Faith without religion.
Faith, Revelation, and Abundant Living
As we transition from Exodus to Leviticus in our biblical journey, I find myself reflecting on a profound personal revelation that has reshaped my understanding of faith and life. This insight, born from a month-long retreat, has become a cornerstone of what I believe should be part of our collective Yeshuan Library.
For years, I immersed myself in scripture, seeking guidance on how to live a life of faith. Yet, I realized that my understanding was incomplete. I clung to the principles that helped me grow in faith, but I failed to let go of them when it was time to embrace new perspectives. This led to a mindset focused on longing for the afterlife rather than living fully in the present.
The apostles, particularly Paul, offer insights into maturing in faith. They lived in a time of persecution, which shaped their writings and attitudes. However, applying their context to our lives today can lead to misunderstandings. We must balance the spiritual longing for the heavenly kingdom with the responsibility to live abundantly in the here and now.
During a family vacation in Hawaii, surrounded by breathtaking beauty, I struggled to enjoy the moment. My focus was on the spiritual realm, neglecting the gift of life God has given us. This attitude, I realized, was self-absorbed and contrary to the abundant life Christ offers.
Paul’s words in Philippians remind us that while to die is gain, to live is Christ. Our time on earth is an opportunity for fruitful labor, to serve others, and to live joyfully. We must not let a desire for the afterlife overshadow the purpose and joy of living.
This revelation has led me to embrace life with gratitude, seeing it as a gift to be lived fully. It’s a call to balance spiritual maturity with a joyful, abundant life, sharing love and light with those around us. As we continue our journey through scripture, let us remember to live peaceably, serve others, and cherish the life God has given us.
