Growing in Grace: Spiritual Formation at Every Stage of Life
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen." 2 Peter 3:18 (NIV)
Growing in Grace
Reading "Nurturing Faith: A Practical Theology for Educating Christians" by Fred P. Edie and Mark A. Lamport has been insightful, particularly in understanding how faith is nurtured across different stages of life. Their perspectives on the spiritual formation of children, adolescents, and adults have prompted me to reflect on my experiences in ministry and the profound impact of age-appropriate faith nurturing.
Children and the Power of the Environment
The idea that children absorb faith through their experience rather than through direct teaching is demonstrated weekly at the Light of the World Christian church. I have seen the powerful influence of the environment on young hearts and minds. I recall times when the simplest expressions of faith, a song, a prayer, or an act of kindness have left lasting impressions on children. It reminds me of the biblical call to become like little children in our faith, open, receptive, and responsive to God's presence in our everyday lives.
Adolescents: Harnessing Passion for Growth
Working with adolescents has always been a dynamic and challenging experience. The authors' perspective on channeling the passion of youth is a reality I witness in the youth ministries in our church. We have changed the language of the youth, being the church of tomorrow; they are very much today's church. When guided and nurtured, their energy and enthusiasm can lead to deep, meaningful explorations of faith. I have found that providing opportunities for them to express their faith creatively and engage in mission and service can be incredibly fulfilling.
Adults: Vocation as a Venue for Faith Learning
For adults, the authors propose that faith education extends beyond formal learning to include vocation not just as employment but as a way of living out Christian service and growing in humility. This notion has been pivotal in my ministry approach as I grow older. I understand how adults deepen their faith by valuing daily work and interactions as opportunities to serve and reflect Christ's love. The wisdom that comes with age is invaluable. Whether through professional life, community service, or family responsibilities, every adult has unique opportunities to grow in faith.
Integrating Faith Across Generations
The authors emphasize intergenerational learning and an integrative approach to Christian education. It fosters a sense of community and shared learning that transcends age and background. Something is compelling about different generations coming together, sharing their experiences, and growing in faith collectively. "Nurturing Faith" has prompted me to introspect and reevaluate how we nurture faith from the innocence of childhood to the wisdom of old age
Reflection
How can we create more inclusive and integrative faith formation experiences that appeal to every stage of life within our church community?
Astronauts, Faith & Exploring New Frontiers
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1(NIV)
Journey of Faith
The journey into space, much like the journey of faith, is filled with challenges and opportunities, encouraging us to reach beyond our known limits. This connection becomes even more profound when we consider the stories of individuals like Josh Dobbs, an NFL football player with a deep passion for space, and the astronauts of the Apollo missions.
Josh Dobbs is an aerospace engineer and a National Football quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings. His love for space and science began at a tender age. As a professional athlete interested in space exploration, he embodies the spirit of exploration and the pursuit of excellence in multiple fields. It echoes a sentiment that is as relevant in our spiritual journeys as it is in space exploration: unity, cooperation, and purpose can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Josh says he has been deliberate. “I think you have to have a plan at the end of the day to see the bigger picture and take advantage of opportunities to bless and empower others in my community. Help them to become.”
This sentiment aligns beautifully with the Apollo mission, particularly the episode "Galileo was Right." This episode showcases the astronauts' transition from their primary roles into becoming lunar geologists. They embraced the challenge of learning earth sciences, exemplifying adaptability and continuous learning. Their journey from being pilots and engineers to proficient geologists is not just a story of academic achievement but of transformation and adaptation.
The astronauts' preparation for the lunar mission resonates with Hebrews 11:1, which speaks of faith as "confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Just as astronauts trained for a mission beyond the familiar confines of Earth, our faith often calls us to venture into the unknown, trusting in promises yet unseen.
Applying Lessons to Spiritual Formation
The recreation of the physics experiment proving Galileo's theories is a powerful metaphor for spiritual communities. It reminds us that scientific or spiritual truths withstand the test of time and space. It also emphasizes the importance of experiential learning.
