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Devotional, Series

Keep Christ in Christian, Part 6: Don’t Misrepresent the Gospel

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Read Galatians 1:6-9

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16 NLT)

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly and modified by the author.

Part 6: Don’t Misrepresent the Gospel. In our modern world, the Gospel of Jesus Christ often finds itself twisted and misrepresented, sometimes by the very people who claim to preach it. Two prevalent distortions stand out: the Prosperity Gospel and the conflation of faith with political allegiance.

The Prosperity Gospel reduces Christ’s teachings to a self-help program, promising material success and earthly comfort to those who believe. A prime example of this is Joel Osteen’s ministry. During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Osteen faced criticism for not immediately opening Lakewood Church to flood victims. While the church cited legitimate safety concerns due to flooding risks, this incident highlighted a deeper issue with Osteen’s theology.

Osteen’s teachings, exemplified in his book “Your Best Life Now,” often relegate the Gospel to a 12-step program for success. The message becomes “Live your best life now. That’s what God wants.” But is that really the core of the Gospel? Tell that to Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was executed for his faith opposing the Nazi regime. He clearly missed that memo.

This “gospel” suggests that if we just believe hard enough or give generously enough, God will bless us with wealth and success. But what about believers facing persecution? What about faithful Christians battling poverty or illness? This distorted message fails to account for the depth and complexity of the true Gospel.

Another dangerous misrepresentation occurs when faith becomes entangled with political ideologies. Some religious leaders claim divine endorsement for specific political figures or movements, suggesting that support for particular candidates or parties is a prerequisite for true faith. This approach not only distorts the Gospel but also risks elevating human institutions to a position of ultimate authority—a theme we’ll explore further in our “Don’t Put Government Over God” devotional.

When we conflate our national or political identity with our Christian identity, we risk creating a false gospel that serves our own interests rather than God’s kingdom. The true Gospel transcends all human divisions and ideologies, calling us to a higher allegiance.

The Apostle Paul’s words to the Galatians serve as a stark warning against these distortions: “I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News but is not the Good News at all” (Galatians 1:6-7 NLT).

The true Gospel is not about personal prosperity or political power. It’s about the transformative power of Christ’s love and sacrifice. It calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus—even when that path leads through hardship and suffering. It challenges us to love our neighbors, seek justice, and live in humble obedience to God’s will.

As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to accurately represent the Gospel in both word and deed. This requires careful study of Scripture, a willingness to embrace the full counsel of God’s Word, and the courage to live out our faith even when it conflicts with cultural norms or personal comfort.

Let us strive to keep Christ—the true Christ of Scripture—at the center of our faith and practice. May we resist the temptation to reshape the Gospel into something more palatable or self-serving, and instead embrace its full, transformative power in our lives and in our world.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The Gospel is not a doctrine of the tongue, but of life.” – John Calvin

PRAYER
God, forgive us for the times we’ve misrepresented Your Gospel. Help us to understand and live out the true message of Christ, embracing its full power and challenge. May our lives reflect the transformative love and sacrifice of Jesus, drawing others to Your truth. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 5: Don’t Neglect the Holy Spirit

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Read 2 Timothy 1:6-8

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NLT)

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly and modified by the author.

Part 5: Don’t Neglect the Holy Spirit: Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, it is easier than others, but we all go through tough experiences that we wouldn’t wish on our worst enemies. To do so would only make us guilty of the same kind of hate they stand guilty of. We must refuse to let that happen to us.

My own journey with the Holy Spirit began in an unexpected place: the school playground. When I was in third grade, I started to get bullied. There was this one kid, Mike, who I was friends with until the day he started to bully another kid. Having been raised in a strong Christian home, I knew that wasn’t behavior I should engage in. So, I said no. Well, that suddenly made me an enemy, and Mike would soon get other kids to start making fun of me too. Sadly, this behavior continued from there through high school, growing more extreme as we got older.

One day, outside after lunch for recess, a group of kids, led by Mike, started to make fun of me, threatening to beat me up. I remember being in fear and walking backward up a hill, afraid to turn my back to them. They kept advancing toward me. I was frozen… terrified… and then it came to me. If Jesus was with me, who could stand against me? So, I pointed my finger at them and exclaimed at the top of my voice, “In the name of Jesus, leave me alone Satan.”

