Thirsty !!

Jesus said,

If you only knew the Gift God has for you 

And who you are speaking to 

You would ask me and 

I would give you Living Water.

John 4:10

From Emptiness to Abundance

Nourishing the Soul

Amidst the hectic pace of our daily lives, it's easy to feel a sense of emptiness a void that material possessions, achievements, and worldly pursuits fail to fill. This emptiness is not just a lack of something tangible; it's a deeper, spiritual void an ache for something more meaningful, more fulfilling. In the teachings of Jesus Christ, we find profound wisdom on how to address this spiritual emptiness and quench the thirst of our souls.

Are Spiritual Emptiness and Spiritual Thirst the Same?

While spiritual emptiness and spiritual thirst are closely related, they are not identical. Spiritual emptiness is the state of feeling devoid of meaning and fulfillment, whereas spiritual thirst is the longing for something more, the yearning for a deeper connection with God. Spiritual emptiness is the symptom, while spiritual thirst is the underlying desire that drives us to seek fulfillment in God.

 The Nature of Spiritual Emptiness:

Spiritual emptiness is not simply a feeling of sadness or loneliness, but delves into the depths of our innermost being. It leaves us yearning for meaning, intimacy, and completeness. Much like the ache of a fractured relationship longing for reconciliation, it reflects a profound desire for restoration. Moreover, it entails acknowledging that despite our achievements and possessions, a lingering sense of incompleteness persists an unfulfilled longing that transcends material wealth and worldly success.

The Concept of Spiritual Thirst

In the gospel of John, Jesus speaks of a different kind of thirst the spiritual thirst that resides within each of us. He says, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him" (John 7:37-38). This spiritual thirst is the yearning of our souls for a deeper connection with God, a desire to be filled with living water for His love, His Joy, His peace, and His presence bubbles up within us.

Filling the Spiritual Emptiness

So, how do we fill this spiritual emptiness and quench our spiritual thirst? The answer lies in faith in believing in the one whom God has sent, Jesus Christ. Jesus himself declared, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty" (John 6:35). Here, Jesus offers himself as the ultimate source of satisfaction for our spiritual hunger and thirst.

Understanding the Role of Faith

Faith embodies our unwavering confidence in the things we hope for and the certainty in the unseen ( Hebrews 11:1). It signifies our firm trust in God's promises, even when they remain beyond our sight. So Faith is not just a passive acknowledgment of Jesus' existence; it's an active, life-changing trust in Him as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. It's through faith that we invite Jesus into the depths of our souls, allowing His Holy Spirit to enter into our hearts and to fill every empty space within us with His love and grace.

Addressing spiritual emptiness and quenching spiritual thirst require us to turn to Jesus Christ, the source of living water that satisfies the deepest longings of our souls. Through faith in Him, we find true fulfillment, purpose, and abundance of life. As we drink deeply from the well of His grace, our spiritual emptiness is filled with His living Holy Spirit in us, and our thirst is quenched with  His refreshing, renewing, and overflowing love,  joy and peace of eternal life bubbling up with in us.

Soli Deo Gloria

The Spiritual Thirst

Longing for God's Presence

O God, You are my God;

Earnestly I seek You;

My soul thirsts for You;

My body longs for You, 

As in a dry and weary land 

Where there is no water.

Psalm 63:1

In the vast expanse of human experience, there exists a profound longing, a thirst that cannot be quenched by material possessions or earthly pleasures. It is the spiritual thirst, the deep yearning of the soul for something beyond the tangible, something transcendent. This spiritual thirst finds poignant expression in the Psalms, particularly in Psalm 42:1 and Psalm 63:1, where the imagery of longing for water symbolizes the soul's desperate search for God's presence and intimacy.

The imagery in Psalm 42:1 of a deer panting for streams of water vividly portrays the intensity of spiritual thirst. Just as a deer depends on water for survival, the psalmist's soul relies on God for sustenance and fulfillment. This imagery underscores the fundamental truth that human beings are created with a spiritual dimension that yearns for communion with the God our Father. Despite the distractions and temptations of the world, the soul instinctively seeks its source of life and nourishment in God.

