2025-08-03T12:22:00-04:00

“What I Did on My Summer Holidays (and Where I Found God)”

August 3, 2025August 3, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

By Rev. Barbara Creelman

Linden Park United Worship Video – scroll to bottom

What did you do on your summer holidays?

It’s the classic back-to-school question. And this week, as I prepared for Sunday and reflected on the past month, I found myself answering it. I answered not as a student, but as a soul that needed rest.

Here’s what I did:

I rested.
I played games.
I worked on a jigsaw puzzle.
I walked.
I beached.
I picked blueberries.
I swam.
I visited with family.
I ate ice cream.
I went to a museum.

Nothing groundbreaking. No exotic travel plans. No massive achievements.
But in every one of those simple things… I met God.

🌿 Jesus Said, “Come Away and Rest”

One of the verses I’ve been holding onto lately is from Mark 6:31, where Jesus says to his disciples:

“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”

That invitation comes after the disciples had been out in the world doing ministry, helping others, and working hard. Jesus didn’t say, “Well done—now do more.” He said, come away. Rest. Be still.

And that’s what this summer gave me: stillness. Not always silence—but soul-quiet.
I wasn’t lazy. I was living gently.

The jigsaw puzzle helped me slow my thoughts.
The walk brought fresh air to tired bones.
The beach invited me to float, breathe, release.
The blueberries—well, they reminded me that the earth still gives.

🌞 There Is a Season for Everything

Ecclesiastes 3 tells us that:

“There is a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance…
That everyone may eat and drink and find satisfaction in their work—this is the gift of God.”

I’ve read that many times, but this year it felt personal.
This summer, there was laughter around family tables.
There was dancing—of the everyday kind: in the kitchen, on the trail, through conversation.
There was joy in each small moment.
And yes—there was satisfaction in the gift of doing nothing urgent.

🧩 Life, Like a Puzzle

One of the images that has stayed with me is the puzzle I worked on.

Thousands of tiny pieces, all jumbled and confusing.
Sometimes I’d sit for an hour and not find a match.
Other times, it would come together effortlessly.

Isn’t that life?

There are days when the pieces don’t fit.
Seasons when things go missing.
But slowly, steadily, God is putting something beautiful together—even if I can’t yet see the whole picture.

🍦 Grace Tastes Like Ice Cream

And then there are moments of pure, holy joy.

A scoop of chocolate chip mint shared with someone you love.
A lake that welcomes you like a baptism.
A museum exhibit that makes you gasp with wonder.
The sound of family laughing over a silly board game.

These aren’t distractions from the spiritual life.
They are the spiritual life.

God isn’t only found in pews and prayer books.
God is also in sunshine and conversation and dessert and discovery.

✨ A Summer Blessing

So, what did I do on my summer holidays?

I lived. I laughed. I rested. I remembered who I am.
And I remembered Whose I am.

And now I’m carrying that rest into the season ahead.

Let me leave you with this blessing. Maybe it’s for you too:

May the God of rest restore your soul.
May the God of play awaken your joy.
May the God of beauty open your eyes to wonder.
And may your summer story become a chapter of gratitude.

Sunday Message: “Come Home”

June 15, 2025June 15, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

✝️

Scripture: Luke 15:11–32
Hymn: “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling”

🕊️ Introduction

Today we hear two voices calling us. We hear the voice of Jesus in Scripture. We also hear the voice of Jesus through song.

In Luke 15, Jesus tells a story that has reached hearts for centuries. It is the story of a son who wandered, a father who waited, and a homecoming filled with grace.

And in the hymn “Softly and Tenderly,” we hear that same invitation:

“Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me…
Come home, come home,
Ye who are weary, come home…”

The message is simple and profound: God is calling you home.
No matter who you are. No matter where you’ve been. No matter how long it’s been.

Let’s think together on three truths this story reveals about the heart of God.

❤️ 1. Love That Waits

“While he was still far off, his father saw him…” (v.20)

Before the son ever said a word, the father saw him.

