Tag Archives: Holy Spirit

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN: part 12: Don’t Assimilate at the Expense of Faith

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Read John 17:14-16

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2 NLT).

We’ve all seen those bumper stickers and church signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” Well-intentioned? Sure. But often missing the mark? Absolutely. They focus on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge 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 12: Don’t Assimilate at the Expense of Faith. Picture a vibrant coral reef, teeming with life. Each fish, each creature, has its unique color, shape, and role in the ecosystem. Now imagine a newcomer—a bright, tropical fish—swept in by ocean currents. At first, it stands out, its brilliant hues a stark contrast to its surroundings. Some of the reef’s inhabitants are wary, others curious. The newcomer faces a choice: blend in, losing its distinctive beauty, or remain true to its nature while finding its place in the reef.

This scenario mirrors the challenge Christians face in today’s world. We’re called to be in the world but not of it, to engage with our culture without being consumed by it. Like that vibrant fish, we might feel pressure to dim our light, to assimilate at the expense of our faith.

One of the most pervasive forms of assimilation is political tribalism. Christians often find themselves aligning with political parties or ideologies, sometimes prioritizing party ideology and loyalty over biblical principles. This tribalism can lead us to demonize those who disagree with us, forgetting that our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not earthly political systems.

Equally dangerous is the embrace of relativistic moral views. In a culture that increasingly rejects absolute truth, Christians may be tempted to soften their stance on moral issues to avoid conflict. However, this compromise undermines the foundation of our faith and the transformative power of the Gospel.

The adoption of cultural individualism poses another threat. Our society often celebrates personal autonomy above all else, but this mindset can lead us away from the communal nature of faith that Jesus emphasized. We’re called to be part of a body, not isolated believers pursuing our own paths.

In our pursuit of comfort, we often neglect compassion. The ease of modern life can make us complacent, forgetting Christ’s call to serve others and stand up for justice. This comfort-seeking attitude can lead us to ignore the suffering around us, contradicting Jesus’ example of self-sacrifice.

While less prominent, other forms of assimilation can still erode our faith. Prioritizing career success over ethical integrity, adopting consumerist attitudes that value possessions over people, embracing cynicism and apathy in the face of challenges, and compartmentalizing our faith to certain areas of life all contribute to a weakened Christian witness.

However, perhaps the most subtle yet crucial form of assimilation lies in neglecting spiritual disciplines. In the busyness of life, prayer, Bible study, and worship can take a back seat. Without these practices anchoring us, we become more susceptible to worldly influences and lose our distinctive Christian identity. This neglect undermines our ability to resist all other forms of assimilation.

Paul’s words in Romans 12:2 challenge us: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” This transformation is not about isolating ourselves from the world, but about maintaining our distinct identity in Christ while engaging with our surroundings. Paul himself, along with other early church apostles, exemplified this approach. They didn’t isolate themselves from the world; instead, they actively engaged with it. They navigated complex cultural and political landscapes, sometimes even complying with local customs when necessary, but they never conformed to values that contradicted their faith.

This approach was characteristic of the early Christian church as a whole. They lived in a society that often viewed them with suspicion or hostility. Yet they didn’t retreat into isolated communities. Instead, they became known for their love, their service to others, and their unwavering faith—even in the face of persecution. Their example shows us how to be in the world but not of it, maintaining our Christian distinctiveness while still effectively reaching out to others.

Today, we face different challenges, but the principle remains the same. We’re called to be salt and light in our world, to influence without being influenced, to transform without being conformed. This doesn’t mean being combative or judgmental. Rather, it’s about living out our faith authentically, allowing the love of Christ to shine through us.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
In the world, but not of it—we are called to show Christ’s love while standing firm in our faith.

PRAYER
Gracious God, give us the courage to live authentically as Your followers in a world that often pulls us in different directions. Help us to engage with our culture without compromising our faith, to love boldly while standing firm in Your truth. May our lives reflect Your light and draw others to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

Devotional

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 11: Don’t Put Government Over God

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Read Matthew 22:15-22

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“We must obey God rather than any human authority” (Acts 5:29 NLT).

We’ve all seen those bumper stickers and church signs urging us to “Keep Christ in Christmas.” Well-intentioned? Sure. But often missing the mark? Absolutely. They focus on preserving a commercialized image of “baby Jesus” rather than embracing the full, transformative power of Christ in our lives. The real challenge 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 11: Don’t Put Government Over God. Picture Jerusalem, buzzing with tension. Roman soldiers patrol the streets, their armor glinting in the harsh sun. In the shadow of the magnificent Temple, an unlikely alliance is forming. The Herodians, pro-Roman rule, and the Sadducees, the priestly elite, dominate the political scene. The Pharisees are there too, but they’re not yet the powerhouse they’ll later become.