For congregational leaders, this episode of the Apollo series emphasizes the value of hands-on experience and critical thinking. Encouraging congregants to actively engage with their faith, question, and explore spiritual matters can lead to deeper understanding and formation, much like the astronauts' hands-on geological training.
In conclusion, "Galileo was Right" offers more than just a scientific narrative; it provides a template for effective leadership in spiritual formation. By embracing the spirit of exploration, continuous learning, and adaptability the Apollo astronauts exemplify, leaders can guide their communities through the vast and often uncharted territories of faith and spirituality.
Reference- Josh Dobbs: #AthleteAnd Rocket Scientist | NFLPA. https://nflpa.com/posts/josh-dobbs-athleteand-rocket-scientist
Reflection
How can the stories of Josh Dobbs and the Apollo astronauts inspire us in our spiritual journey to explore and embrace stepping into unknown territories of faith formation?"
Theory and Theology: Better Together
An Opportunity to Learn & Grow
Welcome to my reflection on "What Makes Education Christian?" Chapter 2 of "What Makes Education Christian?" by James Riley Estep Jr. guides a complex world where religious beliefs and teaching methods meet. I admit the concepts and terminologies used in this chapter might be challenging and not easily understood for those unfamiliar with theological discourse. Still, the chapter provides an opportunity to learn and grow. It is more than just reading about facts, it is transforming how we think and feel about education.
Reflecting on Chapter 2 of "What Makes Education Christian?" by James Riley Estep Jr. offers insightful perspectives on how Christian education is shaped and practiced. This chapter has given me a deeper insight into teaching and helping people understand their identity, life, and how to interact with the world from a Christian perspective.
With the willingness to engage the concepts in chapter two, the reader can gain valuable insights into what differentiates Christian education from secular education and the importance of integrating faith with learning approaches. Big questions could emerge: What makes Christian education different? How does it change the way we teach and what we aim to achieve? Finding these answers is not always easy, but the exploration is worthwhile.
Prior Definition vs. Current Understanding of Christian Education:
Prior to reading this chapter, my definition of Christian education is mixing biblical principles into teaching. But now, my view has expanded. This chapter reveals how Christian education combines faith (theology) and understanding human behavior (social sciences). It is about what we teach and how we shape our students' worldviews and actions.
Valuing Theology vs. Social Sciences:
Personally, I lean more towards theology than social sciences. Why? Because theology connects us directly with the Bible and spiritual truths. It offers a deeper faith-based understanding of life and existence from a spiritual viewpoint. Social sciences are essential too, but for me, theology anchors these insights.
Fulfillment of Practical Implications:
If I had to rate myself on how well I blend theology and social sciences in teaching, I would say I am a 3 out of 5. While I strive to integrate theology and social science in my educational approach, there is room for improvement, especially in terms of more deeply understanding the interplay between these disciplines.
Areas of Improvement:
This chapter highlights my need to find a better balance. It’s clear now how important it is to weave together theology and social sciences for a well-rounded Christian education. Estep’s insights have encouraged me to reassess my approach to Christian education. I am inspired to explore ways these elements can work hand in hand, not just to inform but to transform lives in line with Christian principles and the church's mission.
Reflection
When thinking about integrating theology and social sciences in Christian education, how can we ensure that our teaching methods convey biblical knowledge and foster a transformative experience in learners' lives?
Faithful Diagnosis of the Context
Why? Reflecting and Interpreting the Ministry of the Light of the World Christian Church
Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age. Matthew 28:18-20
Understanding the “Why”
As a minister serving at the Light of the World Christian Church, I am motivated to examine the nuances of faith formation and discipleship within our congregation to understand the "why" behind our practices in our local context.
The Light of the World Christian Church, established in 1866, was initially known as the Christian Mission Church; its history reflects strong leadership and a commitment to evangelism, service, and inclusivity. Influential pastors like Rev. Henry L. Herod, and Rev. Robert Hayes Peoples steered the church towards addressing social concerns and fostering spiritual growth. The church's affiliation with the Disciples of Christ denomination is critical in shaping its activities and community outreach programs.
