Snapshots and Synapses

On Jan 28th, the Lord gave me this word: "You are anointed in peace, but armed for war!" Tonight, I believe He wants me to release this word to you and from you to others. I believe there is a time of upheaval coming, and that it is very important for us to draw close to Him now (and more with each day) so that He can prepare our hearts, minds, souls and bodies for the trials ahead. John 16:33 says: "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." May Christ's Peace, Joy and Presence be with each of us!

I was raised Roman Catholic, which for me was a good experience. Although I'd now categorize myself as a "charismatic evangelical with an appreciation for the liturgy and reformed theology" (or as a friend of mine puts it: "PresboEpiscomatic"), I gained a lot from the denomination of my parents. One of the things I enjoyed about my Catholic upbringing was the liturgical calendar... a structure to the year that reminded me both of my God and my need for Him. One of the seasons in the liturgical year is Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday (today!). It is a forty day period before Easter, during which believers are encouraged to change habits of thought and behavior as they draw close to God through fasting and prayer – specifically in repentance. I personally plan to spend this season in repentance: I repent of the duality in my heart and mind that has not been fully focused on Christ and His Ways. I repent of my judgmental nature, which reflects the personali...