Into this powder keg steps Jesus, his teachings already shaking things up. As he’s teaching in the Temple courts, a group approaches, faces plastered with fake sincerity. “Teacher,” one begins, voice dripping with false respect, “we know you’re legit. You teach God’s way truthfully, you don’t play favorites, and you’re not swayed by status. So tell us what you think. Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?”

It’s a trap, plain and simple. Say yes, and Jesus alienates the people groaning under Roman oppression. Say no, and he’s looking at arrest for sedition. The crowd holds its breath, waiting.

Jesus, seeing right through their game, asks for a coin. As it’s handed over, he turns it in his hand, Caesar’s face catching the light. “Whose face is on this?” he asks, his gaze piercing those trying to corner him. “And whose name is inscribed?”

“Caesar’s,” they reply, a hint of smugness in their voices.

Then Jesus delivers his masterstroke: “Well then, give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”

The crowd falls silent. His would-be trappers retreat, stunned by his wisdom. But the full impact of Jesus’ words will take time to sink in.

Fast forward a few decades, and Matthew’s recording this story. The political landscape has shifted dramatically. The Temple’s in ruins, and the Pharisees have risen to new prominence, offering a way forward for Judaism without a Temple. Matthew’s account reflects not just Jesus’ time, but his own, portraying the Pharisees as more central opponents than they were in Jesus’ day.

But the core message? It transcends these historical shifts. Jesus’ response, often oversimplified as “pay your taxes but go to church,” was way more subversive. Sure, he acknowledged Caesar’s claim on the coin bearing his image. But in doing so, he implicitly asked a far more profound question: Whose image do we bear?

Genesis tells us we’re made in God’s image. So when Jesus says to give to God what is God’s, he’s saying everything – our whole selves, our ultimate allegiance – belongs to God. The coin may have Caesar’s face, but who created the materials it’s made from? Who created the people who minted it? Who created Caesar himself?

Jesus isn’t giving us permission to comfortably balance earthly and divine obligations. He’s declaring God’s ultimate authority over everything, even what earthly powers claim as their own. It’s a radical call to prioritize God’s will over human authority, even when they conflict.

This teaching challenges us today. How often do we let government policies, societal norms, or political ideologies shape our actions more than God’s commands? When faced with laws or leaders that contradict God’s love and justice, do we have the courage to “give to God” even at personal cost?

Jesus’ words remind us that while we may be citizens of earthly nations, our primary citizenship is in God’s kingdom. Our ultimate allegiance isn’t to any flag, political party, or human leader, but to the God in whose image we’re created.

Let’s strive to keep this perspective, always asking ourselves: Are we giving to God what is God’s? Are we allowing God’s will to guide our actions, even when it challenges earthly authorities? This is the way of Jesus – subversive, challenging, and ultimately transformative.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The speculative thinker makes Christianity into theology, instead of recognizing that a living relationship to Christ involves passion, struggle, decision, personal appropriation, and inner transformation.” – Charles Moore summarizing Kierkegaard

PRAYER
God, help us to always prioritize Your will over earthly authorities. Give us wisdom to navigate our dual citizenship, and courage to stand for Your truth even when it’s difficult. May we always give to You what is Yours – our whole selves. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 10: Don’t Prioritize Dogma Over Relationships

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Read Matthew 23:23-24

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” (John 13:34 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 10: Don’t Prioritize Dogma Over Relationships: In the 2003 film “Luther,” there’s a powerful scene where Martin Luther (played by Joseph Fiennes) confronts the harsh dogma of his time. A young boy has committed suicide and is found hanging from scaffolding erected for repairs on the town’s church. The boy’s body is discovered suspended from one of the horizontal beams, creating a stark and haunting image that underscores the tragedy of the situation.

According to church doctrine, suicides were considered damned and couldn’t be buried in consecrated ground. In a defiant act of compassion, Luther insists on burying the boy in the Christian cemetery, declaring it was the devil’s work that killed the boy, not God’s judgment.

While this specific incident is a dramatic interpretation rather than historical fact, it powerfully illustrates the conflict between rigid dogma and compassionate relationships. The scene captures the essence of Luther’s more nuanced views on suicide, even if it takes some artistic liberties.

Historically, Luther did express more compassionate views on suicide than the prevailing Catholic doctrine of his time. In his Table Talk, Luther is recorded as saying that those who commit suicide are “blinded by the devil” and shouldn’t be judged too harshly. He emphasized the personal struggle with the devil and God’s ultimate intentions for individuals, rather than blanket condemnation.