Similarly, Psalm 63:1 poetically captures the earnest seeking and thirst for God's presence. The psalmist's whole being longs for God in a dry and parched land, where there is no water. This imagery portrays a profound sense of spiritual desolation and deprivation, emphasizing the soul's desperate need for Godly encounter and refreshment. In the midst of life's challenges and trials, the psalmist recognizes that true fulfillment and satisfaction can only be found in God.

These verses reflect a universal human experience—the longing for transcendence, for meaning and purpose beyond the temporal realities of life. In a world filled with fleeting pleasures and empty promises, the spiritual thirst remains unquenched until it finds its fulfillment in God. The pursuit of material wealth, success, and pleasure may offer temporary satisfaction, but ultimately, they leave the soul empty and unsatisfied. Only God can satisfy the deepest longings of our human heart and provide the lasting fulfillment that our soul craves.

Moreover, the imagery of spiritual thirst in these Psalms underscores the importance of prioritizing intimacy with God. The psalmist's earnest seeking and longing for God's presence serve as a poignant reminder that true satisfaction is found in communion with the eternal. In a culture characterized by busyness and distraction, it is all too easy to neglect the spiritual dimension of life and worldly things. However, the spiritual thirst persists, reminding us of our inherent need for God's presence and love.

In conclusion, the Psalms eloquently capture the universal human experience of spiritual thirst—the deep longing of the soul for God's presence and intimacy. Psalm 42:1 and Psalm 63:1, with their poignant imagery of longing for water, serve as powerful reminders of the soul's innate yearning for communion with the Lord. Just as the earth awakens with the arrival of spring, so too does our spiritual journey awaken with the promise of eternal life. The words spoken to the Samaritan woman resonate deeply (John 4:14), reminding us that the water Christ offers quenches our deepest thirst and flows abundantly within us, becoming a source of life for others.  As we navigate the complexities of life, may we heed the call of our spiritual thirst and seek fulfillment in Christ alone, the source of living water that satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart.

Soli Deo Gloria

Demoniacs

There are two equal and opposite errors

 into which our race can fall about the devils. 

One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, 

and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them.” 

― C. S. Lewis

Balancing the Spiritual Equation

Insights from C.S. Lewis and Biblical Teachings on Demoniacs

C.S. Lewis, in his work "The Screwtape Letters," provides deep insights into the two errors humans can make concerning demons—a topic that resonates with biblical teachings and the encounters of Jesus with demonic forces. Let us explore Lewis's perspective within the broader context of Christian spirituality, examining the two errors and drawing connections to scriptural teachings.

C.S. Lewis and the Subtle Influences of Evil:

In "The Screwtape Letters," Lewis delves into the subtle and deceptive ways that evil influences can impact individuals. The collection of letters from Screwtape, a senior demon, to his nephew Wormwood, a junior tempter, offers a unique perspective on human nature, temptation, and the spiritual battle between good and evil. Lewis's exploration of demonic influences serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be vigilant and discerning in their spiritual journey.

The Two Errors Concerning Demons:

The heart of Lewis's insight lies in the acknowledgment of two extreme errors humans can make in their perception of demons. The first error is the outright disbelief in their existence, dismissing the spiritual dimension and remaining oblivious to potential influences. The second error, as Lewis articulates, is an excessive and unhealthy fascination with demons, leading to preoccupation and distraction from more significant spiritual truths.

1.  Avoiding the Error of Disbelief:

·        Biblical Grounding: Ephesians 6:12 (ESV) establishes the reality of spiritual forces: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

·        Jesus' Encounters: The Gospels provide concrete examples of Jesus acknowledging and addressing demonic forces. In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus encounters the possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes, demonstrating His authority by casting out the legion (a unit of 3000-6000) of demons and restoring the man to his right mind.