He had been watching the road.
Day after day, hoping — praying — his child would come back.

That’s the first truth of God’s love:
God waits for us. Not with scolding. Not with shame. But with longing.

And Jesus calls us softly and tenderly, not with thunder or guilt.
He invites us: “Come home, ye who are weary…”

Maybe you’ve wandered. Maybe it’s been a hard season.
Maybe you’ve stayed outwardly close but feel spiritually far.

God’s love is waiting. Watching. Hoping.

🏃‍♂️ 2. Grace That Runs

“He ran to him, threw his arms around him, and kissed him.” (v.20)

In that time, older men didn’t run. It wasn’t dignified.
But this father ran — because love doesn’t worry about appearances.

He didn’t wait for an apology or a cleaned-up speech.
He didn’t hold back until he heard the whole story.
He simply ran — with arms open.

That’s grace.

It’s what Jesus offers to each of us:
Not conditional love, but compassion in motion.
Not “clean up your act and come,” but “come, and I will make you whole.”

That’s why the hymn says:

“See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching —
Watching for you and for me.”

Grace isn’t passive. Grace runs toward us.

🏡 3. Mercy That Welcomes All

“This brother of yours was dead and has come to life…” (v.32)

We often stop the story at the welcome home — but Jesus doesn’t.
He includes the older brother, standing outside, angry, hurt, self-righteous.

And what does the father do?

He goes out to him too.

Because the Father’s mercy isn’t just for the prodigal — it’s for both sons.

God’s love reaches the lost and the loyal, the rebels and the rule-keepers.
And in this story, we are all invited.

The invitation from the hymn is for everyone:

“Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling —
Calling, O sinner, come home!”

✨ Conclusion: Come Home

Today is Trinity Sunday. We give thanks for the mystery of God —
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — united in love.

And it’s also Father’s Day. We give thanks for the love of earthly fathers and all those who have mentored us along the way. We also appreciate the greater love of God, who waits, runs, and welcomes.

Whether you are wandering, weary, or watching from a distance —
Jesus is calling you home.

Softly, tenderly — and always with open arms.

So come home.
Come to grace.
Come to love.
Come to God.

Amen.

Come, Holy Spirit:

June 8, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

A Pentecost Reflection

(Recorded live during worship at LInden Park United Community Church, Hamilton)

Renewal, Unity, Sending

Pentecost has always been one of my favorite days in the church year. It’s often called the birthday of the church — a day of wind, fire, voices, and bold new beginnings. But as I’ve grown older, I see Pentecost as something more profound. It feels like a personal invitation to welcome the Holy Spirit’s work in my life again. This invitation stands regardless of my age, energy level, or stage of life.

This year, as I prepared to lead our worship, three simple words guided me.
Renewal. Unity. Sending.

Let me share a few reflections from my study.

1️⃣ The Spirit Renews Our Lives

Acts 2 tells us that the Holy Spirit came like a rushing wind and tongues of fire. In Ezekiel 37, we read of dry bones being brought back to life by God’s Spirit.

I don’t know about you, but there are times when my spirit feels tired or dry. Life brings seasons of grief, change, and uncertainty. But Pentecost reminds us: God is not finished with us! The Spirit still breathes new life into weary hearts. We can be renewed again — even in our later years.

2️⃣ The Spirit Brings Unity in Diversity

On that first Pentecost, people from many nations heard the Good News in their own language. The Spirit didn’t erase their differences — it brought understanding and unity.

In today’s world, we need this Pentecost Spirit more than ever. The church is called to be a place where all belong — across generations, cultures, and backgrounds. In our seniors’ group, we shared how each person’s gifts and life experience enriches the whole body of Christ.

3️⃣ The Spirit Sends Us to Witness

Pentecost was not just about gathering — it was about sending. Jesus said, “You will be my witnesses.”

Sometimes we think of witnessing as something for the young or the bold. But we realized in our group. Each of us, no matter our age, can share Christ’s love. We can do this through prayer, encouragement, kindness, and presence. The Spirit empowers us to shine His light right where we are.

