Thinking – James Tippins

There is only one day I have ever truly lived.

Not because I chose it. Not because it aligned with my desires. Not because it brought triumph or peace or even clarity.

But because it was the only day that existed.And that day—this day—is always now.

This is the first claim:Today is the best day of my lifenot because it is pleasurable, successful, or redemptive—but because it is real.

This claim, rightly understood, is not motivational.It is ontological.

It is not about gratitude, though gratitude may rise.It is not about optimism, though joy may follow.It is about the nature of being, the structure of time, and the existential permission to inhabit what is.

The Ontological Priority of the Present

Time, as we experience it, is a construct of consciousness.The past no longer exists. The future has not yet come.Both live only in the mind—memory and anticipation.

What remains?Only this present moment.Not the second, not the minute, but the experience of now.

It is the only condition under which life occurs.Every breath I have ever taken was taken in the now.Every decision. Every failure. Every touch. Every sorrow.

All of them occurred under the singular canopy of presence.This means that the present moment is not just real.It is the only reality I have.

Therefore, if I wish to name the “best” day of my life,it can never be yesterday—it is gone.It can never be tomorrow—it is not yet.It can only be today, for it alone is mine.

To acknowledge this is not to deny memory or future planning.It is to reorient myself to the truth that existence is always immediate.And thus—so is meaning.

The Collapse of Comparison

“Best” is typically a comparative term.We say “best” to imply “better than others.”But how can I compare what is with what no longer exists or does not yet exist?

If I believe today is worse than yesterday, I am comparing a living reality with a memory—which means I am no longer living.If I believe tomorrow will be better than today,I place my hope in fantasy and abandon the only space that can create change.

Comparison, in this way, becomes an instrument of exile.It removes me from now, and with it, from truth.

So when I say:“Today is the best day of my life,”

I am not comparing today with any other day.I am declaring that today is the only day.And the only day is necessarily the best.

Best not by achievement.Best not by emotion.Best by virtue of existence itself.

The Inclusion of Suffering

This is the most radical claim embedded in the mantra:Even on the days I suffer,even in grief, confusion, loneliness, fear—today remains the best day of my life.

Why?Because it is real.

And I would rather live in pain than fantasize in fiction.I would rather feel loss in the real world than experience peace in a dream.I would rather be fully present in devastation than absent in delight.

To say today is the best day is not to deny pain.It is to include it.

To acknowledge that pain, too, belongs.That suffering, too, is sacred—not because it is desired, but because it is true.

And what is “best” if not the moment that demands nothing but our presence,asks nothing but our honesty, and offers nothing but the invitation to be here?

The Rejection of Elsewhere

To declare today as best is to commit to presence.And that commitment is a death sentence for every illusion that tells us joy is elsewhere.

We often live as though happiness is just over the next hill:When I get the job.When the pain stops.When the relationship heals.When I become more.

But happiness built on elsewheres is not happiness.It is a mirage—ever present, never grasped.It is a psychological deferral system for joy.

When I say “today is the best day of my life,” I am putting an end to the search.Not because I have found something perfect.But because I have stopped looking away from what is.

The End of Becoming

Becoming is the great mythology of modern life.We are told to improve, to evolve, to optimize.We are told our current state is not enough.

But becoming is a race without a finish line.It implies that our worth is conditional—dependent on some future version of self that may never arrive.

To say “today is the best day of my life” is to resist the myth of becoming.It is to accept, without qualification, that being is enough.

That the one I am now, in this breath, without edit or upgrade,is already whole.Not static. Not stagnant.But present.And therefore, real.And therefore, worthy.

The Return to Breath

Every time I feel myself slipping into memory, into fantasy, into comparison or judgment—I return to breath.I breathe into now.

Not as a grounding trick but as a recognition of truth.There is no breath that can be taken in the past just as there is no breath that can be stored for tomorrow.

Breath is now, or it is nothing.

So I breathe and say, without needing it to feel good, without needing to believe it emotionally,simply as a claim of alignment:

“Today is the best day of my life.”

And when I say that, I am not offering myself a reward.I am returning to a vow.A vow to reality.A vow to truth.A vow to be nowhere else but here.

The Practice of Staying

To live as if today is the best day of your life is not easy.It will cost you your illusions.It will expose your avoidance.It will confront every fantasy of someday and strip it bare.

