Tag: Unity

Beyond the Chaos

Today’s a new day! My heart breaks for America,

Turn on the news and all I see is chaos,

A country divided, fractured and torn.

I don’t care if you voted left, right, or somewhere in between,

If your heart’s not breaking for the hurt and pain we see,

You might need to check your pulse and see if you’re still alive.

We scream and we shout, we dig in our heels,

But the truth is, we’re dying, we’re losing our way.

We’re so busy building walls, we’re forgetting to build bridges,

We’re so busy pointing fingers, we’re forgetting to hold hands.

Dear God, please help America come together,

Put away our differences, and actually live

Like the United States of America.

Help us see the humanity in each other,

Help us hear the cries of the broken and the pain.

Help us love like You loved, with a love that’s radical and true,

A love that unites, a love that heals, a love that’s new.

We need a revival, a awakening,

A return to compassion, to empathy, to love.

We need to see each other, not as enemies, but as brothers and sisters,

United in our struggles, in our hopes, in our dreams.

Let’s rise up, let’s rise above,

The noise, the hate, the fear, the pride.

Let’s be the change, let’s be the love,

That America needs, that the world needs, that we all need today. ~OC

0

Finding Purpose In The Pause

Lately, I’ve been getting a few messages asking how I’m doing, and how I spend my days. Honestly, it’s a bit of a challenge, but I continue to find beauty in the struggle. As I navigate this crazy beautiful journey with multiple health issues, I am reminded that life is not easy. It’s a little harder getting around these days, so I spend most of my days at home. 

My health journey is a rollercoaster, and it’s okay to admit that it’s tough. Some days are better than others. But my constant desire is to walk closer with God every day and to connect with other people. Trying to put my thoughts together to write these days is much harder, but God helps me through,  because it’s my way of connecting with people and letting those who are struggling know they’re not alone. If I didn’t share, I’d be stuck in silence, alone and that’s a lonely place to be.

My days are pretty simple. I spend most of my time in prayer, trying to write and read when my body allows. It’s not glamorous, but it’s my reality. And you know what?  I am learning to find purpose in the pause, to cherish the quiet moments, and to share my story with others who might be walking a similar path.

I am not writing this for sympathy or to complain. I’m writing this to remind society, that people walking through health battles still need and want to connect with others. I am the same person I have always been, just a little slower. But my story isn’t over yet. And I want people walking through their own storms, to know that you’re seen, you’re heard, you’re loved and you’re not alone. 

As I continue on this journey, I’m grateful for the few friends who have decided to stick around, even when life gets hard.  And to those who’ve disappeared, I am doing my best to understand why. But I am learning to cherish the ones who stay and to find joy in the connections we have made along the way.

If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. Keep writing, keep praying, and keep pushing forward. And if you need someone to talk to, I am a phone call away. Let’s connect and walk this journey together. ~OC

0

Unity

Today’s a new day! We stand as one, yet we’re fractured, divided

Christians, believers, but our unity’s on the other side

Of racial lines and cultural pride

But God’s got a different plan, a vision to unify

We’re all part of the body, interconnected like limbs

No longer strangers, but family, redeemed by Him

Breaking chains of division, we’re embracing our ties

Unity in Christ, that’s where our hearts arise

No more Jew nor Gentile, no more black or white

In Christ, we’re one, shining with His light

Cultural differences, they’re not erased

But celebrated, as we worship side by side, in His gaze

God’s love is the glue, binding us together

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we’ve found our tether

No more walls of hostility, we’re breaking free

Unity among Christians, that’s the reality

We’re called to love, to serve, to lay down our pride

Embracing our differences, as we walk side by side

In Christ, we’re united, one body, one heart

Let’s rise up, and let our unity shine. ~OC

0

Not So Different

Today’s a new day, as I continue to walk this crazy beautiful health journey, my body continues to decline and time is limited

but, a beautiful thing as happened along the way, 

These days, I truly see people for who they really are, 

just folks trying to make it in life like me,

Trying to live in peace, with hope and a chance to dream

In hospitals and waiting rooms, I meet strangers not by chance, but I believe by divine appointments, 

And though our stories differ, our hearts beat with the same dance

We’re all searching for hope, for healing and for peace

And in our shared humanity, our differences release

We’re not so different, you and me

We’re both just trying to live a life full of hopes and dreams, 

We’re all just trying to make our way

Through the noise, through the fray

But still we divide, we separate and we fight

Over opinions and beliefs, we draw lines in the sand,

We let our differences define us, we let them tear us apart

And in the process, we lose the beauty of the human heart

We forget that we’re all in this together, we’re all on the same team

We’re all just trying to live, to love, to dream

We’re all just trying to make a way, to find our place in this world

And in our shared struggles, our hearts can expand 

We’re not so different, you and me

We’re both just trying to live a life full of hopes and dreams,

We’re all just trying to make our way

Through the noise, through the fray

So let’s sit down, let’s talk, let’s share our stories and our fears

Let’s find common ground, let’s wipe away our tears

Let’s look beyond our differences, let’s see the humanity in each other’s eyes

And let’s remember that we’re all in this together, we’re all on the same side

We’re not Us versus Them, we’re just Us, trying to make our way

Through the ups and downs, through the darkness and the gray

We’re all just trying to live, to love, to be

And in our shared humanity, we can find unity.

My hope is that we can learn to see

Beyond the surface level, beyond you and me

My hope is that we can find a way

To come together, to seize the day

To put aside our differences, to lay down our pride

To look into each other’s eyes, and see the other side

To find the common ground, to find the love we share

And to live together, with hearts that truly care. ~OC

0

True Friendship

Today’s a new day! A true friend is not the one who is there just during the good times, but is the one who decides to stay with you during the darkest storms.