A Prayer for Pentecost

Spirit of the Living God,
breathe new life in us again.
Unite us in your love.
Send us out — with courage and joy —
to be your witnesses in the world.
Amen.

Final Thought

Pentecost reminds me that I am never too old to be renewed. I am never too different to belong. I am never too small to be sent.

Come, Holy Spirit — fall afresh on us!

Why Does Jesus Love Me?

June 1, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

It’s a question that lingers in many hearts—especially in quiet moments when we’re honest with ourselves:

Why would Jesus love someone like me?

It’s not always easy to accept. Life has left its marks. We’ve made mistakes. We’ve doubted, fallen short, and wondered if we’re still worthy of love.

But Scripture answers this question, not with a list of qualifications, but with the cross.

“But God proves His love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8

Let’s break that open gently and see what it tells us.

1. Jesus Loves Me Because It’s Who He Is

Love isn’t something Jesus does.
Love is who He is.

“God is love.” – 1 John 4:8

Just like the sun doesn’t need a reason to shine, Jesus doesn’t need a reason to love you. He does it because it’s His very nature. It’s not about what you’ve done or failed to do. It’s about who He is—and whose you are.

2. Jesus Loves Me Because I Am Known and Created by Him

You are not an accident.
You were made by the hands of the Savior who now holds them out to you in love.

“I have called you by name. You are mine.” – Isaiah 43:1

Jesus doesn’t just love the idea of you. He loves the real you—your scars, your story, your soul.

3. Jesus Loves Me Enough to Redeem Me

The cross wasn’t a symbol. It was a sacrifice.
Not for a world in general—but for you in particular.

He didn’t wait for you to clean up your act.

“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

He came into your mess, your grief, your shame—and He stayed.

So, What Can I Do Today to Draw Nearer to Christ?

Read a few verses. Let His Word speak to you.
Talk to Him honestly. Prayer doesn’t need polish—just presence.
Be still for a few minutes. Let your heart quiet down.
Love someone quietly. A kind word or gesture in His name is holy.
Thank Him. Gratitude draws your soul closer.
Whisper His name. Even a small, sincere “Jesus, help me,” is a sacred step.

Final Thought:

If you’re wondering why Jesus loves you, the answer is already written in nail-scarred hands.

You are His. That is enough.

The Call to Unity and Christlike Humility

May 25, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

🔹 Philippians 2:2–16

“Make my joy whole by being like-minded. Have the same love and be one in spirit and of one mind. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”

Meaning for the Church Today:

Pursue Deep Unity
- Unity is more than agreement—it’s shared purpose rooted in Christ’s love.
- In a divided world, the church is called to model mutual care and shared mission.
Practice Humility
- We’re to “consider others better than ourselves,” which counters the culture of pride, self-promotion, and individualism.
- Church members should serve each other rather than compete for position or recognition.
Imitate Christ’s Mindset
- Jesus humbled Himself—so should we. His example is our pattern.
- The church thrives when it reflects the servant-hearted love of Jesus.

🔹 Philippians 2:12–16 – Working Out Salvation and Shining as Lights

“Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. Do everything without grumbling or arguing. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. You hold firmly to the word of life.”

Meaning for the Church Today:

Live Out Salvation Daily
- Paul isn’t saying we earn salvation, but that we live it out with seriousness.
- The church must be a community that actively reflects the grace it has received.
Cultivate Obedient Hearts
- Paul reminds the Philippians to obey not just when he’s here, but always.
- Faithfulness is not dependent on leadership watching—it flows from inward transformation.
Avoid Grumbling and Division
- Churches today often fall into cycles of complaint or internal strife.
- Paul says such behavior dims our witness. Joyful, united communities shine brightest.
Shine in a Dark World
- The church is called to be a beacon of light. This is not achieved through power or control. Instead, it relies on holding fast to the Word and embodying hope.
- In an anxious, fractured world, a loving, united church offers powerful testimony.