Now, here’s the funniest thing. Those bullies started to laugh at me. Well, that’s not the funniest thing. That is what one would expect to happen. Miraculously, though, as they were laughing, they were also walking backwards and eventually turned and walked away. Now, I wouldn’t bank on that “trick” to always be a lifesaving hack against bullies. Rather, it was the power of the Holy Spirit working through my faith in Jesus Christ.

This experience illustrates the transformative power of faith and the Holy Spirit in times of fear and adversity. When we neglect the Holy Spirit, we often rely on our own strength, which can leave us feeling powerless in the face of adversity. However, when we remember to call upon the name of Jesus and lean into the power of the Holy Spirit, we can find strength and courage beyond our own capabilities.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy that “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” This power comes from the Holy Spirit, as Jesus promised his disciples in Acts 1:8. When we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power, we become effective witnesses for Christ, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Neglecting the Holy Spirit can lead to a faith that’s more about our own efforts than God’s power working through us. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we can live the Christian life through sheer willpower or by following a set of rules. But true Christian living is about allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out.

When we actively engage with the Holy Spirit, we open ourselves to the Spirit’s guidance, comfort, and empowerment. We become more attuned to God’s voice and more capable of responding to God’s call with courage and conviction. The Holy Spirit enables us to bear fruit in our lives – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

As we seek to keep Christ in Christian, let’s remember that this includes embracing the full work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Let’s fan into flame the gift of God within us, not neglecting the power, love, and self-discipline that come from the Spirit. May we, like that scared child on the playground, find the courage to face our fears and challenges through the power of the Holy Spirit.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The Holy Spirit is not a blessing from God, the Holy Spirit is God.” – Reinhard Bonnke

PRAYER
God, forgive us for the times we’ve neglected the Holy Spirit in our lives. Help us to be more aware of the Spirit’s presence and power. May we lean on Your strength, not our own, and may we be bold witnesses for You in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 4: Don’t Lose Sight of Jesus

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Read Revelation 3:14-22

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT)

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly and modified by the author.

Part 4: Don’t Lose Sight of Jesus. The church in Laodicea, as described in Revelation 3:14-22, serves as a powerful illustration of what happens when we lose sight of Jesus. Located in what is now modern-day Turkey, Laodicea was a wealthy city known for its banking industry, textile production, and medical school. The church there had become complacent, reflecting the affluent and self-sufficient attitude of the city itself.

Jesus’ words to this church are particularly harsh: “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” (Revelation 3:15-16 NLT). This imagery likely resonated with the Laodiceans, who were familiar with the lukewarm, mineral-laden water that flowed into their city through aqueducts.

The Laodicean church’s fatal flaw was its misplaced focus. They said, “I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!” (Revelation 3:17 NLT). In their material comfort, they had lost sight of their spiritual poverty. They had replaced Jesus with wealth, self-reliance, and complacency.

Jesus’ rebuke to the Laodiceans serves as a wake-up call for us today. How often do we, like them, allow our material comforts, our busy schedules, or our self-sufficiency to push Jesus to the periphery of our lives? How often do we mistake our financial prosperity for spiritual health?

The remedy Jesus offers is clear: “I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see” (Revelation 3:18 NLT). In other words, we need to refocus on Jesus, the source of true spiritual wealth, righteousness, and insight.

Keeping our focus on Jesus isn’t a one-time decision; it’s a daily, moment-by-moment choice. It means consistently turning our attention back to Him, even when—especially when—life is comfortable and we feel self-sufficient. It means recognizing our ongoing need for His grace, guidance, and transforming power in our lives.

As we navigate our own “Laodicean” tendencies, let’s heed Jesus’ call to keep Him at the center. Let’s not be content with lukewarm faith or misplaced focus. Instead, let’s strive to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, “the champion who initiates and perfects our faith” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” – Jesus the Christ (Revelation 3:20 NLT)

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, forgive us for the times we’ve pushed you to the margins of our lives. Help us to keep our focus on you, to recognize our ongoing need for your grace, and to open the door when you knock. May we never become lukewarm or complacent in our faith. In your name we pray, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 3: Don’t Mistake Tradition for Truth

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Read Mark 7:6-8

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” (Colossians 2:8 NLT)

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly and modified by the author.