But if you stay—If you let yourself be in this day without needing it to prove anything—you will find a depth that time cannot offer.You will find that joy and sorrow are not opposites.They are both companions of the real.You will find that your life was never in your timeline.It was always in your willingness to be here.You will find that peace is not the absence of suffering—it is the end of escape.

And you will know—not with your thoughts, but with your breath—that this day is the best day of your life because it is the only day you are truly alive.

Living Freely Without Fear: A Call to the Church

In the New Testament, the concept of freedom is central to the believer's life. This freedom, as taught by Jesus and the apostles, isn’t just about being released from the bondage of sin; it’s about living in a state of spiritual liberty that reflects the gospel's transformative power. But as we explore this freedom, we must recognize a crucial aspect: true freedom in Christ allows us to live without fear—of each other, of the world, and even of our own failures.

Jesus said in John 8:36, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." This freedom is comprehensive; it’s freedom from sin’s power, freedom from the condemnation of the law, and freedom to live as God intended—joyfully and without fear. Yet, we know that as human beings, we are often entangled in fear. Fear of judgment from others, fear of rejection, fear of failure, and even fear of truly being known. These fears can trap us, keeping us from experiencing the fullness of the freedom Christ promises.

The church, as a community of believers, is meant to be a place where this freedom is lived out collectively. In Galatians 5:13, Paul reminds us, "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." This freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want; it’s about serving one another in love, free from the constraints of fear, suspicion, or hidden agendas. But what happens when fear creeps in?

Fear can lead us to misunderstand or even harm one another, often under the guise of good intentions. We think we’re protecting ourselves or others, but in reality, fear-driven actions can fracture relationships and sow distrust. James 3:16 says, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice." Fear often disguises itself as concern, leading to jealousy, mistrust, and disunity. Instead of embracing the freedom Christ promises, we can become ensnared by these fears, and our relationships within the church suffer as a result.

So how do we combat this? By cultivating an environment where freedom is not just a theological concept, but a lived reality. A church should be a place where people can be themselves without fear of condemnation, where they are free to grow, free to struggle, and free to be vulnerable. This kind of freedom fosters trust, unity, and deep, authentic relationships.

It’s crucial for us to remember that this freedom is rooted in love and trust—trust in God and trust in one another. As 1 John 4:18 tells us, "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love." In a community perfected in love, fear has no place. This doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges or misunderstandings, but it does mean that we approach these challenges from a place of love, grace, and freedom rather than fear.

As a pastor, my heart is to help guard this freedom within our community. I want to be someone who nurtures an environment where you can walk in this freedom confidently—free from fear of judgment, free from fear of rejection, and free to be who God has called you to be. This means fostering open communication, encouraging vulnerability, and continually pointing us all back to the freedom we have in Christ.

We are called to be a people who live freely, not just in theory but in practice—loving one another genuinely, trusting one another deeply, and walking together without fear. My prayer is that we become a community that embodies this freedom, where every person can experience the fullness of life in Christ without the chains of fear holding them back. This is the kind of church I want to be a part of—a church where freedom is our reality, our testimony, and our shared experience.

In the last decade, and more so in the last three years, I've embarked on a path of deep exploration and bold exposition in areas often left uncharted or merely skimmed over by the broader Christian community. I make no apologies for this pursuit. It's a deliberate, intentional dive into the complexities and nuances of living a life rooted in Christ—a path not chosen lightly, but with a fervent desire to understand, to grow, and to challenge not only myself but also those who walk this journey with me.

This exploration is not a rebellion against the foundations of our faith but a quest to deepen our roots in the rich soil of Christ's teachings. As I delve into themes of authenticity in faith, the interplay between our spiritual beliefs and societal engagement, and the freedom found in Christ's sovereignty, my aim is to bring these conversations to the forefront of our collective consciousness. It's through engaging with these challenging topics that we, as a faith community, can grow to be more mindful, more authentic, and more impactful in our walk with Christ.

Together, let us question, seek, and explore the vast dimensions of what it means to be in Christ. Let this not be a journey marked by fear of stepping into the unknown, but rather by the courage to face it head-on, guided by the truth of the Gospel. As we engage in this way, let us inspire one another toward a deeper, more vibrant understanding and practice of our faith.