✨ Summary Takeaway for Today’s Church:

The church is at its best when it is unified in love.

It thrives when it is humble in spirit.

The church is obedient to Christ and radiant with hope.

We are not called to blend in with the world. We are called to stand out. We do this not through judgment or noise. We do this by living as a Christ-shaped community that shines like stars in the sky.

“Gracious Lord, thank You for showing us how to love and live like Jesus. Help us to be humble, united, and full of joy as we follow You. Let our lives show Your light, and others will be drawn to You through our witness. Amen.”

Anchored in the Storm:

May 18, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Holding Fast to Hope

Have you ever been in a boat when the waters turned rough?
Maybe on a lake or a river. You start off with a good weather report. The skies are clear. The breeze is calm. Then suddenly the wind picks up. The water grows choppy. Your boat rocks, and fear starts to rise in your chest.

Depending on the size of your boat—or your barge—you feel very small and very vulnerable.

But those who know the water? They don’t panic.
They head for a cove, a sheltered place, and they throw out the anchor. And they wait.

Because here’s what they know: every storm runs out of energy. Every storm ends.

Same Storm, Different Boats

During the pandemic, we heard over and over: “We’re all in the same boat.”
But let’s be honest—maybe we were all in the same storm, but not in the same boat.

Some had sturdy ships with full crews and plenty of support. Others were clinging to driftwood, barely staying afloat.
Some had tools, resources, coping strategies. Others felt overwhelmed and unsure of the outcome.

What Scripture Reminds Us

In Hebrews 6, we’re encouraged to press on—“to move beyond just the basic teachings of the Anointed One.” In other words: don’t stay stuck in the past.
We’re not meant to row backward. The captain of a ship doesn’t look behind to navigate. They look ahead—toward the open sea, toward hope, trusting that the anchor will hold.

We’re called to do the same.
Yes, we learn from our past, but we live in the now—and we look ahead, with certain hope.

Has the Church Drifted?

Let’s speak truth: the Church today—especially the wider Church—feels like it’s run aground.
We’re being battered by many rocks:

Fatigue – So many of us are burned out.
Bewilderment – How did we end up here?
Financial pressure – Too much going out, not enough coming in.
Indifference – “It doesn’t really matter to me.”

But Scripture speaks into this storm, too.

Paul urges us to pray without ceasing—with thanksgiving.
Jesus didn’t just tell us how to pray—He showed us how to live through the storms.

He showed us how to love—not based on how others live, or worship, or even believe—but simply to love.

Four Anchors in the Storm

Let’s not over complicate this.
When the storm rages and the Church feels adrift, here are four anchors to steady us:

Pray.
Turn to the Word—turn to Jesus.
Look ahead, not back.
And pray again.

When we shift our eyes from ourselves to Jesus, the next steps become clearer.
When we shift from inward focus to outward mission, we become more than just a building on the corner. We transform into the hands and feet of Christ.

A Covenant to Move Ahead

So let’s make a pact with one another.

Let’s stand together in the light of the living Christ, as we pass through the storm toward calm waters.

Because here’s a truth we need to remember:
No ship anchored at shore can fulfill its mission.
It can’t deliver goods, it can’t ferry people, it can’t grow or explore.

Comfort is easy—but faith is not about ease.
Faith is about action. Movement. Participation.

Maybe we don’t row like we used to.
Maybe we can’t run marathons or even drive across town.
But our smiles still matter.
A kind word. A phone call. A simple “thank you.”
Our hearts can still grow in Christ.

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

Remember when Jesus called Peter out of the boat?
Peter stepped out onto the water—but the moment he took his eyes off Jesus, he began to sink.

We must keep our eyes on Christ.
Because we do have an anchor—an anchor that keeps the soul, steadfast and sure while the billows roll.

Let’s look to the horizon, to the One who loves us.
Let’s move ahead—together. Amen.

Serve, speak the truth, and shine.