2.  Avoiding the Error of Excessive Fascination:

·        Biblical Warning: Colossians 2:18 (ESV) warns against unhealthy fascination: "Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind."

·        Jesus' Focus on Authority: In Jesus' encounters with demons, the emphasis is consistently on His authority over them. In Mark 1:23-27, Jesus casts out an unclean spirit from a man in the synagogue, and the witnesses marvel at His authority, not delving into the nature of the demonic but recognizing the supremacy of Christ.

3.  Balanced Perspective:

·        Acknowledging Reality: Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) encourages a balanced perspective by trusting in the Lord: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

·        Wisdom and Discernment: James 1:5 (ESV) urges believers to seek wisdom and discernment: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." This wisdom includes recognizing spiritual realities while avoiding excessive fixation.

4.  Centering on Christ's Authority:

·        Triumphant Power of Christ: Colossians 2:15 (ESV) emphasizes the triumphant power of Christ: "He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him." By focusing on Christ's authority, believers can navigate the spiritual realm with confidence.

·        Jesus' Final Victory: Revelation 20:10 (ESV) speaks of the ultimate triumph over evil: "And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever."

Conclusion:

C.S. Lewis's exploration of the errors concerning demons aligns seamlessly with biblical teachings and the encounters of Jesus with demonic forces. Through a combination of verses that establish the reality of spiritual forces, warn against unhealthy fascination, promote a balanced perspective, and highlight Christ's triumphant power, individuals are encouraged to approach the spiritual realm with wisdom, discernment, and a faith firmly rooted in the reality of Christ's authority. By maintaining this balanced perspective, believers can navigate the complexities of the spiritual realm, recognizing the ultimate triumph of Christ over all spiritual forces of darkness.

Soli Deo Gloria

Spiritual Warfare

Haunting Spiritual Emptiness

43 “When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it.44 Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order.45 Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation.” Matthew 12:43-45

In the poignant parable found in Matthew 12:43-45, Jesus imparts profound wisdom about the nature of evil and the vulnerability of an empty heart. The vivid imagery of an unclean spirit seeking rest, returning to a swept and empty house, and bringing seven more wicked spirits paints a haunting picture of the perilous state of an unoccupied soul. This brief yet powerful teaching holds timeless truths that resonate with the practical realities of human nature. Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, describes our ongoing battle as a triple alliance: the world (the enemy around us), the flesh (the enemy within us), and the devil (the enemy above us).

Evil at Bay but Never Eliminated: The parable commences with the banishment of the unclean spirit from the man. However, Jesus emphasizes a crucial reality – evil is not annihilated; it is merely at bay, seeking an opportunity to counter-attack and regain lost ground. This underscores the continuous battle against the forces of darkness in the spiritual realm, serving as a stark reminder that while evil can be temporarily banished, it remains a persistent force, always looking for an entry point.

Biblical Support: Ephesians 6:12 (ESV): "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

Negative Religion Falls Short: The parable suggests that a negative approach to religion, centered solely on prohibitions and thou shalt nots, is insufficient. It may cleanse a person by restricting evil actions, but it cannot maintain the cleanliness. The emptiness left after banishing evil must be filled with positive, constructive elements to prevent a relapse into old ways. Simply removing vices without introducing virtues leaves a void that begs to be refilled.

Biblical Support: Matthew 12:44 (ESV): "Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came.' And when it comes, it finds the house empty, swept, and put in order."

The Permanent Cure: Christian Action and the Holy Spirit: The parable leads to a profound conclusion – the only permanent cure for evil action is Christian action. Christianity, as depicted in this context, is not just about avoiding sinful behavior; it is about actively engaging in fruitful and meaningful activities for Christ. The emptiness left after banishing evil must be filled with positive, healthy, and Christ-centered actions.

