Posted on: July 27th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Welcome, everyone. Today, I want to share a message that is close to my heart, one that I have pondered over countless times. It’s about the importance of prioritizing our spiritual lives over material desires, about seeking God’s kingdom first. This is a call to live with intentionality, integrity, and a focus on what truly matters.
The Power of Spiritual Priority
We all have desires and aspirations, such as financial stability or personal achievements. But no material gain should come at the expense of our spiritual well-being. The kingdom of God should be our final destination. It's a place of unending joy, peace, and communion with the saints and our loved ones who have gone before us.
Living with Intentionality
Our daily petitions should prioritize peace, compassion, and authenticity. It's crucial to choose a life that mirrors God’s teachings, to strive for holiness and moral integrity. A life centered on God’s kingdom is a life well-lived. Scriptures remind us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, as everything else will be added to us. As we prioritize this, we place God at the helm, much like a pilot leading a plane.
Understanding Our Forebears
Before the advent of Christianity, our forefathers worshiped God in their ways. They sought balance, avoided abominable practices, and maintained a spiritual connection with the divine. This history reminds us that prioritizing spirituality isn’t new; it’s ingrained in us to seek and maintain a relationship with God beyond physical confines.
Humility and Wisdom
Let’s turn to the example of Solomon, who understood that physical intelligence could never surpass divine wisdom. He asked God for wisdom to lead his kingdom, a testament to the understanding that only through spiritual depth can we truly thrive. Today, we must emulate this by seeking God’s guidance in all aspects of our lives.
Facing Challenges with Faith
We face challenges, battles not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. To withstand this, we’re called to put on the armor of God, to live by faith and prioritize spirituality. Emulating Christ means moving beyond intellectual beliefs to living a life deeply rooted in faith.
Choosing a Life Led by the Spirit
I challenge us to choose spirituality over worldly attractions. The Spirit gives life; the flesh leads to downfall. Joshua 24:15 invites us to choose whom we will serve, and I urge us all to choose God. In doing so, we not only live with purpose but also ensure eternal life.
Conclusion
As we go into the world this coming week, let us live by God's word and Spirit, casting aside the flesh’s temptations. Let us pray for strength to fulfill this commitment, thankful for the guidance of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
In humility and faith, we shall journey together towards a life prioritized by our spirituality. Amen.
Posted on: July 6th, 2025 by St. Stephens Downsview
Introduction
Today’s reflection stems from a pivotal moment captured in St. Luke’s Gospel, chapter 10. We are drawn into the scene where Jesus appoints and sends out his disciples, marking a significant step in his ministry. This is more than just a historical account; it's a narrative that calls us into action and challenges us to understand our role as disciples in today’s world.
The Divine Calling
Jesus appoints, calls, and sends. This action highlights that ministry is not just our idea. It's Christ's work, and we are merely his instruments. This divine call is compelling and rooted in Jesus’ compassion for those who are hurting and restless. Jesus desires for everyone to know the nearness of God's kingdom. His invitation is not just for the select few but for ordinary individuals ready to serve.
Our Role in the Harvest
Jesus sees a plentiful harvest and few laborers. He encourages prayer for more workers to join this mission. We often perceive the church as dwindling, yet there is a world of people yearning for the message of salvation. We are sent into everyday spaces—our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools—to proclaim the good news. We are called to extend a simple invitation: “Join me for worship, share the fellowship, come and hear the message.”
Responding with Courage and Trust
Jesus prepares his disciples for challenges, likening them to lambs among wolves. He emphasizes stepping out in faith, depending less on worldly securities, and more on God’s provision. We are reminded that we do not embark on this mission alone but as part of a community, supporting and uplifting one another.
Handling Rejection with Grace
Rejection is a reality we may face in this ministry. Jesus advises his disciples to shake the dust off their feet and move on when not welcomed. This reflects a respect for others’ freedom to choose while we remain steadfast in delivering the message.
Rejoicing in Belonging, Not Accomplishment
The disciples return joyful from their journey, amazed by the spiritual victories. Yet, Jesus redirects their joy from accomplishment to the assurance of belonging to God. Our worth is not in our successes but in our relationship with God, being loved and held by Him.
Conclusion: Embracing the Call Today
Jesus continues to send us into a world hungry for hope and healing. He calls us to travel lightly, trust deeply, and find joy not in achievements but in our identity as God’s children. As we meditate on this passage, let us examine our hearts: How are we being called to participate in Christ's mission? What burdens must we lay down to trust Him fully? May we respond to His call, live authentically, and allow others to see the nearness of God’s kingdom through us.
May you be blessed as you embrace this calling and become instruments of peace and love in the world. Amen.