Part 3: Don’t Mistake Tradition for Truth. In 1984, a controversial Christmas-themed horror film called “Silent Night, Deadly Night” was released, sparking outrage among many Christians and parent groups. The film, which told the story of a traumatized young man who goes on a killing spree dressed as Santa Claus, was met with protests, pickets, and even condemnation from film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert.

Kathleen Eberhardt of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, formed Citizens Against Movie Madness (CAMM) to protest the film. Demonstrators held signs with slogans like “Santa ain’t no hitman” and “Deck the halls with holly not bodies.” Some psychologists warned the film could cause irreparable harm to children, even suggesting it might cause regression in toilet training.

The irony is that many protesters hadn’t actually seen the film. They reacted to marketing materials and assumptions about its content. In reality, “Silent Night, Deadly Night” tells a moralistic tale about the consequences of childhood trauma and the dangers of strict, unforgiving religious upbringing. The film’s director, Charles E. Sellier Jr., was raised Catholic and incorporated critiques of rigid religious practices into the story.

This controversy highlights how easily Christians can mistake tradition for truth. The protesters were more concerned with protecting the image of Santa Claus – a largely commercial figure – than engaging with the film’s actual themes about trauma, abuse, and the dark side of religious authority.

Throughout history, Christians have often elevated traditions to the status of essential truths. We see this in various aspects of church life, from worship styles and music preferences to sermon formats and dress codes. It extends to practices like baptism and communion, where debates over method and frequency can divide congregations. Church governance structures, views on end times, and beliefs about spiritual gifts have led to denominational splits. Even preferences for certain Bible translations or the observance of religious holidays can become points of contention.

Perhaps the most visible example is the perceived “culture war” at Christmastime. Some Christians become upset over the removal of nativity scenes from public spaces or the use of “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.” However, historically, Christmas wasn’t widely observed by early Christians. It became an official holiday on December 25th under Constantine, blending Christian and pagan traditions.

The truth is, the observance of Christmas is ultimately secondary to Easter in the Christian faith. Many of our Christmas traditions, including the date, have more to do with cultural adaptations than biblical mandates. Yet, we often see Christians getting rude and confrontational, insisting that “Merry Christmas” be used, as if this phrase were a core tenet of our faith.

Jesus often challenged religious leaders who prioritized tradition over genuine faith and compassion. In Mark 7:8, He says, “For you ignore God’s law and substitute your own tradition.” Paul warns in Colossians 2:8 against being captured by “empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking.”

When we mistake tradition for truth, we risk losing sight of what’s truly essential in our faith. We may become more concerned with preserving cultural practices than embodying Christ’s love and grace. We might alienate others who don’t conform to our particular traditions, forgetting that the body of Christ is diverse and multi-faceted.

As followers of Christ, we’re called to continually examine our beliefs and practices. Are we holding onto traditions simply because they’re familiar and comfortable? Are we elevating non-essential doctrines to the status of core truths? Are we more concerned with defending our customs than demonstrating Christ’s love?

Let’s remember that while traditions can be meaningful and valuable, they should never overshadow the central truths of our faith: God’s love, Christ’s sacrifice, and our call to love others as ourselves. By focusing on these essentials, we can truly keep Christ in Christian, embracing a faith that’s both grounded in truth and open to the diverse ways God works in our world.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Tradition is the living faith of the dead, traditionalism is the dead faith of the living.” – Jaroslav Pelikan

PRAYER
Loving God, help us to discern between essential truths and mere traditions. Give us the wisdom to hold loosely to our customs while clinging tightly to Your love and grace. May we always seek to keep Christ at the center of our faith and practice. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 2: Don’t Turn Non-Essentials Into Mandatories

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Read Romans 14:1-12

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Don’t speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you” (James 4:11 NLT).

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly and modified by the author.

Part 2: Don’t Turn Non-Essentials Into Mandatories. In May 2024, the United Methodist Church made a historic shift towards LGBTQ inclusion. At their General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, 93% of delegates voted to lift long-standing bans on ordaining LGBTQ+ clergy and allowing clergy to perform same-sex weddings. This decision came after decades of debate and division within the denomination over LGBTQ issues.

The change was celebrated by many, including Rev. Andy Oliver, who had faced potential church trials for officiating same-sex weddings. However, it also highlighted how a non-essential doctrine had caused significant division within the church for years, leading to what some described as a “denominational divorce” and causing harm to LGBTQ individuals within the Methodist community.

