Gratitude is more than just a polite gesture or a social nicety; it's a powerful force that can positively impact our psychological well-being in profound ways. From ancient wisdom to modern psychological research, the benefits of practicing gratitude are well-documented and supported by both science and spirituality. Psychologically, gratitude serves as a catalyst for happiness and contentment. When we express gratitude, whether through verbal affirmations, written notes, or simply by reflecting on the things we're thankful for, our brains release dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and well-being. This neurochemical response not only enhances our mood in the present moment but also contributes to long-term mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Moreover, cultivating gratitude fosters resilience in the face of adversity. By acknowledging the blessings in our lives, even during challenging times, we shift our focus from what's lacking to what we have, thus empowering ourselves to cope with difficulties more effectively. This shift in perspective can lead to greater emotional stability and a more optimistic outlook on life. Furthermore, practicing gratitude strengthens social bonds and promotes empathy and compassion. For example, when we express gratitude towards others, whether friends, family, or strangers, we acknowledge their kindness and generosity, fostering a sense of connection and reciprocity. This, in turn, deepens our relationships and encourages prosocial behavior, creating a ripple effect of positivity within our communities (Eisenberg et al., 2006).

From a biblical perspective, the practice of gratitude is deeply rooted in spiritual wisdom. Throughout the Bible, numerous verses exhort believers to give thanks in all circumstances, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging God's goodness and faithfulness. For instance, in the book of Psalms, King David repeatedly sings praises to God and expresses gratitude for His blessings, declaring, "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever" (Psalm 107:1, NIV). The New Testament also echoes this sentiment, with the apostle Paul exhorting Christians to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV). The act of giving thanks is portrayed as an essential aspect of spiritual life, serving as a form of worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and provision. The doxology, the concluding hymn of our offertory, resounds with gratitude: "Praise God, from whom all blessings flow." It unites our voices in praise, echoing through the sanctuary, affirming our commitment to stewardship. With reverence, we offer our gifts, in gratitude to the One who gives us His all.

Moreover, the biblical principle of sowing and reaping applies to gratitude as well. In the book of Galatians, Paul writes, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows" (Galatians 6:7, NIV). By cultivating a heart of gratitude and expressing thankfulness towards God and others, believers position themselves to receive abundant blessings in return, both spiritually and materially. In terms of health claims, research has indeed shown a correlation between gratitude and various aspects of physical health. Studies suggest that individuals who regularly practice gratitude experience improved immune function, lower blood pressure, and better sleep quality. Moreover, the positive effects of gratitude on mental health, such as reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, indirectly contribute to overall well-being and longevity (Newman 2021).
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In conclusion, the practice of gratitude is not only psychologically healthy but also deeply rooted in spiritual wisdom. By cultivating an attitude of thankfulness and expressing gratitude towards God and others, we not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute to the flourishing of our communities and the world at large. So let us embrace the transformative power of gratitude and make it a daily practice in our lives.
 
 

Imagine you're sitting in a cozy corner of your favorite café, enveloped in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Across the table sits a friend, curious and open-minded, yet skeptical about matters of faith. It's in this setting that we embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of ontological arguments, inviting exploration and dialogue. Ontological arguments, while sounding complex, are philosophical reflections on the nature of existence and the concept of God. They're like thought experiments that encourage us to ponder the possibility of a divine presence beyond our tangible reality. As believers, it's our privilege to engage in thoughtful conversation, offering insights that inspire wonder and curiosity. 

Let's begin with the classic argument proposed by Saint Anselm, a renowned theologian and philosopher from the 11th century. Anselm invites us to consider the very idea of God – a being greater than which none can be conceived. It's akin to imagining the most perfect island paradise imaginable – and then realizing that it must exist, for a truly perfect island wouldn't be perfect if it only existed in our minds. Now, let's fast forward to the 20th century and meet Alvin Plantinga, a contemporary philosopher who revitalized the age-old argument. Plantinga introduces the concept of "possible worlds," suggesting that if God exists in any possible world, then He exists in all possible worlds – including ours. It's like saying that if there's even a chance of winning the lottery, then you're a winner in every possible outcome. 

