For the Journey – May 2025

“They will proclaim His righteousness, declaring to a people yet unborn, He has done it!” Psalm 22:31
 
We are reminded, especially at Easter time, that Jesus came to complete that for which He was sent. Much of the Old Testament tells us of God’s provision and care for His people. As we look back through the Scriptures, we see how it tells of Jesus’ coming and His provision for us. When we declare Jesus as our LORD we line up with God’s purpose for our very existence. The world has tried since creation to fill what can only be occupied by Christ. We fail ourselves and those around us when we attempt to find another way other than God’s way.
 
I am reminded of Jesus’ words to His disciples in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father except through Me.” Many have tried to tear apart the exclusivity of Christianity making their own claim that there must be another way. Jesus clearly says differently, but the promise of the previous verse is that God has made the way for us to get to Him. Yes, no one comes to the Father except through Jesus, but praise God, the way has been provided by God.
 
In an article appearing in the New York Times this month, Americans Haven’t Found a Satisfying Alternative to Religion, the author describes the benefits of religion. It is described as the “three B’s.” Belief, belonging and behaviors seem to provide stability which is necessary to be happier, healthier, and more fulfilled. I would add, religious people may experience these but they are not understood in religion but in relationship. It is in a faith relationship with Jesus that we move behind happiness, health, and fulfillment to joy, empowerment and purpose.
 
I am grateful that our message at Trinity is not about picking up some added health benefit or daily habits, but to dig deeper into a relationship with Jesus who makes the difference in our lives. That is the story of Resurrection. That is the story of transformation. 
 
Thanks to all who helped us celebrate the Resurrection of our LORD so well on Resurrection Sunday. It has been an eventful month as we prepared and shared the Victor as a church to our community. It is encouraging to see people moving toward steps of obedience through baptism and stewardship. We anticipate from week to week the faithful investment of kingdom ministry through our Faith Family.
 
From the cross Jesus declared, “Tetelestai.” It is finished. But Jesus was not done. Jesus is still at work in us, for us, and through us. Jesus will make a difference not only in our lives but in the lives of all around us, wherever we are and wherever we are going. This is not a transaction of religion, but a transformation of relationship. See you on the journey.