Luther didn’t campaign to change burial practices for suicides, but his teachings laid the groundwork for a more nuanced understanding of mental health and divine mercy. This historical context, combined with the film’s dramatization, provides a rich illustration of prioritizing relationships and compassion over strict adherence to dogma.

As Christians, we often face similar conflicts between our doctrinal beliefs and the messy realities of human relationships. We might be tempted to cling to rigid interpretations of scripture or church traditions at the expense of showing Christ’s love to those who are hurting or marginalized.

Jesus himself often prioritized relationships and compassion over strict adherence to religious law. He healed on the Sabbath, touched those considered unclean, and ate with sinners – all actions that scandalized the religious authorities of his time. These authorities even went so far as to judge Jesus as being a glutton and a drunkard because of his scandalous associations (Matthew 11:19). In Matthew 23:23-24, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their meticulous adherence to minor points of the law while neglecting “the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith.”

This doesn’t mean that doctrine is unimportant. Our beliefs shape our actions and our understanding of God. However, when we allow our dogma to become a barrier to showing Christ’s love, we’ve missed the point entirely. As Jesus said, the greatest commandments are to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40).

In our churches and communities today, we often face situations where our doctrinal positions conflict with showing compassion and building relationships. This is particularly evident in how we respond to LGBTQIA+ individuals. As an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and an ally, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating damage done by prioritizing dogma over love and inclusion. The recent positive changes in the UMC regarding LGBTQIA+ inclusion represent a step towards prioritizing relationships over outdated interpretations of doctrine.

Similarly, we see this tension in how we treat migrants, including those who are undocumented. Christ’s command to welcome the stranger often conflicts with political ideologies that have seeped into church doctrine. We must ask ourselves: are we more concerned with enforcing human-made borders or with showing Christ’s borderless love?

This extends to how we treat people of other nations and faiths. Do we allow our national or religious identity to create barriers, or do we follow Christ’s example of crossing cultural and religious boundaries to show love and compassion?

In these moments, we must ask ourselves: Are we prioritizing our dogma over our relationships? Are we more concerned with being right than with showing Christ’s love? The answer to these questions will determine whether we truly keep Christ in “Christian.”

Let us strive to follow Christ’s example of radical love and compassion. May we hold our beliefs with humility, always ready to extend grace and understanding to others. Like Luther, may we be willing to challenge harmful dogmas when they conflict with the core message of God’s love and mercy.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“Doctrine is nothing but the skin of truth set up and stuffed.” – Henry Ward Beecher

PRAYER
God, help us to hold our beliefs with humility and to always prioritize love and compassion in our relationships with others. May we never let our dogma become a barrier to showing Your love to those around us. Guide us in discerning when to stand firm in our convictions and when to extend grace and understanding. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 9: Don’t Become Spiritually Complacent

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Read Revelation 3:14-22

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“For simpletons turn away from me—to death. Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.” (Proverbs 1:32 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 9: Don’t Become Spiritually Complacent. As a film enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by James Cameron’s epic “Titanic.” While initially skeptical of Leonardo DiCaprio, I couldn’t deny his phenomenal performance alongside Kate Winslet. Their on-screen chemistry brought to life a tragic tale of hubris and complacency.

Beyond the romance, the film vividly portrays the real-life complacency that led to one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters. The ship was deemed “unsinkable,” fostering a dangerous overconfidence among crew and passengers alike. This complacency manifested in insufficient lifeboats, ignored ice warnings, maintained high speeds in treacherous waters, and a lack of proper emergency procedures. This hubris resulted in the tragic loss of over 1,500 lives when the “unsinkable” ship met its fate in the icy Atlantic.

Similarly, we as Christians often fall into spiritual complacency, believing our faith is “unsinkable.” We neglect social justice, focusing solely on individual salvation while ignoring systemic injustices. We prioritize comfort over conviction, hesitating to address problematic teachings or behaviors within our church communities. This might mean staying silent when we hear scripture misinterpreted to justify discrimination, failing to challenge leaders who abuse their authority, or avoiding difficult conversations about how our church responds to social issues. We choose the false peace of avoiding conflict over the sometimes uncomfortable work of aligning our community more closely with Christ’s teachings.

We conflate charity with justice, treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes of oppression. We disconnect faith from action, studying Scripture without allowing it to transform our lives and compel us to act. We retreat into a “Christian bubble” rather than engaging thoughtfully with the broader culture. We neglect discipleship, focusing on attracting crowds rather than producing mature, Christ-like believers. We become numb to global suffering, failing to take meaningful action. We pursue shallow faith, memorizing Bible verses without deep understanding and application.

