Shifting Paradigms Of Identity

.We live from our experiences.

The decisions we make, in light of the challenges faced, based upon previous encounters, information and outcomes all work, conspiratorially, i might add, to move us in one direction or another. And should we find ourselves, not liking where that takes us; then we have to figure out what to do differently.

Try a  new experience.
Take a new level of risk.
Get new information.
Change our environment.
Talk with new people.

At some point, you have to break the cycle that causes the frustration.

While, not a hard and fast rule, generally speaking these dynamics are true:

Hurt people, hurt people
Damaged people, damage people
Broke people, will break people

Conversely...

Healed people, heal people.
Forgiven people, forgive people
Restored people, will restore people.

A change in their life, a transformation in their experience, a revelation that life can be different; that we are not dictated by our past, but can be made new... not out of shear will (though that can get you pretty, far, I'll admit); however... made new through the power and the person of Jesus Christ.

Come eternity, you will not be remembered by your job title, your address, the emblem in your garage, the brand label on your jeans. You will not be remembered by your church affiliation, your political point of view or your gender state and interest.

On this #communitySaturday, who will you portray to the world, who you are. Your rights, opinions and assertions? Will you give people a piece of your mind, or a piece of your heart. This is the ability to see and interact with culture through the eyes of Christ. While challenging at times, as we battle our own humanity, the church must remember, that what they have experienced in Christ, is meant for the world to experience.

So, pray, this #communitySaturday, as the church engages culture, that we would point others to Christ. May our interactions be graced with the love and compassion of Christ. May we allow the Holy Spirit to do His work as the condition of man is revealed in the light of Jesus Christ and the truth becomes clear... we are all broken before the cross. We can all be restored because of Him who hung on the cross. Pray for lives transformed; new creations in Christ... not that we may have a better life here on earth, but eternal life for a better time after our death.

Counter-Culture. For the person and purpose of Jesus Christ. To the glory of God.

- PNC

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