May 4, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

What Acts 6 Teaches Us About Leadership and Courage

In the early days of the church, something beautiful and messy happened — growth.
But as more people joined, real needs began to surface.
Acts 6 gives us a powerful glimpse into how the early church handled conflict, raised up leaders, and lived out their calling with Spirit-filled courage.

Here are five lessons we can draw from this chapter — and from Stephen, a servant full of grace and power.

1. Growth Brings Growing Pains

As the number of disciples increased, so did the challenges.
A dispute arose over the care of widows, revealing gaps in the church’s support system.
Instead of ignoring the issue, the apostles listened and acted.

Real ministry isn’t free from conflict — it faces it with wisdom.
When our churches or communities grow, we must also grow in grace, structure, and communication.

2. Delegation Requires Discernment

The apostles didn’t try to do everything themselves.
They said: “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables” (Acts 6:2).
So they appointed seven Spirit-filled individuals to care for the practical needs of the community.

Healthy delegation isn’t about handing off chores — it’s about sharing purpose.
Everyone has a role in building the kingdom. Word and deed go hand in hand.

3. Character is the First Qualification

When choosing leaders, the early church looked not at resumes, but at hearts.
They chose men “full of the Spirit and wisdom.” Stephen stood out as “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.”

The Spirit-filled life doesn’t start on a stage — it starts in quiet faithfulness.
Leadership in God’s eyes begins with integrity, prayer, and a surrendered heart.

4. Spirit-Filled Witness May Bring Resistance

Stephen didn’t stay hidden in administrative duties.
He preached boldly, performed signs, and shared the gospel with clarity and power.
This drew opposition from those who couldn’t stand against the wisdom the Spirit gave him.

When you live boldly for Christ, resistance will come.
But so will strength — not from us, but from the Spirit who speaks through us.

5. A Life Close to God Will Shine

As false witnesses rose up against Stephen, something remarkable happened.
“They saw that his face was like the face of an angel.”
Stephen’s countenance reflected his closeness to God — even under pressure.

We may not always perform miracles. Yet, we can show God’s glory in the way we live. We can reflect it through how we serve and stand firm.

Final Thoughts

Acts 6 reminds us that serving tables and standing before councils are both sacred when done in the Spirit.
Stephen shows us that leadership is about more than skills. It’s about courage, grace, and being rooted in God’s presence.

Want to live a Spirit-filled life? Start by serving.
Stand in truth. And let your life shine with grace.

🕊️ Bread for the Journey

April 13, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Palm Sunday Reflection on Luke 19:28–40

As Palm Sunday arrives, we find ourselves at a turning point in the story of Jesus—a moment of celebration that leads directly to the cross. In Luke 19:28–40, Jesus enters Jerusalem on a colt, welcomed by crowds shouting praise, laying down cloaks, and waving branches. It looks like a victory parade, but beneath it lies something much deeper.

Jesus is not entering the city to claim a throne. He’s entering to give Himself away. He is becoming bread for the journey—for the disciples, for the people, and for us.

🎉 The Joy of the People: Nourishment Through Worship

As Jesus approaches, the people rejoice with loud voices. They’ve seen His miracles, heard His teachings, and sensed something holy in His presence. Their praise is passionate and heartfelt.

Yet we know how quickly the mood will shift. From “Hosanna” to “Crucify Him” in just a few days. Their joy is real—but fragile.

Still, this moment teaches us something essential: joy is food for the soul.
Even if we’re walking through hard times, worship sustains us. Singing, praying, laying our hearts before the Lord—these are ways we take in spiritual nourishment.

Worship is bread for the journey.

🕊️ The Humility of Jesus: Gentle Strength

Jesus chooses a colt, not a warhorse. He doesn’t enter Jerusalem as a conqueror, but as a servant King. This is not how the world expects royalty to behave—but it is the way of Christ.

In our own journeys, we often hunger for peace, not power. Gentleness can be more nourishing than strength. In the quiet humility of Jesus, we find a model for how to live, how to love, and how to keep going.

