Where Truth and Grace Meet
By Bill Markham
I recently read, “Loneliness is the new silent killer—more deadly than smoking, more destructive than obesity, and it’s spreading faster than any pandemic we’ve ever faced.” This reality highlights the urgent need for action. What can we, as followers of Jesus, do about it? The Bible provides a powerful answer in Psalm 68:6 (NIV): “God sets the lonely in families.” Jesus established the church to be that family—a place for belonging, support, and growth.
First, Jesus established the church to build authentic relationships. Acts 4:32 (NIV) says, “All the believers were one in heart and mind.” The church is meant to be a safe, united community where people connect deeply, share struggles, and form lasting friendships.
Second, Jesus established the church to provide support and care. Acts 4:32 also tells us, “No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.” This radical generosity ensures that everyone’s needs are met, creating a robust safety net.
Third, Jesus established the church to encourage growth and accountability. Acts 4:33 (NIV) states, “With great power, the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.” The church is where truth and grace meet, fostering spiritual growth.
As a result, Acts 4:34 (NIV) shows, “God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them.” When we unite, we are stronger.
To be part of the solution, actively engage in your church community (remember, you are the church), pray for unity in the Church in Canada, and ask God how you can extend His love to the lonely around you today.
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Day 14 – Teach Us To Pray
After a time of prayer, Jesus’ disciples asked Him to teach them how to pray. How humbling to sit at the feet of Jesus, hear Him pray, and have the opportunity to gain more wisdom and knowledge from Him as they sought to emulate Jesus in every way—including the way He spoke to His Father.
Day 13 – Why Pray?
While prayer fosters intimacy with God, it is also a way to honour and worship Him for all He does, did, and will do. He’s the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end of all created things, including us.
Day 12 – Reflections
Today, as we reflect on decisions we’ve made to put God first in our lives, let’s praise Him for all He has done for us and for teaching us to fast and pray.
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