R.C. Sproul, a beloved theologian and apologist, further deepened our understanding of the ontological arguments. He emphasized the distinction between necessary and contingent beings, highlighting the unique status of God as a necessary being. Contingent beings depend on external factors for their existence, while a necessary being, such as God, exists by the very necessity of His own nature. If anything exists, then the purposive mind, God, must exist as the only self-existent being. Sproul's insights shed light on the profound implications of God's existence as a foundational reality. Greg Bahnsen, another influential figure in Christian apologetics, contributed to the discourse with his rigorous defense of the ontological argument. Bahnsen emphasized the coherence of the concept of God as the ultimate foundation of reality. He argued that denying the existence of God leads to logical absurdities and undermines the very basis of rational thought. Bahnsen's work challenges skeptics to grapple with the logical consequences of their disbelief and invites them to consider the coherence of the Christian worldview. 

Dutch-American philosopher Cornelius Van Til's approach to apologetics centers on the presuppositional method, which asserts that all human thought and reasoning are grounded in the existence of God. Rather than treating God's existence as a hypothesis to be proven, Van Til invites us to recognize it as the presupposition that underpins all rational inquiry. In this light, ontological arguments take on a deeper significance, serving not only as intellectual exercises but as reflections of our fundamental reliance on God's existence for coherent thought and reasoning. Van Til's perspective challenges us to reconsider the very framework through which we approach ontological arguments. Instead of viewing God's existence as a hypothetical conclusion drawn from human reasoning, Van Til suggests that it is the very foundation upon which rationality itself rests. In this sense, Anselm's argument becomes not just a philosophical exercise but a profound recognition of the ultimate source of all meaning and coherence in the universe. Similarly, Van Til's perspective sheds new light on Alvin Plantinga's concept of "possible worlds." While Plantinga's argument highlights the logical possibility of God's existence in various hypothetical scenarios, Van Til's presuppositional framework invites us to see God's existence as the necessary precondition for the existence of any possible world. Without God as the ultimate ground of reality, the very concept of "possible worlds" loses its coherence and significance. 

As believers, we approach these arguments not with arrogance or superiority, but with humility and openness. We recognize that they're not intended to coerce belief but to spark curiosity and contemplation. We share them with non-believing friends as invitations to explore the mysteries of existence together, fostering meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding. Our goal is not to win arguments but to build bridges of connection and trust. We seek to engage with non-believing friends in a spirit of warmth and empathy, offering insights that inspire curiosity and invite reflection. So, the next time you find yourself in conversation with a non-believing friend, consider sharing these insights with a warm smile and a genuine desire for connection. Invite them to ponder the possibility of a divine presence, encouraging them to explore the beauty of faith at their own pace. May grace, humility, and a shared pursuit of truth mark our conversations. May we journey together in curiosity and wonder, discovering the depth and richness of God's existence as we explore the mysteries of life and faith. "but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. Yet do this with gentleness and reverence, " 1 Peter 3:15
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 By Senior Warden Dan Mikool

In the tumultuous landscape of modern life, our failures often stand as glaring reminders of our desperate need for grace. Consider the case of Kat Von D, the celebrated tattoo artist, devotee of witchcraft and new age spirituality, turned makeup mogul. Her journey from rebellion to redemption is a poignant testament to the transformative power of grace. In the spotlight of fame, Kat Von D once epitomized the counterculture of defiance, with her bold tattoos and unapologetic persona. Yet, beneath the veneer of success lurked a profound sense of emptiness and brokenness. Despite her outward confidence, Kat Von D grappled with inner turmoil and a longing for something more profound than mere worldly acclaim.

It was amidst this internal struggle that Kat Von D encountered the transformative message of the Gospel—a message that proclaims freedom and redemption to all who are willing to receive it. In a stunning reversal of fortunes, Kat Von D embraced her faith journey, publicly professing her newfound commitment to Christ through baptism.

"There's the symbolic gesture of baptism, but also a part for me is a bit of making amends with my followers because for so many years, I've been putting out a certain message that makes me sad I was ever even a part of," she explained.[1]

Her testimony serves as a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace, no matter how far they may have strayed. The heart of the Gospel lies in its message of good news—that despite our failures and shortcomings, God's grace extends to us freely, offering forgiveness, redemption, and a new beginning.

