Garlic is one of my favorite ingredients in food. I absolutely enjoy garlic! The thing about garlic is that when you eat a lot of it, it begins to seep out of your pores. You quite literally carry its fragrance with you. The more you eat, the more you smell like garlic.
This reminds me of what our lives should look like as Christians. We should be partaking of the Bread of Life so often that we carry the fragrance of Christ. That’s the only way to truly bear His aroma. Sermons, devotionals, podcast and commentaries all have their place, but they are kind of like processed food.
If you want the purity of the Bread you must sit still in the presence of God, you must ingest His Word for yourself. When you do, you’ll carry His fragrance wherever you go. Just remember, just as not everyone enjoys the smell of garlic (and it even repels insects), the fragrance of Christ can also repel some. Yet to those who are being saved, it is the sweetest aroma of all.
So may you ingest and digest the Word of God today, and bring the fragrant aroma of Christ into every space you enter.
“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst” John 6:35
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things?” 2 Corinthians 2:14-16
Prayer: May I ingest your Word daily sitting at Your presence ready to be Your fragrance wherever I go so that I might make you known.
Deadlifting is a weight exercise that trains multiple muscle groups at once. It’s the kind of workout where you’re encouraged to train to failure because that’s where growth happens. In pushing through the resistance, strength is built.
Lately, I’ve felt like I’ve been deadlifting burdens. I’ve done it to the point of failure. I know I’m called to the place I’m serving, but that doesn’t make it easy.
I hear confessions, witness pain, and sit with sin, both the kind done to others and the kind they’ve committed. Yes, Jesus bore the weight of the sin of the world. But we still live with the consequences. Broken hearts. Shattered dreams. Lingering wounds. We pick up and gather the broken pieces which feel heavy, even while yoked to Christ.
Jesus said His burden is light, but that word “light” is relative. After all, what’s light to the One who bore it all, can still feel crushing to me.
So, I ask myself, am I carrying it the right way while yoked to Jesus?
Maybe what Jesus meant by His “light burden” is what Paul called the momentary light affliction, because it’s producing in us something eternal. A weight of glory.
When I reflect on the weeks, I’ve spent feeling as though I am deadlifting emotional and spiritual burdens, I realize God is using it to strengthen me for what’s next. That doesn’t make it easy. But it reminds me, it’s worth it.
If you know someone in ministry, reach out. They may be lifting more than you know. Your encouragement could help them carry it to Jesus.
As for me? I’m holding on to the promise that glory outweighs grief, and that rest is found in Christ alone. I am not to be deadlifting burdens but remaining yoked to the One who died for them, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
“For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
“Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
When I first began diligently teaching my children the Word of God, they were just two and four years old—tiny hands folded in prayer, eager hearts soaking in His truth. Today our son is 19, graduating from boot camp in the United States Army, preparing to serve our country as a linguist. Our daughter, now 17, is preparing to graduate high school while working at the very same preschool where I once served when she was just a toddler. Time is like a river—always flowing, never standing still.
Motherhood has been one of the most rewarding callings God has placed on my life. And now, as I find myself in the middle of a season of transition, I am reminded that I must bend, or I will break. I am deeply grateful for the time I’ve had with my children—for the moments I chose to say “yes” to them and “no” to the distractions that would have pulled me away.
This transition is good. It is healthy. It is necessary. And yet, it is bittersweet. I think of the words Jesus spoke to His disciples in John 16:7:
“…it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.”
I see now that it is good for our children to go when their time comes. Their journey forward allows our voices to grow fainter so that the voice of the Father through the Holy Spirit becomes louder and stronger in their lives.
It is good.
Still, transitions often carry a sense of mourning. We mourn what could have been, or we mourn what once was. Yet, God gently reminds us:
“Sorrow may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)
As we navigate these seasons, we must teach our children an important truth: Life will always bring transitions. People will come and go—through moves, broken relationships, or even passing into glory. Our homes, our jobs, our projects—they will all change. But through it all, one thing remains constant: God never changes.
Walking through this transition, I find that 70% of my tears are tears of gratitude—thankful for the sacred moments spent in God’s presence with my children, for the times of worship, for the countless prayers whispered together. The remaining 30% is mourning the reality that time cannot stand still. But if time stood still, wouldn’t it become stagnant? Instead, I choose to rejoice, knowing that joy does come and that in His presence, there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11).
The unity I share with my children is not just in our home but in Christ. It is as Jesus prayed:
“…that they may be one as we are one.” (John 17:22)
To the Mother in Transition, if you find yourself in a season of transition, I am praying for you. I pray you embrace this time with grace. You are not alone. Give yourself permission to mourn, to feel deeply, to process the changes. If you have other children still at home, walk with them through their emotions too—they may not yet have the words to express their own sense of loss. Be patient. Speak openly. Communicate with your spouse, your friends, and most importantly, with God.
And keep pressing on.