Biblical Support: Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

The Holy Spirit as the Fortress : Becoming spiritually stronger involves embracing various practices and disciplines that enrich our connection with God. Firstly, immersing ourselves in the study of God's Word provides us with invaluable guidance, wisdom, and insight into His character. Secondly, prayer serves as a cornerstone in our spiritual journey, fostering intimacy with God and nurturing our relationship with Him. Additionally, engaging in fellowship with fellow believers is essential for our growth, as it allows us to worship together, learn from one another, and be encouraged in our faith. Lastly, actively sharing our faith with others serves to strengthen our spiritual resolve, deepening our understanding of God's love and reinforcing our commitment to Him. Ultimately, drawing closer to Christ necessitates a steadfast dedication to these foundational practices.

Biblical Support: 2 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬: "”But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.“

Joyful Growth: Embracing Spiritual Maturity

Biblical Support: Malachi‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬ ‭: For you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves.“

The imagery of skipping about like calves from the stall in Malachi 4:2 portrays the joy and freedom that comes from growth and maturity in our relationship with God. Just as calves eagerly bound from their stalls into the open field, so too do we experience a sense of liberation and exuberance as we mature spiritually.

This verse reminds us that growth is a natural part of our journey with God. As we deepen our understanding of His love, His Word, and His ways, we experience newfound freedom and joy in our faith. It's a beautiful picture of the transformation that occurs when we allow God to work in our lives, leading us to a place of greater spiritual maturity and fulfillment. Ultimately, Malachi 4:2 encourages us to embrace the process of growth and to rejoice in the freedom and joy that comes from walking closely with our Heavenly Father.

The parable of the unclean spirit underscores the continual nature of spiritual development. Merely removing evil influences is insufficient; we must actively embrace Christ-centered actions and service to fill the emptiness. This is facilitated by the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, leading to the abundance of the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

In essence, believers are encouraged to diligently pursue their faith, enriching their lives with the abundance found in Christ, and relying on the transformative influence of the Holy Spirit for the advancement of God's kingdom and the glorification of His name.

Vinny's Journey: A Triumph Over Alcoholism

Removing the Vice: Vinny, ensnared in the destructive cycle of alcoholism, experienced a transformative breakthrough when he decided to break free from the chains of addiction. Seeking help through rehabilitation, therapy, and a robust support system, Vinny successfully eliminated alcohol from his daily existence. This marked a significant step in his journey toward recovery.

Emptiness and the Temptation to Relapse: The aftermath of quitting alcohol left Vinny facing an emptiness —a potential breeding ground for negative thoughts and relapse. Recognizing the risk, he embraced a deliberate strategy to ensure lasting change, understanding that simply removing the vice was not enough.

Introducing Virtues to Fill the Void: Vinny understood the importance of introducing positive elements into his life to maintain sobriety. His journey involved a purposeful cultivation of virtues that contributed to a more fulfilling and healthier lifestyle.

• Bible Study and Prayer (Galatians 5:22-23): Vinny devoted time to Bible study and prayer, deepening his spiritual connection and finding strength and guidance in his faith. The fruits of the Holy Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, became evident in his life.
• Fellowship with Christians: Recognizing the significance of community, Vinny actively engaged in fellowship with other Christians. This provided him with a supportive network, fostering love and kindness, essential components of spiritual growth.

Ginny's Journey: Triumph Over Anger

Recognizing the Vice: Ginny found herself entangled in a destructive cycle of anger, realizing its detrimental impact on her well-being and relationships. Acknowledging the negative influence of her anger marked the crucial starting point in her transformative journey.

Seeking Guidance and Support: Understanding that overcoming anger required more than sheer willpower, Ginny sought guidance from therapists, counselors, and a supportive network. This collaborative approach emphasized the importance of seeking external support to foster healing.

Developing Self-Awareness: In therapy sessions, Ginny delved into the underlying issues contributing to her anger, fostering self-awareness. This crucial step enabled her to identify and address the root causes of her emotional responses, promoting personal growth.