Teaching (Didache)
Our foundation lies in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and we strive to live out His message in our daily lives. Sunday school classes meet in person and on the Zoom platform, and a Monday night school class meets on Zoom. Growth groups meet Monday through Saturday, and prayer calls Monday through Saturday at 7am, including callers nationwide who are not members of Light of the World Christian Church. Historically, education has been crucial in faith formation, from early catechism to modern Christian education.
Kerygma
Our mission and proclamation is Matthew 28:19 to "share the Good News of Jesus Christ" and witness "from our doorsteps 'to the ends of the earth.'"
Leiturgia (Worship)
Celebrating the "saving acts and presence of Christ" at the Lord's Table weekly reinforces the significance of Jesus's sacrifice and promotes unity: worship songs, hymns, prayer, preaching, and baptism. Every act of baptism is a proclamation of faith. It is a public confession that signifies an individual's commitment to Christ. For the congregation, witnessing baptism serves as a reaffirmation of the core truths of the Christian faith: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Community Integration and Relationship
Service, outreach programs, and cultural engagement demonstrate the church's connection with its local community. The blended activities, such as Primetime Tuesdays with adults supporting youth from academic studies to board and digital games, highlight the intergenerational focus and commitment to being a 'light' in the community and embodying the scriptural mandate to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16).
Diakonia
From Talley's community garden to weekly meals serving over one hundred underprivileged families weekly or partnering with The Flanner House's Black Book Drive, the church is committed and available to its local community. Aligning with the Christian call to serve the less fortunate and marginalized is a principle deeply embedded in the church's history.
Koinonia
The church's range of activities, from movie nights to women's growth groups, fosters a sense of koinonia reminiscent of the New Testament fellowship model within the Christian community. What naturally happens is the warmth and openness of members and informal gatherings after services. You often hear conversations like, "Let's have lunch or What did you cook for dinner?.
Reflection
Light of the World Christian Church's journey, marked by significant milestones such as embracing its first female pastor, demonstrates its progressive yet grounded approach to faith formation. As the church navigates contemporary challenges, a question is how it can continue to adapt its historical traditions to meet current challenges and deepen its community relationships in an increasingly digital and diverse world.
“Digital Detox: The Need for Sabbath in the 21st Century”
"There remains, then, a Sabbath rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Hearts have always been the issue." Hebrews 4:9-10
Sabbath in the 21st Century
In today's age of technology, we live in a constant state of connectivity and accessibility, sometimes referred to as the "Always On" phenomenon. Our lives are inundated with continuous digital stimuli, ranging from email and text notifications to social media feeds. Technology has enabled global connectivity and bridged gaps but has also challenged the traditional Christian practice of observing the Sabbath.
The Sabbath, a day set apart for rest and spiritual rejuvenation, originates in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Historically, it has been a day to pause from the rigors of daily life. It was time to rest, reflect, and reconnect with the Divine. But how relevant is this ancient practice in our current digital age?
In her book "Always On," Angela Williams Gorrell emphasizes the challenges and necessity of finding balance in our digital age. The constant influx of information and the urge to remain connected can take a toll on our spiritual lives.
Just as our physical bodies need rest, our souls also yearn for a pause, a break from the digital chatter to connect deeply with God.
Our collective neglect of the Sabbath has consequences. It not only affects our spiritual well-being but also the spiritual health of our communities. When we overlook the importance of Sabbath-keeping, we deprive ourselves of the spiritual nourishment and rest that God intended for us. As Sarah Bessey puts it, we must "Rest in our God-breathed worth." Ignoring this divine rhythm of work and rest hinders our ability to experience spiritual wholeness.
Being "sometimes off" in this "Always On" era means intentionally carving out periods devoid of digital distractions. It is a conscious decision to unplug, bask in the silence, pray, and read. It is a time to be present with family, nature, and God. For my faith community, this could mean fostering an environment where Sabbath-keeping is encouraged and celebrated.