Sixteen years ago today, I met Jesus Christ, and Deuteronomy 6:4-9 was one of the first passages that illuminated my heart—to teach my children diligently. This week, I watch our son step into the world, and in just two months, our daughter will graduate high school. Only the Lord knows the depth of gratitude I carry to be called their mother. Only He knows the strength He has given me for this calling.
I know I am not done; we are just entering a new season.
But this week, I pause.
I celebrate.
I stack my stones of remembrance—marking this moment with thanksgiving and giving all glory to God.
There is purpose in pain. Many times, I have been challenged with this truth, but God encourages me through His Word and in hidden treasures of this life such as:
Crushed grapes for wine…
Crushed Olives for oil…
Crushed wheat for bread….
Crushed Savior for salvation
All this crushing brings life, but only One brings eternal life: Jesus Christ. It’s because of Jesus I am equipped to press in and press on. I pray you are doing the same my brethren.
“For God, who said, “Light shall shine out of darkness,” is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.”
As a child I was taught the words of John the Baptist, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world…” I would repeat these words in rote memory, but I didn’t understand what it meant. It wasn’t until I was 33 years old, while reading the book of Hebrews and learning about the sacrificial system, that the truth of those words pierced my heart. My mind was opened to understand and embrace the Gospel, and it brought me to my knees in worship before the living God.
The sacrificial system formally began during the time of Moses when God gave him the Ten Commandments, instructions to build the Tabernacle, and the Levitical Priesthood duties. These detailed which animals were to be sacrificed and for what purposes. Among these, the lamb stood out, symbolizing innocence and purity.
One of the most significant moments in Israel’s history involved the sacrifice of a lamb: the Passover. God instructed the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and apply its blood to the doorposts of their homes. This act of obedience protected them from the plague that struck Egypt, sparing their firstborn and signifying their trust in God.
The lamb was also sacrificed for:
Daily burnt offering in the morning and evening
The sin offering when individuals wanted atonement for unintentional sins
The peace offering which symbolized thanksgiving or fellowship with God
Raising lambs specifically for Temple sacrifices required shepherds who ensured the animals were without blemish and worthy of offering. In biblical times, shepherds were often teenagers or young adults, much like David.
For approximately 1,200 to 1,400 years, atonement for sin was achieved through these rituals and sacrifices. Then, one night, everything changed. An angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem, proclaiming:
“Behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
God sent His message to shepherds—those tasked with inspecting and caring for sacrificial lambs—announcing that their search for the perfect lamb was over. God Himself had provided the Lamb who would take away the sins of the world.
Jesus Christ IS the LAMB OF GOD.
The sacrificial system may seem foreign to us in modern times because we no longer make animal sacrifices for sin. It’s a concept that can feel difficult to fully grasp. Yet, this was God’s command in the Old Testament—to offer sacrifices as atonement for sin. These sacrifices served as a vivid reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for a substitute to bear its penalty.
God’s Word tells us, “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin” (Hebrews 9:22). This truth points us to the ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system: Jesus Christ. His blood was shed on the cross to provide complete and eternal forgiveness for all who believe.
It is through the blood of Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, that we are forgiven and reconciled to God. What the sacrificial system symbolized, Jesus accomplished fully and forever.
It is through the blood of Jesus Christ that death PASSES OVER us.
It is through the blood of Jesus Christ that we no longer must give daily burnt offerings.
It is through the blood of Jesus Christ ALL our sins are atoned.
It is through the blood of Jesus Christ we have PEACE WITH GOD.
This past Sunday, my Pastor posed a thought-provoking question: “Why do you think people, even Christians, become bored with the Gospel?” It struck a chord with me, as it seems many of us have lost our sense of wonder for the Gospel’s beauty and power.
For me, the reasons are many. Sometimes, I get too busy—like Martha, distracted and focused on the wrong things. Other times, my attention is consumed by the brokenness of sinful people and sin itself. I can also find myself slipping into a routine, going through the motions of life without truly acknowledging God, treating each day as business as usual.
But the cure for losing the wonder of the Gospel is: obedience.
Obedience to step out in faith and walk in the good works God has prepared for me. Obedience to abide in Christ, the true Vine, and live a life dependent on His strength and Spirit. This life of abiding in Christ is an adventure. Yes, it is full of trials and tribulations, but in those sufferings, I share in Christ’s sufferings—knowing, through it all, He strengthens me.
Some of the good works God has called me to involve the ministry of reconciliation through Under His Wings. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing miracles—yes, MIRACLES. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. How can we lose the wonder of the Gospel when we push through our fear and step out in faith instead of lingering on the sidelines? I cannot lose the wonder when I live a life that REQUIRES access to the One True God through Jesus Christ by ONE SPIRIT. Just as I need oxygen to live, I need daily faith to remind me that I have EVERYTHING I need for life and godliness in Christ Jesus.
So, just as God asked Adam in the Garden, “Where are you?” What assignment has God given you that requires you to push through fear to faith? Have you stepped out in obedience? Do you truly KNOW God, or do you simply ‘know of’ Him?
