One Body Throughout The World

Preaching in Laskela, Russia; to my left is Rev. Antti Lepisto
serving as Finnish Interpreter; while member of church to my
right interpreted in Russian.

I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all." Eph 4:1-6

It does not matter where you live geographically; if we live within the Body of Christ, we are members of the same body. We are not separate; but, one in Christ.

Very many years ago, I visited Russian Karelia on a mission trip. I found the region to be very much like the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I also found the people to be very much like the people who live here, as well. They were struggling with very much the same issues; except that their poverty level was much greater than our at the time.

It saddens me that as countries and their leaders battle for political supremacy it seems that sometimes we forget about the people there. It is as if foreign countries are inanimate objects; without flesh and blood or the Spirit. We sometimes seem to forget the many faithful brothers and sisters that live throughout the world. The Body of Christ is beyond comprehension. The members are spread throughout the world. They are in: Syria; Russia; Cuba; Iran; Iraq; Africa; India... They are everywhere; and, yes, even here in the United States. There is only One Body. So let us not forget in our prayers the many members of that body who suffer persecution. As we form our personal political agendas; let love and concern for our brothers and sisters in Christ; as well as for all people, guide our hearts, minds, and our actions.

Jesus died so that all who would believe; might have eternal life in His Kingdom. As Christians, may God help us to remember the "all" that lives in every country and kingdom even here on earth.

God's Peace - Pr. J

2 Timothy 4 - Preach The Word No Matter What

2 Timothy 4 NIV

Monastery at Valaam, Russia

Paul is anticipating his death and so closes this letter to Timothy encouraging him to come quickly to even while he gives Timothy instruction on ministry. "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage with great patience and careful instruction," he writes. (vs 2) 

Just as the many deserted Jesus in his last hours, Paul finds that many have deserted him. He warns Timothy to especially watch out for Alexander who did him great harm. There are those who have and will turn their ears away from truth and turn aside to myths. They will listen only to what will please their itching ears. They will come up against you for proclaiming the truth. Keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all duties of your ministry. (vs 3-4)

It is not easy to proclaim the message of God in Christ Jesus. There will be many who will want you out of their lives, even dead. They do not want to hear the truth. The Word of God, is after all, a two-edged sword: one edge to stab the conscience; the other to heal the wounded soul. Be aware of those who would attack you for the truth. But, do not worry unduly about them for God is with you and for you. With patience, continue to proclaim the good news to all who would hear.

"The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all." (vs 22)

God's Peace - Pr. J

2 Thess 1 - Trials Then Glory

2 Thessalonians 1 NIV

Toksovan Lutheran Church, Russia (2002)
A church, then communist meeting hall,
now a church. There is always hope for
those who persevere.

In the face of persecution by friends, family, community; how easy it would be to just give up and follow in the ways of the world! But, for those who are confident in the Lord and in His justice, we do not give up. Our hope is in the Lord and in His promises. We know that in the end God will work all things out for the good to those who love Him and He will be glorified.

Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians begins with words of encouragement. He commends them for their perseverance and faith. They are enduring many persecutions and trials; yet, they remain faithful.

We are tried, daily, in many ways. We suffer many injustices here in this world. Yet, we know that our trials will bear fruit for the good of all of God's children. May God help us to persevere in faith 'till the day that we will see His glory in all its fullness.

God's Peace - Pr. J