Just three weeks later, on May 21, 2024, another powerful moment unfolded in Eastern Pennsylvania. Beth Stroud, who had been defrocked as a United Methodist Church pastor in Philadelphia in 2004 for being in a same-sex relationship, was reinstated as a full member and pastor in the UMC. The reinstatement occurred during a closed session of about 200 ordained clergy from the UMC’s Eastern Pennsylvania region, where Stroud exceeded the two-thirds vote requirement for readmission. As one of the clergy present in that session, I witnessed this historic moment firsthand. Stroud, overcome with emotion, described her experience: “I was completely disoriented. For what felt like several minutes I couldn’t tell where the front of the room was, where I was, where I needed to go. Everyone was clapping and then they started singing.” She was presented with a red clergy stole symbolizing her status as a fully ordained member of the clergy.

These events highlight a crucial issue within Christianity: the tendency to elevate non-essential doctrines to mandatory status. For decades, the UMC and many other denominations have been deeply divided over LGBTQ inclusion, treating it as a make-or-break issue of faith. But is this truly an essential doctrine of Christianity?

Jesus never spoke directly about LGBTQ issues. His message consistently emphasized love, acceptance, and the inherent worth of all people. He challenged religious leaders who used doctrine to exclude and marginalize others. Paul, in our main scripture, urges us not to “quarrel over disputable matters” (Romans 14:1 NLT).

When we turn non-essential doctrines into mandatories, we risk losing sight of Christ’s central teachings. We create division where there should be unity, exclusion where there should be welcome. The harm done to LGBTQ Christians, like Beth Stroud, who have been excluded from full participation in church life, is a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions.

As Christians, we are called to focus on the essentials of our faith: love for God and neighbor, the saving grace of Christ, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Everything else, including our interpretations of specific biblical passages or traditional church teachings, should be held more loosely.

This doesn’t mean these issues aren’t important or that we shouldn’t engage in thoughtful discussion about them. But it does mean we should approach them with humility, recognizing that faithful Christians can and do disagree on many matters.

By keeping our focus on Christ and His essential teachings, we create space for diversity within unity. We allow for growth, change, and a fuller expression of God’s love in our communities. Most importantly, we avoid the trap of legalism that Jesus so often warned against.

As we reflect on the UMC’s journey towards LGBTQ inclusion, let’s consider: What non-essential doctrines might we be elevating to mandatory status in our own lives or churches? How can we refocus on the essential teachings of Christ, creating a more inclusive and loving community of faith?

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” – possibly Marco Antonio de Dominis

PRAYER
Loving God, help us to focus on the essentials of our faith, grounded in Your love and grace. Give us the wisdom to discern between essential and non-essential doctrines, and the courage to create inclusive communities that reflect Your all-encompassing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 1: Don’t Conflate Christ with Country

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Read John 18:33-38

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“This world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.” (Hebrews 13:14 NLT)

We’ve all seen the bumper magnets and bulletin signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” While well-intentioned, this phrase often misses the mark. It focuses on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge we face isn’t just keeping Christ in a holiday—it’s keeping Christ in Christian.

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly.

Part 1: Don’t Conflate Christ With Country. In recent years, Pastor Robert Jeffress of First Baptist Church in Dallas has made statements that seem to prioritize national identity over the universal love Jesus preached. For instance, he has repeatedly referred to America as a “Christian nation,” suggesting that Christianity should hold a privileged position in American society.

This perspective appears to misrepresent Jesus’ teachings in significant ways. While Jesus spoke of a kingdom, He made it clear that His kingdom was “not of this world” (John 18:36 NLT). He taught a message of love that transcended national boundaries, emphasizing care for the stranger and love for one’s enemies. By conflating Christianity with national identity, Jeffress’s message risks distorting the universal, boundary-breaking nature of Jesus’ love and the global scope of God’s kingdom.

Søren Kierkegaard, the 19th-century Danish philosopher and theologian, offers a powerful counterpoint to Jeffress’s nationalistic Christianity. Kierkegaard was deeply critical of what he called “Christendom,” a term he used to describe the nominal Christianity of his day where being a Christian was conflated with being a citizen of a “Christian nation”.