It could involve organizing offline retreats, promoting digital detox challenges, dedicating a worship service to the importance of resting and putting away phones during meals, setting up a dedicated day or hour without digital devices, or using that time for personal reflection and community service.
Eugene H. Peterson's insight that the Sabbath helps frame an "attentiveness to your life" is insightful. It reminds us that the Sabbath is not about inactivity but intentional activity. It is about redirecting our focus from the mundane to the sacred, from the digital to the Divine. In the wise words of Henri Nouwen, every act done for the glory of God brings peace to our hearts. So, let us switch off, tune in, and discover the profound peace that the Sabbath promises even in this digital age.
Reflection
How can you practice Sabbath as a personal priority and cultivate it to become a space for authentic rest and restore a connection with the Divine despite the hectic pace and demands of the digital age?
Ending Well: A Semester of Growth and Grace
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen." - 2 Peter 3:18
Growth and Grace
As this semester draws to a close, I am reminded of the reflection paper I submitted during the first week of our course. It was filled with expectations, curiosity, and a desire to connect the dots between theological teachings and real-world applications. As I pause and reflect on the past few months, I find the journey even more enlightening than I had anticipated.
As a member of the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, and with a history in the Missionary Baptist tradition, this semester has been an intersection of old beliefs and new discoveries.
Exploring the works of Wesley, Maddox, Tallon, and Hunter provided ways of understanding salvation from a Wesleyan lens. Maddox's "Responsible Grace" especially resonated with me. Additionally, I related to his emphasis on the difficulty of comprehending the infinite using our limited human language and knowledge. This question helped me understand the complexity of our faith.
Comparing my initial expectations with the reality of the semester, I found that while I hoped for academic enrichment, what I received was much more personal.
The idea of 'responsible grace' shifted from a theological concept to a guiding principle in my daily life. Salvation is not a passive gift; it calls for an active, conscious response from us.
An integral part of this semester has been the Table Talk conversations featuring Dr. Grimm, Dr. Bounds, and Dr. Ebby. Numerous theological complexities from our readings were brought to life in the discussions. The professors' explanations of Wesleyan theology, particularly in the context of practical application, enriched our understanding and prompted reflection and evaluation.
The Maddox video was helpful as it provided a clearer understanding of the author’s complex writing and made it easier to engage. It connected the theoretical with the practical by highlighting the efforts needed to cultivate and exhibit the fruits of the spirit and emphasized how crucial these characteristics are for Christian living.
What does the future hold after this interesting semester? I will be more involved in my spiritual journey now that I have gained a deeper understanding of God's grace and our part. I want to serve with more kindness, honesty, and humility, ensuring that what I have learned in this course impacts everything I do.
As a Christian Church, Disciples of Christ member, the course and perspectives were sometimes challenging. With its emphasis on Christian unity and open communion, the Disciples of Christ occasionally broaden theological notions. Wesleyan sanctification and the rigorous pursuit of Christian perfection were inspiring, but also created questions. How does this rigorous pursuit work into the inclusive tradition of the Disciples? How can we reconcile Christian perfection with the acceptance and unity of my tradition?
These challenges, though, were not roadblocks, but avenues for deeper reflection. They pushed me to reconcile my foundational beliefs with newfound Wesleyan teachings, making my journey this semester all the more enriching.
Prayer
Dear Lord, as this chapter closes, we thank You for the knowledge, growth, and grace we have experienced. Guide us as we take these teachings into the world, letting them shine through our actions. Strengthen our faith and help us remember the lessons learned, ensuring we always respond to Your boundless grace. Amen.
