Part 2 of this two-part set is a continuation of this author’s journey with Christ. This document was started with no thought of publishing or making it public. It was a joy to sit during the morning quiet time and write some thoughts which seem at times fairly unrelated to one another. However, the thoughts reflected a discovery of the kaleidoscopic relation with, and discovery of the matchless character of our risen Lord and Savior. Very quickly, this exercise turned into soul-searching and, through various life experiences, became an examination of heart and soul in light of the Word of the Living God. Major themes within the meditations of this book became anchors for the writer’s flow of thoughts, such as, the Centrality of the Person of Jesus Christ; The Person, Work, Presence, and Power of the Holy Spirit; as well as other themes that form the core of the Christian life, such as forgiveness, faith, obedience, practical and organic nature of church life, application of God’s love, and what makes the believer’s walk challenging and sometimes blurred. The reason behind this thematic approach is to see the relevance and application of God’s principles expressed in daily life. Much is written today about sound doctrine. However, to this author, one of the nagging issues in Christendom today is the soundness of doctrine but dead reflection of the life of Christ in everyday life. Surely, there is a bridge that is solidly founded in God’s Word. Discovering aspects of that bridge is one of the objectives of this writing. This author’s premise is that doctrines are wonderful and easy to identify, and ascertain their veracity through the objective study of God’s Word, but without the indwelling Holy Spirit and daily obedience, discipline, and application, such life is purely pharisaic and counter-productive in personal, family, church, and social life. It grieves the Spirit and produces no fruit. The fact remains that unless the grain goes into the ground and dies; it will remain alone and will bear no fruit. Rightness of doctrine is no guarantee of righteousness that’s Christ born and Spirit-implemented. Beginning in faith requires faith for the rest of the journey. Only the Holy Spirit can sustain such lifestyle, filled with the variegated beauty of Christ’s character. Then I can worship in Spirit/spirit and truth. And then I can enjoy Him forever. The rest of the journey is simply diverse details making each one of us unique and rich.