I pray that you are experiencing the joy and love found in Christ Jesus. Let us live lives that reflect the reality of the Gospel and the wonder of His grace. As the Moravian prayer declares: “May the Lamb that was slain receive the reward of His suffering.”
The other day I was sharing something very important to me about God to someone I felt would understand. They have an Apple Watch. Do I need to finish the story?
I left the meeting feeling not fully heard or understood. I also felt like an inconvenience, a box to be checked, a speed bump preventing them from their day. It hurt and made me sad. I was offended and angry. When I recounted the offense to my husband, he told me to stop. He did not jump into the tornado of my offense. I saw I have a choice; To continue being offended or forgive. Our Pastor just preached on Matthew 5:21-22 “The devastating Consequences of Anger & Contempt.” How anger and contempt are seeds to murder. I dared to pray and ask God for help to forgive this small offense and forgive me for defiling others in my anger. The next morning, I realized I may not have an Apple Watch, but I have done that to others…to my own children. I have done it with my phone, my laptop, even my journaling. It pierced me to think of the times I made my children feel unseen. Then I realized the times I sat alone with the Lord reading the Bible and journaling, only to interrupt with a “quick check” of my phone, just as this person did with their watch. Then I realized the Truth.
All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We all need grace and forgiveness I am thankful God helped me to obey Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ has forgiven you.” I desire to forgive because I have been forgiven for so much and I do NOT want to grieve and ignore the Holy Spirit who lives in me. The gospel is a supernatural truth and I need the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit to share with others, why would I want to ignore and deny His power?
I’m learning un-forgiveness is a HUGE barrier to experiencing the power, gifts and fruit that God freely gives to those who walk in repentance towards God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Who do you need to forgive? Don’t ignore that nudge in your heart to take that first step.
Who are you? According to Oxford Languages Identity is defined as, “the fact of being who or what a person or thing is.” Discovering who we are is a quest we journey on in life as we look to others for affirmation and acceptance. There is great freedom and peace in knowing the truth of who you are and where you belong. This peace is stolen by berating daunting doubts from one who wants company in his misery. His name is Satan. Lucifer was once enjoying this peace and acceptance until he became discontent and wanted to be God. His consequence was to be brought to the lowest part of the pit of Sheol (Isaiah 14:12-15). In Hebrew Lucifer means, “shining one, light bearer,’ and Satan means “the accuser or adversary.” Today Satan roams and whispers lies to tempt us to doubt our identity.
When Jesus was baptized heaven was opened and the Spirit of God descended like dove and a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17). While Jesus was in the wilderness to be tempted by the devil one of the first temptations was a provocation for Jesus to doubt His identity, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread” (Matthew 4:1-3).
God the Father just affirmed Jesus as the Son of God and that’s the area where Satan goes after first…His identity.
Satan still does this today. He desires discord, disharmony, and discontent. He relishes in destroying relationships beginning with your relationship with God. Hell was never created for you and me. Just for Satan and his followers. Why else do you think Jesus Christ commands us, “Follow Me…” We can either follow Satan to hell or follow Jesus Christ to God the Father in heaven. What is the truth about you? Who are you?
You are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27)
You are deeply loved (John 3:16-17)
You are not perfect (Romans 3:23)
You have been given a gift (Romans 6:23)
If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ and turned to Him, then you are a child of God and there are so many more truths about you Satan tries to deflect and devour.
You are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
You are forgiven (Acts 13:38-39)
You are holy (Ephesians 1:6)
You are redeemed (Colossians 1:14)
You are saved (Ephesians 2:5-6)
As Christians if we are struggling to believe these truths it’s because we are believing a lie from the enemy who is tempting us to doubt our identity in Christ just as Satan did with Jesus in the wilderness. Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy.
Another reason we as Christians struggle to believe these truths could be our hearts are hardened by the deceitfulness of sin in our lives and we have given Satan a foothold. God gave a way out for that too through confession and cleansing (1 John 1:9) and you can do that now.
Jesus Christ came to give life abundantly. The life of a Christian is repentance towards God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Repentance and faith help us to remain in Christ and prevent spiritual theft from the enemy. Keep pressing on my brethren.
“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” 1 John 4:9
*Glorify God, Magnify Christ and Edify the Brethren
A silent suffering takes place each day in this world because it is full of depravity, depression, and darkness. It’s worse when you are surrounded by vanity fair, and everyone looks like they are fine…except you. You are not fine. You are hurting in place no one can see: the heart, soul, and mind.
You go through each day feeling lonely, lost and unseen. There is One that sees you and is near your crushed spirit. There is One that wants to save you and keep saving you. His name is Jesus Christ.
Maybe you do know Him but still experience this sadness because the enemy whispers lies causing you to doubt the goodness of God. You experience this sadness because this world is not your home.
The uninterrupted joy that our hearts yearn for is only found in Jesus Christ. He can take the pieces of our shattered soul and spirit and make something beautiful. It’s hard to believe but it’s true.
I won’t drag or push you. I will just wait here with you and love you through these moments.
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:11
“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, God, You will not despise.” Psalm 51:17
Altar of Heaven 