Humility is bread for the journey.

🪨 Even the Stones Will Cry Out

When the Pharisees try to quiet the crowd, Jesus responds:
“If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

What a powerful truth. The praise of Jesus is so real, so essential, that even creation would rise up if people stayed silent. We were made to worship. And even when life feels heavy or quiet, praise keeps us connected to something bigger than ourselves.

Whether sung in full voice or whispered in prayer, our praise matters. It keeps our spirits fed.

Praise is bread for the journey.

🍞 Jesus Is the Bread

This triumphal entry leads to an upper room, where bread will be broken. Then to a cross, where His body becomes the broken bread for the world. Then to a tomb—and finally, to resurrection.

Jesus doesn’t just walk the journey—He becomes the nourishment for ours.

🌿 As Holy Week Begins…

What do you need for your own journey right now?

Maybe you’re weary. Maybe you’re grateful. Maybe you’ve been quietly carrying burdens no one else sees. Wherever you are, Jesus meets you—on a colt, in humility, with joy, with peace. He offers Himself again, not as a concept, but as living bread.

So come. Lay down your cloak. Lift up your voice. And let Him feed you.

Jesus is your bread for the journey.

Wishing you a blessed Holy Week. May your heart be fed and your spirit strengthened for the road ahead.

Link to full worship experience:

Linden Park United Church weekly announcements and information:

Linden Park Contact Information:
484 East 16th Street, Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
For Pastoral Care please call (905) 252-1894
Rev. Barbara Creelman/OM
Sunday at 10:30 A.M.
Mailing/Cheque donation address:484 East 16th Street
Hamilton, ON L9A 4K8
Office – 905-385-7891
Dial-A-Sermon number: 905-296-1014

LINDEN PARK FUNDSCRIP GIFT CARD FUNDRAISER – Please fill out an order form (on top of mail slots in the Narthex) along with a cheque made out to Linden Park United Church
Due Sun. April 27th

PAPERLESS OPTION FOR ENVELOPES – If you wish to
go paperless, Linden Park offers:
1)PAR (Pre-authorized Remittance). Please email or call Sheri for more information.
2) E-TRANFERS are also available and can be sent to
Lpuc@rogers.com

THIS WEEK AT A GLANCE:

Today: Refreshments following worship

7:00pm Gemini AA

Monday 6:30 pm Beavers & Cubs

Tues. 4:00 pm T.O.P.S L/H
7:00 pm Police Choir Practice

Wed. 8:00 am TOPS – L/H
9:00 am Quilters
9:30 am Bible Study – Library
10:30 am Coffee Time

Thurs. 12:00 pm Gemini AA – Rm. 1
7:00 pm Scouts, Ventures & MedVents

Friday 10:30 am Good Friday Worship
Sat. 10:00 am The United Church of God – L/H

Our Lenten Project this year will be for SOCKS Canada. Your donations can be directed in two ways: i) the general fund – which supports the children, gardens and education; ii) Women 4 Women : W4W: This gift of $30.00 will provide one girl at Joyland Special Needs School with feminine hygiene products and underwear for a full year. Please pick up a sock for your donation. Feel free to make a cash donation. If writing a cheque, please make it out to: SOCKS Canada Relief Organization.
You can also e-transfer your donation to kenyanhugs@gmail.com
security question- name of charity / answer – socks.

May God’s blessings be returned to you as you bless others.

The Blessing of Humility and Hospitality | Luke 14:7-14

March 30, 2025October 6, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Some of my sermon and bible study notes:

1. Humility: Taking the Lowest Place (Luke 14:7-11)

Jesus tells a parable about a banquet where people seek the best seats.
He teaches us to take the lowest place, letting the host elevate us if needed.
Life lesson: Aging brings natural humility—our roles change, and we may feel overlooked.
Key verse: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)
Reflection:
- Have you experienced a time when humility brought a blessing?
- How has growing older taught you humility?