The measure of true friendship isn’t found in shared moments of celebration and easy times, but in unwavering support during life’s toughest storms.

A true friend doesn’t desert you when challenges arise; instead, they stand by your side, offering comfort, strength, and unwavering support. Their presence is a steadfast anchor in turbulent waters, a source of solace and encouragement that helps you navigate life storms and emerge stronger on the other side.

This steadfastness, this unwavering commitment in the face of adversity, is the hallmark of a friendship that truly endures. ~OC

0

New Year’s Prayer

Dear God,

As we start a brand new year, we come before you with hearts full of hope and minds full of dreams. We pray for a world where love conquers fear, kindness triumphs over cruelty, and compassion heals the wounds of division.

May this year bring us closer to your vision of peace, justice, and harmony. May we strive to be the change we wish to see, to lift each other up, and to make a difference in the lives of those around us.

May our leaders be guided by wisdom, integrity, and a deep commitment to the common good. May our communities be strengthened by diversity, and a spirit of belonging.

May this year bring us joy, laughter, and adventure. May we find happiness in the simple things, and may our hearts be filled with gratitude for the blessings we enjoy.

And when the road ahead seems uncertain, may we draw strength from your promise to be with us always. May we trust in your goodness, your mercy, and your love.

In the spirit of hope and renewal, we offer this prayer, dear God. May your will be done, and may your kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven….Amen ~OC

0

Beloved

Today’s a new day! Have you ever noticed the word Beloved is just the words Be Loved? Today, sit in that truth. ~OC

0

Finding Purpose in the Storm

Today’s a new day! As I sit in this hospital room, surrounded by beeping machines and the business of staff, I am reminded that my purpose extends far beyond my physical body. In the midst of uncertainty and pain, I pray: Dear God, use me for your purpose during this hospital stay and every day as I continue to fight through this crazy beautiful health journey.

For me it’s a prayer of surrender, of trust, and of faith. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, God’s love and patience remain unfailing.

Embracing the Unknown:

When we’re faced with the challenges of life, it’s easy to feel like our lives are spinning out of control. But what if we flipped that perspective? What if this season of uncertainty is an opportunity to discover a deeper sense of God’s purpose for our lives?

For those walking through their own “crazy beautiful journey,” I encourage you to pray the following: Dear God, use me for your purpose… I am thankful for your unfailing love and patience with me.

Practical Ways to Find Purpose:

1. Prayer and Reflection: Take time each day to connect with God. Reflect on your experiences, and ask Him to reveal His purpose for your life.

2. Support Loved Ones:Reach out to family and friends, and let them know you’re thinking of them. Sometimes, a simple text, handwritten note or phone call can bring joy to someone’s day.

3. Share Your Story: Consider sharing your journey on social media, a blog or write a book. Your story might encourage others who are facing similar challenges.

4. Find Ways to Serve: Even in a hospital room, you can serve others. Share words of encouragement with the staff, pray for the staff and others walking down the hall. Show kindness and respect to everyone you encounter today.

A Prayer of Thanksgiving:

As I continue to navigate through this health journey, I am grateful for God’s unfailing love and patience. I’m thankful for a loving and supportive bride, I am thankful for my medical team that’s been taking care of me for many years, I am blessed by the the loved ones who pray and support me, and for the opportunities to grow in my faith.

If you happen to be reading this post and are facing your own challenges, know that you’re not alone. You’re loved, you’re valued, and you’re part of a larger story.

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Jesus, use us for your purpose during the stressful times of life and every day as we continue to navigate through this journey called life. We’re thankful for your unfailing love and patience with us. Amen

Challenge of the Day:

How can you use your life experiences, past and present to bless and help others today? ~OC

0

Our Prayer

Today’s a new day! As we look at the news or scroll through social media, there is so much division. So I wanted to share the following this morning. ~OC

Dear God, our world feels so divided, even within families and friendships. Help us be a peacemaker in our relationships, building bridges instead of walls. Show us how to listen and understand with humility, allowing Your Spirit to guide our words and actions. May Your peace be the foundation of every connection. Amen. 

“Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.”~Ephesians 4:3

0

Christians and Tragedies

Today’s a new day! The past few weeks have been tough for many. So many tragedies happening around America and across the world. I have been saddened by so much hate being posted on social media regarding some of the evil acts of violence. I have been trying to process everything over the past week and did not want to post anything that would cause anymore pain. But today, I am ready to share.

As Christians, we should care when any life is taken through tragic circumstances. It should not matter if we agree or disagree with the person who has been targeted by hateful individuals. So below, is how I choose to respond to tragic events regardless of who the victim is:

  1. Compassion and Empathy: Show love and care for those affected, regardless of differences.
  2. Prayer and Support: Offer spiritual support through prayer and practical help.
  3. Justice and Advocacy: Work towards understanding and addressing the root causes of the tragedy.
  4. Forgiveness and Grace: Embody forgiveness, even when disagreeing with the person involved.
  5. Community and Unity: Come together with others to provide comfort and support.

Here are some biblical references that can help guide how Christians respond to tragedy:

  • Matthew 5:44 (loving enemies and praying for those who persecute)
  • Luke 6:27-36 (loving enemies and doing good to those who hate)
  • Romans 12:14-21 (blessing persecutors and not seeking revenge)

I believe these principles and scriptures can help Christians and nonbelievers navigate through the tough moments we face in life.

Also a word of advice for my brothers and sisters in Christ about responding to social media post. Always remember to handle every situations with kindness, understanding and allow your faith to be a blessing and not a distraction during these complex times. Let your light shine bright at all times.

Thanks for taking the time to read this post. Have a wonderful day. Blessings. ~OC

1

Blog at WordPress.com.

Up ↑