For Kierkegaard, true Christianity was about an individual’s passionate commitment to following Christ, not about national identity or cultural Christianity. He argued that “Christianity is related to the individual,” while Christendom is related to “lower notions of religion,” specifically to “national religion and national God”. This critique directly challenges the idea of America as a “Christian nation” that Jeffress promotes.

Kierkegaard believed that merging Christianity with national identity leads to a watering down of faith, turning it into a comfortable cultural identity rather than a challenging call to discipleship. He wrote, “Where all are Christians, the situation is this: to call oneself a Christian is the means whereby one secures oneself against all sorts of inconveniences and discomforts”. This echoes Jesus’ teachings about the narrow path and the cost of discipleship, which are often overlooked in nationalistic forms of Christianity.

Moreover, Kierkegaard emphasized that Christianity was not about establishing earthly kingdoms or political power, but about transforming individuals through a personal relationship with God. This aligns more closely with Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom of God being within us (Luke 17:21 NLT) than with attempts to create a “Christian nation” through political means.

In light of Kierkegaard’s critique, we are challenged to examine our own faith. Are we following Christ as individuals, regardless of our national identity? Or have we allowed our Christianity to become a comfortable cultural identity that doesn’t challenge us to love our enemies, care for the stranger, and put God’s kingdom above all earthly allegiances?

As followers of Christ, we are called to be salt and light in our communities and nations. But we must always remember that our primary citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20 NLT), and our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not any earthly nation.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The highest and most beautiful things in life are not to be heard about, nor read about, nor seen but, if one will, are to be lived.” – Søren Kierkegaard

PRAYER
Lord, help us to follow You as individuals, not relying on cultural Christianity or national identity. May we seek Your kingdom first, loving all people as You have loved us. Give us the courage to live out our faith authentically, even when it challenges societal norms. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional

Righteous Defiance

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Read Ephesians 6:10-13

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’” (Matthew 25:40 NLT)

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly

In times of moral crisis, Christians are called to stand firm against evil, even when doing so comes at great personal cost. This call to righteous defiance is not about rebellion for its own sake, but about aligning ourselves with God’s will and standing up for what is right, regardless of the consequences.

The metal band Demon Hunter captures this spirit of righteous defiance in their song “The World Is a Thorn.” The title itself evokes imagery of a world that can wound and cause pain to those who seek to follow Christ. The lyrics speak of refusing to bow to earthly authorities or systems contradicting God’s will. This echoes the biblical call to be in the world but not of it.

In “The World Is a Thorn,” Demon Hunter powerfully declares defiance against a world where God is mocked. But what mocks God more than Christians who praise God on Sunday, yet worship the world every other day of the week? This hypocrisy is evident when believers engage in unethical business practices during the workweek, consume media that glorifies values contrary to their faith, or treat others with disdain despite preaching love on Sundays. It’s seen in those who give offerings at church but cheat on their taxes, or in those who speak of God’s love yet discriminate against others based on race or social status. Such inconsistency between Sunday worship and daily living not only mocks God but also damages the credibility of Christian witness in the world.

History provides us with powerful examples of genuine righteous defiance. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and pastor during World War II, exemplified this courage in the face of unimaginable evil. From the moment Hitler rose to power, Bonhoeffer recognized the threat and spoke out against it. He helped found the Confessing Church, which stood in opposition to the Nazi-influenced German Christian movement. Even as the risks grew, Bonhoeffer remained steadfast in his conviction that Christians must actively oppose evil.

Bonhoeffer’s resistance went beyond words, yet it was far from a simple tale of heroism. He used his position to help Jews escape and became involved in plans against Hitler’s regime. However, Bonhoeffer was deeply troubled by his own actions. He saw them not as morally justified, but as grave wrongs for which he sought God’s forgiveness. “When a man takes guilt upon himself in responsibility,” he wrote, “he imputes his guilt to himself and no one else. He answers for it… Before other men he is justified by dire necessity; before himself he is acquitted by his conscience, but before God he hopes only for grace.” Bonhoeffer knew the dangers, yet he chose to act, believing that to do nothing in the face of evil was to be a silent witness to it. His internal struggle and ultimate sacrifice stand as a testament to the complex moral dilemmas faced by those who resist injustice.