2. Hospitality: Inviting Those Who Cannot Repay (Luke 14:12-14)

Jesus challenges us to welcome those who cannot repay us—true hospitality is selfless.
We often show hospitality expecting something in return, but Jesus calls us to a different way.
Life lesson: Even if we can’t do what we once did, small acts—calls, visits, kind words—reflect Christ’s love.
Key verse: “Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:14)
Reflection:
- Have you ever been blessed by someone’s kindness when you had nothing to give back?
- How can we show hospitality to the lonely or those in need?

3. Living with Kingdom Values

We don’t need recognition—God honors the humble.
We don’t need repayment—God blesses generosity.
Reflection:
- Where can I choose humility in my life?
- Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?
Encouragement: God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of humility and love.

Closing Prayer:
Ask God to help us walk in humility and extend kindness without expecting anything in return, trusting in His eternal promises.

📖 Key Takeaways:
✅ Humility brings unexpected blessings (Luke 14:11).
✅ True hospitality expects nothing in return (Luke 14:14).
✅ God sees, remembers, and will reward every act of love.

Reflection Questions:
🔹 Where can I choose humility in my life?
🔹 Who can I bless with kindness without expecting anything in return?

If this message encourages you, like, comment, and subscribe for more faith-filled content!

🙏 Let’s grow in faith together. Share your thoughts in the comments!

#BibleStudy #ChristianFaith #Luke14 #Humility #Hospitality #Sermon #FaithInAction

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians

March 26, 2025March 26, 2025/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As we approach the final days of Lent, we reflect on the transformative message of Ephesians. This powerful letter reminds us of our calling to walk in the light, redeem our time, and stand firm in faith. Let’s journey together through these last days, drawing strength from God’s Word.

Walking in the Light (Day 23)
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8

Lent is a season of transformation. We were once in darkness, but Christ has made us light. Today, take time to reflect: How is God calling you to shine His light in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your light. Let my actions reflect Your truth and goodness. Amen.

Redeeming the Time (Day 24)
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:16

Time is a precious gift. Lent reminds us to refocus, using our time wisely for God’s glory. Consider how you are spending your days—are distractions pulling you away from His purpose?

Prayer: Father, teach me to use my time for Your kingdom. May my choices reflect Your wisdom. Amen.

Submitting to One Another (Day 25)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21

True submission is about humility and love. How can you serve others with a heart that mirrors Christ’s love? This Lenten season, seek ways to live out His command to love one another.

Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of humility. Help me to serve and love others as You have loved me. Amen.

Strength in the Lord (Day 26)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

Lent can be a time of spiritual challenge, but our strength comes from God. In times of struggle, we must lean on Him. Where do you need His strength today?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in Your strength, not my own. Equip me for the journey ahead. Amen.

The Armor of God (Day 27)
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11

Paul calls us to wear the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Each piece equips us to stand firm in our faith. Are you clothed in His armor daily?

Prayer: Father, clothe me in Your armor. May I stand firm in faith and truth. Amen.

Praying in the Spirit (Day 28)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18

Prayer is our direct line to God. As we prepare for Holy Week, let us deepen our connection with Him. How can you cultivate a habit of prayer in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to pray continually. May my heart always be turned toward You. Amen.

Boldness in Christ (Day 29)
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” – Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul asked for boldness in sharing the gospel. This Holy Week, let’s pray for courage to live and speak our faith. Where is God calling you to step out in boldness?

Prayer: Lord, give me courage to share Your love with others. May I be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Grace Be With You (Day 30)
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” – Ephesians 6:24

As Lent comes to a close, we rest in God’s grace. His love sustains us beyond this season. May our journey not end here, but continue with renewed faith and devotion.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your grace. May I walk in Your love always. Amen.

As we conclude our Lenten journey, let’s carry these lessons into our daily lives. May we continue walking in light, redeeming our time, submitting in love, standing strong, and boldly proclaiming Christ’s message. May His grace sustain us in every season. Amen.

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core