-shimmering sunlight by day, and glowing like a warm fire by night shielding them from harm and nurturing new growth. The strongest branch in the center shines brightest, promising new life and hope. This image captures both the judgement and God's purification and protection.

How wonderful the Lord our God, who creates a literal canopy of protection for the faithful!

As our world is changing faster than ever before, NOW is the time to change our focus, ( if you haven't already) and seek shelter in the One who will never leave us, and who will always raise us up! It is there in our higher mind that we are truly happy and at peace~

In this episode, we dive into Matthew 14 to explore how FAITH and TRUST can and will lift us above fear. Fear paralyses, Faith/Trust literally LIFTS us out of fear's suffocating grip! Even in the darkest storms of life, I urge you to keep your eyes on Jesus. Keep your focus on Him. This small act of faith has the Power to transform your thoughts. Discover the power of keeping your eyes on Jesus, stepping out of the boat, and trusting His presence during the "fourth watch"-when hope feels distant, but rescue is ever so near. When Jesus gazed into the Heavens during the Miracle of the Fishes and Loaves, he held the basket of fish and looking up, TRUSTED that it was enough! Oh, Holy Spirit enable me to grow my faith and Trust. Amen

Circumstances may shift; God's goodness doesn't. Isn't it a gift that when things go awry, - when crops fail, the plans unravel, and the path gets steep, we can still rejoice in the Lord? Habakkuk reminds us that faith isn't about ignoring hardship; it's about anchoring our joy in the unshakeable character of God.  In today's humble Godcast we explore how FAITH LIFTS US ABOVE FEAR. Fear not when circumstances seem unsteady. We need but turn our focus to the One who Always walks with us. Be encouraged! God has given us "FEET LIKE A DEER." 

In the words of metaphysical teacher; Florence Scovel Shinn,

"I am unmoved by circumstances; therefore, circumstances Move."

"He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, I am not the Messiah." -John 1:20 (NIV)

In an age where everyone is building a "personal brand," John the Baptist shows us a radical alternative:

He knew who he was, because he knew what he was not. John had a powerful following. Crowds gathered. Leaders came to question him. He had every opportunity to take the spotlight, to soak in praise, to elevate his name.  When asked if he was the Messiah, he answered -"I am not." When asked if he was Elijah, He answered, -"I am not."  when they asked: "Are you a prophet?" Again, He answered "no." 

John sets an example for us all. John knows instinctually who he is. He also knows who he is not.  From this comes great freedom and liberation to be what he is; a messenger. John embraces his position with humility. God has imbued us all with our own unique gifts. Recognizing them and us as stewards of those gifts, is the first step in being truly authentic. What gifts has God gifted you with? Using them IS your joy, your liberation, and your purpose! 

Can you imagine the amazement of the Apostles Peter, James, and John as they witnessed Jesus Christ shining in Divine glory as they saw HIM speaking with Moses and Elijah? Their reactions were many. A combination of awe, and overwhelming fear. The divine moment stunned them into fear. But there is a wonderful promise for you and I through the Transfiguration, and that is its promise. If you belong to Jesus, your story doesn't end in struggle-it ends in transformation and glory. Right now, God is shaping you for something eternal and radiant.

                Remember this: God doesn't waste our pain. The valleys of life are preparation for the glory to come. 

                                      Mark 9:7 "This is my SON, whom I love. Listen to him."

Can you imagine the scene as told by Luke, the author of Acts 3? Peter and John go the temple around 3PM, the hour of prayer. There they encounter a man who has been lame from birth begging for money. The apostle Peter offers the man something much more valuable than the money he asks for. Peter offers him healing "in the name of Jesus Christ." Peter takes the man's hand and immediately the man HEALED! Walking, leaping and praising God. Now the crowd were astonished! They were amazed at what has happened. The Power Behind the Miracle is not Peter, who has healed by the man, nor was it John who was there with Peter, but through Faith in Jesus's name. Oftentimes we find ourselves in difficulty, but we are not just encouraged but commanded to put our faith in the assurances of Jesus Christ. Take heed dear ones, and remember that the Holy Spirit is within you, your constant companion, and is always guiding you. The Holy Spirit is God's gift to you as you journey through this life! Pray to the Spirit, ask Him to lead you out of your circumstances. Listen, and be at peace for the Spirit will show you the way. It could be direct as with the healing of the lame man, or as simple as Harvey and his wife in today's reflection where grace and healing was sent directly through friends. Like a stream carving its way over rocks, and forging its way to make its path, so does the Holy Spirit do for us. I am So Grateful. You?