Even today, we see faith leaders risking their positions and reputations to speak truth to power. They remind us that our faith calls us to more than just personal piety or theological correctness. It demands active, compassionate engagement with the world around us, especially in defense of the vulnerable and marginalized.

This call to action is clearly outlined in Matthew 25:31-46, where Jesus tells us that when we serve “the least of these” – the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned – we are serving Christ himself. This passage challenges us to consider: Are we willing to defy societal norms, unjust systems, or even our own comfort to stand up for those in need?

As we navigate these challenges, let us draw strength from Paul’s words in Ephesians 6:10-13. We are called to put on God’s full armor, stand firm against the schemes of the devil, and struggle not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. This reminder grounds our defiance in faith, ensuring that our actions are driven not by self-righteousness or anger, but by love and a commitment to God’s justice.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer

PRAYER
Holy and just God, grant me the courage to stand firm against evil, to speak truth to power, and to serve the least around me. May my life reflect Your love and justice in this world. Strengthen me to defy injustice and to stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional

Shadow of the Vampire

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Read Psalm 88

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5 NIV)

Image: AI-generated by Rev. Todd R. Lattig using Adobe Firefly.

Those of you who know me are aware that I’m a fan of horror, particularly Robert Eggers’ work such as ‘The Witch,’ and a huge admirer of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent film ‘Nosferatu.’ In fact, I rescored ‘Nosferatu,’ which can be found on all major streaming services under the artist name Appalachian Virtual Ensemble, and also viewed, in its entirety on YouTube. So, when I heard that Eggers was remaking this classic tale, I was thrilled to see his vision come to life on the big screen.

Video: Nosferatu, eine Symphonie des Grauens (1922) – F.W. Murnau’s silent film, here presented in full with a rescore.

In Eggers’ haunting rendition of “Nosferatu,” we encounter Ellen, a young woman plagued by an overwhelming sense of melancholy. From her earliest years, she feels a deep loneliness that seems to call out to the darkness. This portrayal resonates with many who struggle with inner turmoil, feeling isolated even when surrounded by others.

As a pastor who has grappled with melancholy since childhood, I can relate to Ellen’s experience. My journey began early, manifesting as separation anxiety in preschool and evolving into a more profound sadness by my teenage years. Throughout this struggle, my faith has been a constant source of strength and comfort. The raw emotions expressed in the Psalms, the accounts of Jesus’ own moments of sadness, and the prophets’ cries for help have all offered solace in times of despair.

Like Ellen, I also found myself drawn to creative expression, turning to poetry as an additional means of coping with the darkness that seemed to lurk just beneath the surface of my everyday life.

In the film, Ellen finds a brief respite in her relationship with Thomas. This mirrors the temporary relief many of us seek in relationships, achievements, or fleeting pleasures. However, just as Ellen’s inner darkness returns with a vengeance, our struggles often resurface even when we think we’ve overcome them.

This persistent nature of melancholy can be particularly challenging for those in positions of spiritual leadership. As a pastor, I’ve felt the weight of expectations to always appear cheerful and optimistic, even when struggling internally. The misunderstandings surrounding inner turmoil, as depicted in Ellen’s interactions with others in “Nosferatu,” are all too familiar. Well-meaning advice to “snap out of it” or “think positive” fails to grasp the complex nature of our struggles. These misconceptions can lead to feelings of isolation and a reluctance to share our true experiences with others.

Yet, unlike Ellen, who feels drawn to the shadows, we as believers have a source of hope beyond the darkness. In John 8:12, Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” This promise offers solace even in our darkest moments.

The Psalms teach us the importance of bringing our pain and sorrow to God. Psalm 88, a lament that doesn’t shy away from expressing deep anguish, reminds us that it’s okay to acknowledge our struggles while still clinging to faith. By choosing to lament, we open our hearts to God and create space for healing and transformation.

Unlike Ellen, who feels isolated in her suffering, we are called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). By opening up about our struggles and supporting others in theirs, we can find strength and healing in Christian community. This act of vulnerability, while challenging, can be a powerful testament to God’s grace working in our lives.