Learning Coping Strategies: Equipped with insights gained from therapy, Ginny acquired effective coping strategies to manage her anger. These tools, rooted in mindfulness and self-control, exemplified the fruits of the Holy Spirit—patience, gentleness, and self-control.

Seeking Spiritual Guidance: Recognizing the spiritual dimension of her journey, Ginny turned to her faith for guidance. Through prayer and reflection, she sought God's help in overcoming anger, embracing forgiveness, and pursuing inner peace—manifestations of the fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Building Healthy Relationships: As Ginny progressed, she focused on repairing and nurturing relationships, embodying the spirit of love, kindness, and patience. Open communication and understanding became integral elements in building healthier connections.

Engaging in Positive Outlets: To redirect her energy positively, Ginny actively engaged in constructive outlets, mirroring the fruits of joy and peace. Physical exercise, artistic pursuits, and community involvement provided her with avenues to channel her emotions.

Sustaining Positive Change: Ginny's commitment to sustained positive change remained unwavering. Regular check-ins with her support network, continued therapy, and dedication to ongoing self-improvement reflected perseverance and faithfulness—more fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Sharing Her Journey: As Ginny experienced transformation, she became an advocate for those struggling with anger issues. Her transparency and willingness to help others showcased the virtues of kindness, goodness, and love, adding purpose and meaning to her journey.

Conclusion: Vinny and Ginny's journeys vividly illustrate the transformative power of addressing life-controlling issues through self control, seeking guidance, and embracing a holistic approach to change. By incorporating disciplines and enjoying the fruits of the Holy Spirit, they not only triumphed over their struggles but also became beacons of inspiration for others on similar paths of healing and growth.

Prayer for Spiritual Warfare: Filling Spiritual Emptiness with Divine Power

Heavenly Father, we humbly bow before You, acknowledging the power of Your Word and the truths revealed in the parable spoken by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We recognize the reality of spiritual warfare and the continuous battle against the forces of darkness.

As we stand on the promises of Your Word, we declare, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12, ESV). We put on the full armor of God, securing our position in the spiritual realm.

Lord, forgive us for any negativity that has infiltrated our approach to faith. Your Word teaches us that it is not enough to simply remove vices; we must actively fill the void with positive, constructive elements. We open our hearts to the fruits of the Holy Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23, ESV).

Holy Spirit, we invite Your transformative power into our lives. Grant us the wisdom to understand that Christian action is the permanent cure for the influences of evil. "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" (Acts 1:8, ESV). May we actively engage in fruitful and meaningful activities for Christ, filling our lives with Your positive, healthy, and Christ-centered actions.

We declare Your Word over our lives and the lives of those like Vinny and Ginny, who have faced life-controlling issues. May Your Spirit work mightily within them, breaking chains and transforming their hearts. "For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds" (2 Corinthians 10:4, ESV).

Clothe us, O Holy Spirit, with the armor of God, enabling us to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy. As we embark on this spiritual journey, may our actions be a testimony to the victory we have in Christ. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23, ESV).

In the name of Jesus, who has overcome the world, we pray. Amen. 

Soli Deo Gloria

Watching and Waiting

There are many of us who have sensed a void in our hearts, especially during very frustrating and infuriating times in our lives. The dimensions of this emptiness, when we are left to wait all alone, are so wide and deep that they cannot be measured. It is a spiritual emptiness that nothing that this world has to offer can fill. Have you sensed fruitlessness, worthlessness, deprivation, or abandonment that exposes a void deep within you?

The Killer in the Amish settlement had crammed himself with much hatred and anger over the years. He responded with violence and murder. The path of violence results only in more violence. The only thing that darkness cannot oppose is light. The only thing that will overcome hatred and anger is love.The best way to deal with emptiness is to fill it with the presence of God and with activities that will draw us nearer to His presence. If we can recognize this emptiness as a longing or thirst for the Spirit of Christ, then we will no longer feel empty. As we pray, reflect, and study God’s word our emptiness is slowly filled with God’s presence. When we discipline ourselves to do so regularly we begin to sense a joy and love for life that we did not have before. If we invite the Spirit of Christ to dwell within us, we will find ourselves brimming with love, joy, patience, hope, and peace.

