"Passion"
What's your Passion? But what is "Passion"? I am sure that you have heard folks say "I am so passionate about..." Better yet, you have witnessed the passion of folks in action. But have you ever thought about what is "passion"? Ironically, there are multiple definitions and applications of this pretty powerful word. According to several dictionaries, including, Merriam-Webster, there are at least three basic definitions that stand out:
Love - ardent affection, devotion, deep desire
Emotion - intense, driving, outbreak of anger, conviction
The Passion - sufferings of Christ during "Holy Week".
Isn't it crazy that we use the same word to describe love, anger, even hate, and the ultimate loving sacrifice of Christ. Talk about confusing!
Lately I have really noticed the passions of people - and all the definitions in action. I see people lovingly passionate about a cause. A desire to make the world a better place. I have witnessed pure total excitement and joy over an event or a game. In the same way, I witness passionate people who are hateful because of differing views or opinions. These folks can be downright mean and even bullies. This is especially true during an election year with an attitude of "my way or no way!" (Have you looked at social media...) And I see people whose lives have been changed because of the Passion of Christ. This is the strongest example of Passion - God' Passion (love, devotion) for us. And here's what's crazy - there are times that I see all of these different definitions of passion in action in the same person. And if I am honest, sometimes it's that man in the mirror.
You know, it is so exciting to go hear your favorite band (or two) in concert. Or cheer for your favorite team who squeaks out an unpredictable victory on the last play of the game. Or see you child performing on stage and realizing they are really good. Personally, I have experienced all of these, "passions" and even more, within the last week - and with the one person that I am most passionate about, my beautiful wife!
Passion is a part of who we are. What we do. What drives us and even defines us. So my question, actually questions, are:
What is your definition?
And what is your passion?
Here's the challenge. Choose a positive, impactful passion (like love) to define you and avoid the negative passion (like hate or fury) that is so divisive and destructive. And ultimately choose the Passion that God has for us, shown through Christ, of Agape (unconditional, no strings attached) love for one another. Make this choice and watch how the your world changes for the better. It's amazing. And wouldn't it be awesome if folks got just as excited about going to worship with a Church Family as they did about attending a concert or a game!
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:9-13
Our Passion is our choice. So what's yours?
It has been a full and fun week at FCC. On Sunday night many of us enjoyed an evening with our Gospel Jam. Yes, I pulled out the spoons! Thank you Pastor Lee and all those who participated. On Tuesday night, approximately 30 folks enjoyed an evening of music with Jo Yeager and friends. Honestly, that is a really good turn out for a Tuesday night event. This was something that Jo wanted to do to help support the "Jesus Prince of Peace Ministries" and the children's home in Uganda. According to Matt, almost $1500 was given toward this ministry. Awesome! And on Wednesday night Michael Card shared and educated us by showing actual pictures of his various trips to Israel and the significance in the life and ministry of Christ. Thanks Mike to continue to open our eyes to how awesome our God really is.
Also, we are continuing to take pictures (thank you Bobby Nesser) of our Church Family. If you did not get your picture last week, please head to the Grace Center immediately following Worship for a quick picture. And make plans now to be involved with our big event for the Fall - Music in the Vale on September 28.
FCC is definitely a happening place. I hope you will join us Sunday, Our morning schedule includes Proverbs is being discussed in Bible Study at 9:30, and at 10:30 in Worship we will continue looking at one of the craziest family stories in the Bible, the story of Joseph. This week we will witness Dysfunction to Destiny: Wronged to Reconciliation. I hope you will join us and I am PASSIONATE about it. And, Always Remember...
You ARE Loved!
Pastor Lonnie
"More in '24"
(You can reach Pastor Lonnie by calling or text 615-496-2502 or send an email to lonniecastle@gmail.com)