As we reflect on the haunting tale of “Nosferatu,” let us remember that while darkness may seem overwhelming, it does not have the final word. In Christ, we find a light that the darkness cannot overcome. May we turn to God in our moments of melancholy, finding hope, healing, and the strength to persevere. And may we, in turn, be that light for others who are struggling, offering understanding, support, and the transformative message of God’s love.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Nothing heals us like letting people know our scariest parts: When people listen to you cry and lament, and look at you with love, it’s like they are holding the baby of you.” – Anne Lamott

PRAYER
Lord, in moments of darkness and despair, help me to turn to You, the true light of the world. Grant me the strength to persevere, the wisdom to seek support from my community of faith, and the courage to be vulnerable with others. Use my experiences to bring comfort and hope to those who are struggling. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

MENTAL HEALTH NOTE
If you’re grappling with melancholy/depression or darker thoughts, remember that you’re not alone in this struggle. Reach out for support – it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. For those in the U.S., the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988. It’s free, confidential, and could be the lifeline you need in moments of despair. If you prefer texting, send ‘HOME’ to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line.

For readers outside the U.S., resources like Befrienders Worldwide and the International Association for Suicide Prevention offer helplines and support services across various countries. These organizations embody Christ’s call for us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Remember, just as the Psalmist cried out to God in times of anguish, it’s okay to voice your pain and seek help. In the words of Anne Lamott, “Nothing heals us like letting people know our scariest parts.” May we all have the courage to be vulnerable, to seek support, and to offer it to others in their time of need.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

Devotional

Star-Struck Seekers

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Read Matthew 2:1-12

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24 NLT).

Image: Generated by author using Adobe Firefly.

When I was in seminary, I read a book titled, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, where a young Andalusian shepherd named Santiago embarks on a transformative journey. Inspired by a recurring dream of finding treasure near the Egyptian pyramids, Santiago sells his flock and sets out across the Strait of Gibraltar to North Africa.

His quest is far from easy. In Tangier, thieves rob Santiago of all his money, forcing him to find work with a crystal merchant to survive and save for his onward journey. This setback alone delays his travels by nearly a year.

Eventually, Santiago joins a caravan crossing the Sahara desert. During this leg of his journey, he meets an Englishman studying alchemy and learns about the Soul of the World and the importance of pursuing one’s Personal Legend. At an oasis, Santiago falls in love with Fatima but realizes he must continue his quest despite his desire to stay.

The most pivotal moment comes when Santiago meets a 200-year-old alchemist who becomes his spiritual guide. Under the alchemist’s tutelage, Santiago learns to read omens, listen to his heart, and understand the Language of the World.

Santiago’s journey, spanning years and fraught with challenges, detours, and moments of profound realization, bears striking parallels to another epic quest—the journey of the wise men in the Epiphany story.

In Matthew 2:1-12, we read about magi from the East who follow a star to find the newborn King of the Jews. Their arrival could have happened anywhere from two weeks to two years following Jesus’ birth, and there journey was filled with uncertainty and obstacles. Like Santiago, these wise men faced challenges along their path; they first arrived in Jerusalem, expecting to find the king in a palace but instead encountered confusion, doubt and the watchful, jealous eye of King Herod.

The length of their journey signifies their commitment to seeking truth. They didn’t give up when faced with difficulties or when their expectations were challenged. Upon finally reaching Bethlehem, they found humble manger instead of a glorious throne. Yet their response was one of profound joy as they recognized the divine presence in a completley unexpected place.

The Epiphany account begs of us to reflect on our own spiritual journeys. Are we persistent like the magi in our search for Christ? Do we remain open to finding Jesus in unexpected places? Just as Santiago learned that true treasure lies not just in reaching a destination but in the experiences along the way, we too are called to embrace our journeys with faith and determination.

Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us to work wholeheartedly in everything we do as if working for the Lord. This applies not only to our spiritual quests but also to our daily lives. The wise men offered their gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—not just materially but as an expression of their devotion and reverence for Christ. The gold was a gift for a king. The frankincense for the High Priest of God, and the Myrrh a preparation for the sacrifice the Christ-child was to make in only thirty-three short years.

As we navigate our own paths, let us remember that every challenge can lead us closer to understanding God’s purpose for us. The wise men’s journey teaches us that seeking Christ often involves unexpected detours and lessons learned along the way. Let us be open to the journey and to God’s guiding light, leading us from where we are to where we were created to be.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
The journey to find Christ may be long, but it’s through seeking that we discover our true selves.