Meditation for the Purpose of God's Grace at the Light of the World Christian Church Disciples of Christ
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing: it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.“ Ephesians 2:8-9
The Purpose of God’s Grace
This scripture emphasizes the essence of grace—a gift freely given from God that has nothing to do with our merit and is based entirely on God's love. In the sanctuary of the Light of the World Christian Church Disciples of Christ, we experience the embrace of God's grace. Before our stories began, this grace prepared a way for us to approach God’s divine heart. It is not just about the redemption of our mistakes but an expression of God’s infinite love for us. As God guides and shapes us into His likeness, we feel the warmth of God's love in the sanctuary.
Reflection
How can you extend this transformative grace to others?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we are humbled and grateful for Your grace that covers, transforms, and elevates us. As we journey with the Light of the World Christian Church Disciples of Christ, may we continually reflect and magnify your image, love, and grace to the world around us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Meditation on the Means of Grace: A Reflection for the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ Community
“He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, “ 2 Timothy 1:9
Means of Grace
In the busy pace of our lives, where seconds blur into days and days into years, we long for a real connection with the Divine. As Disciples of Christ, we have a rich faith heritage that guides us to the transformative "Means of Grace".
The 'Means of Grace' means more than checking off spiritual tasks or performing rituals. Let God's unlimited grace enter our lives through these ways: in breaking bread during communion, sharing stories during Bible studies, providing acts of mercy, and quieting down for personal prayers.
We open our hearts to God's renewed grace when we worship in the sanctuary or in our living rooms. Each murmured prayer and meditated scripture carries God's love, wisdom, and consolation into our being
Take a moment to reflect:
Are we merely going through the motions, or are we truly opening our souls to receive God's grace?
The Lord's Table is very important to the Disciples of Christ community. We remember Jesus' sacrifice and grace as we assemble around it. It is a miraculous instant when everything around us stops and we feel as though we are being held in a divine embrace.
Remember, grace is available outside the church. There are kindnesses, listening ears, and helping hands. Every act of love and compassion channels God's grace.
Prayer
Gracious God, as we ponder the Means of Grace, fill our hearts with gratitude and clarity. May these pathways draw us closer to You. Guide us to be bearers and recipients of Your abundant grace in all we do. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Reflection: Wesley's Salvation Journey within Our Shared Faith
"For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building." (1 Corinthians 3:9, NIV).
Reflection
At its heart, salvation is God's love story for humanity. It is a story that unfolds not in one dramatic moment, but through a journey. The Christian Church's journey is defined by its unrelenting search for wholeness and unity in a sinful world that is getting more and more divided. John Wesley's teachings on salvation are deeply rooted in this grand story. Wesley's theology on grace offers a unique voice in the enormous landscape of Christian doctrines, resonating with our personal experiences along our journey to faith. John Wesley, perceived this journey in a dynamic way, emphasizing that God's saving grace is both a gift and an invitation:
Prevenient Grace: Think of a time when you felt a gentle nudge, a pull towards something greater, even if you couldn't quite name it. This is God’s prevenient grace – the divine whisper that beckons us before we even know Him. It is a reminder that even before we took a step toward God, He was already drawing near to us.
Justifying Grace: There’s a profound moment in this journey where our awareness shifts. We recognize our own shortcomings and God’s boundless love. This moment of realization, acceptance, and faith in Christ’s sacrifice is what Wesley called justifying grace. It is the embrace of God, telling us that we are forgiven, loved, and accepted just as we are.
Sanctifying Grace: The journey doesn’t end at the moment of acceptance. Like any deep relationship, our bond with God continues to evolve. Sanctifying grace is the process through which our hearts and lives are gradually transformed to be more like Christ. It isn't an overnight change, but a lifelong journey of growth, fueled by love and commitment.
Take a moment to reflect:
Where do you find yourself on this journey?
The beauty of Wesley's understanding is that salvation is not a distant, abstract concept. It's an ongoing relationship, a dance of divine love that beckons us closer each day. God initiates, and we respond. He offers, and we accept. He transforms, and we grow.
Prayer: Gracious God, thank You for the journey of salvation. Thank You for always reaching out, forgiving, and transforming us. As we reflect on Wesley's teachings, help us to recognize Your grace at work in our lives and to embrace the fullness of Your love. Amen.