Like the Titanic’s crew ignoring ice warnings, we ignore the signs of our spiritual drift. Like maintaining high speed in dangerous waters, we rush through life without careful spiritual navigation. Like insufficient lifeboats, we neglect spiritual disciplines that could save us in times of crisis.

The consequences of our complacency may not be as immediately apparent as the Titanic’s fate, but they are no less real. We risk shipwrecking our faith, failing to fulfill our calling as Christ’s disciples, and neglecting our responsibility to be salt and light in the world.

To combat complacency, we must pursue a faith that integrates personal transformation with social responsibility. We must allow the gospel to shape both our individual lives and our engagement with society’s injustices. We must stay vigilant, continually examining our hearts and actions against the standard of Christ’s teachings.

Let us not be like the lukewarm church of Laodicea, content in our perceived spiritual richness while blind to our true poverty. Instead, let us heed Christ’s call to be “hot or cold,” fully committed to living out our faith in all aspects of our lives.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The opposite of faith is not doubt, it’s certainty.” – Anne Lamott

PRAYER
Lord, shake us from our complacency. Ignite in us a passion for Your justice and mercy. May we never be content with a faith that doesn’t transform us and the world around us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

Devotional, Series

KEEP CHRIST IN CHRISTIAN, part 7: Don’t Misuse Scripture Out of Context

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Read Romans 13:1-7

ALSO IN SCRIPTURE
“Do not misuse the name of the LORD your God, because the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who misuses his name.” (Exodus 20:7 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 7: Don’t Misuse Scripture Out of Context: In June 2018, Attorney General Jeff Sessions invoked Romans 13 to defend a controversial immigration policy. He stated, “I would cite you to the Apostle Paul and his clear and wise command in Romans 13, to obey the laws of the government because God has ordained them for the purpose of order.” This use of Scripture sparked significant debate and criticism, highlighting a dangerous trend of misusing Bible verses out of context.

Sessions’ interpretation ignored not only the broader message of Romans and its historical context but also numerous other biblical teachings on treating immigrants and foreigners. Paul wrote this letter to a Christian community in Rome around 55 AD, shortly after many Jewish Christians had been exiled and were returning. His message emphasized welcoming these returning exiles and treating them with love and compassion.

Crucially, Paul’s words about obeying authority had broader implications that Sessions overlooked. Paul was addressing the futility of fighting against the overwhelming power of Rome, which would only lead to death. Instead, he was encouraging believers to focus on preparing for the parousia, or the second coming of Christ. This context is entirely different from Sessions’ attempt to justify modern immigration policies.

Moreover, Sessions’ use of Romans 13 contradicted numerous other biblical teachings on treating foreigners. The Old Testament consistently emphasizes compassionate treatment of immigrants: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt” (Leviticus 19:33-34). The New Testament echoes this sentiment, with Jesus saying, “I was a stranger and you invited me in” (Matthew 25:35).

This misuse of Romans 13 is not unique. Throughout history, this passage has been invoked to justify various controversial policies and actions, from supporting slavery to arguing for submission to unjust regimes. It’s a stark reminder of how easily Scripture can be twisted when taken out of context.

Other commonly misused scriptures include Jeremiah 29:11, often applied as a personal promise of prosperity but originally addressed to exiled Israelites about national restoration. Or Matthew 7:1, “Do not judge,” frequently used to discourage all forms of discernment, ignoring Jesus’ warning against hypocritical judgment.

When we misuse Scripture, we risk distorting God’s message, developing an incomplete view of God’s nature, and even causing spiritual harm to others. It’s crucial that we study Bible passages within their literal, historical, and grammatical context, considering the broader narrative, the author’s intent, and how the passage fits into the overall message of Scripture.

As followers of Christ, we have a responsibility to handle God’s Word with care and reverence. Let’s commit to studying Scripture diligently, seeking to understand its full context and message. May we resist the temptation to cherry-pick verses to support our own agendas, and instead allow the full counsel of God’s Word to shape our beliefs and actions.

THOUGHT OF THE DAY
“The Bible is meant to be bread for daily use, not cake for special occasions.” – Unknown

PRAYER
God, grant us wisdom as we study Your Word. Help us to understand Scripture in its full context and to apply it faithfully in our lives. Guard us against the temptation to misuse Your Word for our own purposes. May our study of Scripture draw us closer to You and to the truth of Your message. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

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

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.