PRAYER
Lord, grant us the perseverance of the wise men and the wisdom to recognize Your presence throughout our journeys. Amen.

Devotion written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.

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REVISITED: The Lament Configuration

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Read Psalm 102

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10 NLT).

It is not often we talk about Lament. Then again, it is not often we talk about pain, suffering, mourning or grief; however, it is an intregal part of the faithful believer’s life. There is no human being alive that does not experience loss, suffering, isolation, pain, grief and sorrow. That is a natural configugration in life, so-to-speak. Heck, there is a lot of material in the Bible dedicated to this configuration, including none other than Lamentation and certainly some of the Psalms.

That is why I was utterly shocked when The Lament Configuration was mentioned in the recent reboot of the 1987 supernatural horror film entitled, Hellraiser, which was originally written and directed by Clive Barker, a British author, based off of Barker’s novella The Hellbound Heart.

In this 2022 reboot produced by Hulu, we are introduced to a man Roland Voight, who has lured a young adult male into his club in order to use him as a human sacrifice. No details are given of the arrangement, but one gets that Roland is a very wealthy man with ZERO moral compass. Thus, the young man is brought back into a secret chamber of the mansion to meet Roland.

Upon entering the chamber, he sees a weirdly shaped puzzle box that Roland says he needs him to figure out. Upon doing so, a blade comes out and punctures his hand and all hell breaks loose. These weird creatures from another dimension of reality, we’ll call it hell, come forth and claim the life of Roland’s victim and the screen goes blank.

I am, obviously not going to give much more of the story away, but it is important for you to understand the back story. Following that, a young adult female recovering addict named Riley is introduced, along with her boyfriend Trevor, her brother Matt and his boyfriend Colin. Somehow, again without giving anything away, Riley discovers this mysterious puzzle box that we saw in the beginning of the film. This time it is in the simple shape of a cube.

After accidently opening it and her brother accidentally got cut by it (again, I am not giving too much away), her brother is taken by the Cenobites (the weird hellish creatures). This thrusts Riley on a path to right the wrongs that her opening the box wrought on her family and friends. Her understanding of how to do this is to continuing playing the puzzle box until she can pick, from the Cenobites, the choice of bringing her brother back to life. To do this, she would have to choose the Resurrection configuration.

But after losing more people than I can mention in this film, she realizes that while the Cenobites offer pleasure…their understanding of pleasure is eternal pain. But there is one configuration that, as far as the Cenobites are concerned, is far worse than any other to deal with: The Lament Configuration. Why was this the worst, because instead of testing one’s limits of pleasure and pain, one is choosing to live life, remorseful for the harm they have caused. In other words, the person that chooses the life of lament, they live a tortured existence of guilt and shame until they die.

But here is the key: they die. One can assume, following death there is NO MORE pain; however, their entire life will be lived in the REAL world experiencing guilt, shame and the pain that life brings on. Without giving away anymore of the film away, I possibly flirted a little with giving too much away, the experience of Lament is dealt with in a real, human way. I have never seen it approached in such an apropos way before.

The reality is, like Roland Voight and Riley, we all seek to escape pain and suffering, yet that is such a part of our human experience that we simply cannot escape it. What’s more, God chose NOT to escape it too. That’s right, God chose the Lament Configuration through Jesus Christ, who came to earth as God in the flesh, and who chose to LIVE HIS LIFE, despite the fact that doing so would land him in a Roman court and crucified on the cross. He chose to live a life of suffering and pain for us, so that we might have ABUNDANT and ETERNAL life through him.

Like the characters in the film, we simply have to choose The Lament Configuration over the other things we tend to seek out, such as pleasure, greed, hate, power and other such sinful things. What does that mean? Simple, we choose Jesus Christ and HIS way over our own. Instead of avoiding lament, let us open our hearts to God and lament over our own sins and the evil we sough wrought in this world. Then, through humble repentance and allegiance to Christ, we will be able to move past our human condition and into the Kingdom of God.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Nothing heals us like letting people know our scariest parts: When people listen to you cry and lament, and look at you with love, it’s like they are holding the baby of you.” – Anne Lamott

PRAYER
Lord, help me to learn to hand my griefs over to you so that, with a pentitent heart, I may be freed from my sins and burdens to serve you and others for the glory of your Kingdom. Amen.