Exploring the Concept of Authenticity in Faith

Being true to oneself stands as a cornerstone of worship and service, echoing the scriptural call for a heart that is sincere and undivided before God. This authenticity is not merely a personal ideal but a biblical imperative that underpins genuine joy and fulfillment in life. In the pursuit of living authentically, individuals are encouraged to shed pretenses and embrace their true selves in the presence of God, fostering a deeper connection with the divine. Romans 12:9 underscores this by urging, "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good," highlighting the importance of sincerity and truth in one’s faith journey.

Non-Theological Engagement

The dialogue extends beyond the traditional confines of theology, scripture, or Christ, venturing into realms that, while seemingly secular, deeply resonate with a Christian worldview. This approach underscores the interconnectedness of faith with all life aspects, affirming the relevance of Christian principles in addressing a broad spectrum of topics from daily challenges to global issues. Acts 17:28 illustrates this interconnectedness: "In him we live and move and have our being," reminding us that God’s presence and influence permeate every aspect of our existence.

The Church and Cultural Engagement

A critical examination of the church's role vis-à-vis the wider world reveals a pressing need for leaders and congregations alike to step beyond the familiar territory of "Christian life." This venture involves not just a passive observation but an active, informed engagement with cultural and societal dynamics. Such a stance demands a robust critique of the church's current engagement strategies, urging a shift towards a more Jesus-centric understanding and interaction with the world. Romans 12:2 challenges the church to this transformative engagement: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Freedom and Sovereignty in Christ

The recognition of divine sovereignty serves as a liberating force, granting believers the freedom to explore and express their faith across various domains of life. This freedom, rooted in an understanding of God's ultimate authority and purpose, encourages a bold and fearless engagement with the world, unshackled by the constraints of fear or conformity. Galatians 5:1 proclaims this freedom: "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery," highlighting the liberating power of Christ’s sovereignty over our lives.

Christianity Beyond American Cultural Norms

The American church's interpretation and application of Christianity are called into question, inviting a discerning look at the disparities between the historic mission of Jesus and the practices of the contemporary church. This inquiry advocates for a Christianity that transcends American cultural norms, seeking a return to the radical, boundary-crossing nature of Jesus' ministry. Philippians 3:20 reminds us of our true citizenship: "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ," urging Christians to align their lives with the values of Christ’s kingdom rather than the prevailing cultural norms.

Fearlessness in Faith

The call to a fearless faith emphasizes the importance of approaching even the most taboo or avoided subjects with courage and conviction. This fearlessness is underpinned by a clear conscience and a secure identity in Christ, enabling believers to explore and discuss challenging topics without compromising their faith. 1 John 4:18 addresses this fearlessness: "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love," encouraging believers to engage boldly in love and truth.

Critical Examination of Christian Life

There is an urgent need for introspection within the Christian community, prompting a critical examination of its practices, beliefs, and societal engagement. This reflective process is vital for ensuring that the lived experience of faith is not only authentic but also aligned with the teachings and example of Christ. 2 Corinthians 13:5 calls for such examination: "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves," challenging believers to continually assess and align their lives with their faith commitments.

Engagement with Difficult Topics

Engaging with topics often sidelined by mainstream Christian discourse is essential for a faith that speaks to the complexities of contemporary life. By challenging conventional boundaries and fostering open dialogue, believers can confront and grapple with the pressing issues facing society and the church today. Ephesians 5:11 encourages this engagement: "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them," advocating for a proactive stance in addressing and illuminating difficult issues.

Spiritual and Intellectual Freedom

The Christian journey is marked by a profound sense of spiritual and intellectual freedom, empowering individuals to engage with all life's aspects from a position of faith. This freedom stands in opposition to the notion of control, advocating for an expansive view of Christianity that embraces inquiry, exploration, and critical thought. Galatians 5:13 encapsulates this freedom: "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another," highlighting the balance between freedom and service in the Christian life.

Reader Engagement and Response

The engagement with challenging content is not limited to personal contemplation but extends to the broader community's reaction and interaction. This dynamic between the author's [my] intentions and the audience's reception highlights the participatory nature of faith exploration, where diverse perspectives and experiences contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of Christian living. Colossians 4:6 advises on this interaction: "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person," emphasizing the importance of grace, wisdom, and discernment in our engagements and responses.

These themes collectively form a comprehensive framework for exploring and living out a faith that is deeply rooted in authenticity, engagement, and critical thought. They invite a reexamination of traditional practices and beliefs, urging a more expansive, inclusive approach to understanding and applying Christian principles in the modern world.