Zachariah and Elizabeth had prayed earnestly for many years for a child. They were both descendants of priestly families. They were considered to be righteous in the eyes of God, as they had been faithful and sincere in following every regulation of the Jewish law. Why they were not blessed with children is puzzling. For many years they had endured the pain and disgrace within the community of Elizabeth being barren and had reached the point of no hope of ever having a child. When Zachariah went to the temple to serve his two weeks in the temple, hardly did he realize that it was going to be a life-changing experience. As the faithful gathered and watched the incense smoke that he burned rise heavenward as a sign of their prayers going up toward God, an angel of the Lord appeared before Zachariah in the inner most sanctuary. Zachariah was dumbstruck with an angelic vision of the good news that his wife Elizabeth would bear him a child.

In what had seemed like an unfavorable situation, God rewarded them with a child who was declared by Christ to be the greatest man born of a woman on earth (Luke 7:28). What the angel said brought great joy and cheer to hearts that had been waiting patiently. John was described as being filled with the Holy Spirit, with spiritual powers comparable to Elijah. He would herald the coming of the Messiah. Zachariah must have greatly rejoiced for he, as a faithful Jew, had also prayed for the coming of the Messiah. When Zachariah asked the angel for a sign, the angel said he would not be able to speak until the baby was born. Was Zachariah’s silence the sign that heralded the birth of his child? When Elizabeth delivered the baby, she rejoiced and said that God had shown them great favor and taken the disgrace she endured away from her. Their patient wait had led Elizabeth and Zachariah to receive one of the greatest honors in Christian history.

King David was anointed as King by Samuel when he was but a young boy. However he had to wait for many years before he became King. Davids psalms of prayer and praise have been a blessing to the faithful during their long period of waiting (Psalm 40, Psalm 23). He even had to endure the persecution from King Saul who tried many times to kill him. Patience is the ability to endure all kinds of hardships and monotonous situations until we are able to realize God’s purpose for our lives. The author of Ecclesiastes says there is a time and purpose for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). We must accept the reality of the situation that just as it takes times to grow physically; it takes time to grow spiritually.

It is the hard and trying times in our lives that truly test what we are made off. It is these times that shape and mold us into responsible and experienced people. The bottom line is that we should not get annoyed or disappointed. Christ said that if we are patient we will gain our lives (Luke 21:19). What do we hope for? What do we love? What do we have faith in? What is it that occupies our thoughts? Where does our heart lie? St. Paul (1 Timothy 6:6-12) says in his letter to Timothy that we should not get snared by senseless and harmful desires that will destroy us. He encourages us to pursue righteousness, faith, love, patience and gentleness. It is when we fight the good fight of faith that we win the race of life. Paul says that if we emulate the attitude of Christ toward each other, then God will give us the patience and encouragement we need to live in harmony with each other (Romans 15:5-6).

To invite the Holy Spirit into our lives is likened to springs of living water that well up within us with a new burst of life. To those living in darkness it is light, to those who are lost it is to be found, to those who are poor it is to be rich, and to those who are sick to be well. He quenches our thirst and feeds our hunger to do God’s will. He changes and transforms us to be more like Christ. Christ said that we should surrender all our worries and anxieties into the hands of God. It is only when the Holy Spirit comes and fills up, and cleanses all the dark crevices in our lives that we begin to lose that empty feeling. In Christ we find forgiveness for our past blunders and mistakes (Colossians 1:9-14). He gives us a new vision of what He wants us to be. If we watch and wait, God will reveal His plan and purpose for our lives. Christ offers us a new life in Him (Matthew 16:24-26). As the popular hymn goes, near the cross I will watch and wait, hoping trusting ever, till I reach the golden strand, just beyond the river.