Paul’s words in Romans 7, where he candidly confesses his struggles with sin and his inability to do the good he desires, reflect this truth. Paul's words echo across the centuries, resonating with contemporary struggles that we face in our daily lives. Whether it's battling addiction, grappling with mental health issues, or wrestling with the demands of modern life, we are all too familiar with the crushing weight of our own inadequacies. Like Paul, we find ourselves trapped in a cycle of sin and self-condemnation, longing for deliverance from our own weaknesses. Yet, it is precisely in our moments of brokenness and despair that the message of grace shines most brightly.

Just as Paul declares in Romans 7:24-25, "Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!" (ESV), we too can find hope and redemption in the unmerited favor of God. Just as Kat Von D has done. In a world plagued by sin and despair, the Gospel remains a beacon of hope—a reminder that our failures do not define us, and that true freedom is found in surrendering to the grace of God. As we navigate the complexities of life, may we cling to this promise of grace, knowing that it is through our weaknesses that God's strength is made perfect.

[1] https://toofab.com/2023/11/09/kat-von-d-opens-up-about-controversial-decision-to-denounce-witchcraft-and-embrace-christianity/ (accessed February 25, 2024)

In the Christian tradition, Lent marks a period of reflection, repentance, and spiritual discipline leading up to Easter Sunday. It's a time when believers worldwide engage in acts of self-denial, prayer, and contemplation, seeking to draw closer to God. At the heart of Lent lies the profound concept of sola gratia, or "grace alone" – a foundational tenet of Christian faith that underscores our complete dependence on the unmerited favor and love of God. 
As we journey through Lent, it's imperative to reflect on the significance of sola gratia and how it informs our trust in Jesus, especially amidst life's trials. Scripture resounds with the theme of grace as the central force in our salvation journey. Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This passage encapsulates the essence of sola gratia – our salvation is not earned through our efforts or merits but is freely given by God's grace. During Lent, as we meditate on our personal sinfulness, we're reminded that our redemption is solely the work of God's undeserved kindness.
The Lenten season often brings its share of trials and challenges. Whether it's grappling with personal struggles, facing uncertainty, or enduring hardship, these moments can test our faith and resolve. Yet, it's precisely in these times that the concept of sola gratia shines brightly. Romans 5:8 beautifully articulates this truth: "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross demonstrates the incomprehensible depth of God's grace – a love so profound that it reaches us in our fallenness and redeems us despite our unworthiness. Trusting Jesus amidst trials means surrendering our burdens and weaknesses to Him, acknowledging that His grace is more than sufficient for our needs. 2 Corinthians 12:9 offers comfort and assurance in times of difficulty: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." In our weakness, Jesus' strength is made manifest, and His grace becomes our sustaining force.
Lent invites us to embrace a posture of humility and repentance, recognizing our need for God's grace anew each day. As we journey through this season, let us remember the words of Hebrews 4:16: "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." In the midst of life's trials, we're invited to approach God's throne boldly, knowing that His grace is readily available to strengthen, comfort, and sustain us. Moreover, as we reflect on the significance of sola gratia during Lent, we're compelled to extend that same grace to others. Just as we have received God's unmerited favor, we're called to embody that grace in our interactions with those around us. Ephesians 4:32 exhorts us to "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Our experience of God's grace should overflow into acts of compassion, forgiveness, and love towards others, mirroring the boundless grace we've received. May we approach God's throne with confidence, receiving His mercy and finding grace to help in our time of need. And may we, in turn, extend that same grace to others, embodying the love and compassion of Christ in all that we do.

Dr. Dan Mickool Senior Warden
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In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of modern worship, the question of the necessity of ritual and liturgy in the church becomes increasingly relevant. With contemporary worship forms gaining popularity, there is a growing discussion about the merits of returning to traditional practices that have stood the test of time. Theologians like John Stott and N.T. Wright have significantly contributed to this discourse, shedding light on the profound significance of ritual and liturgy in shaping the Christian experience.

John Stott, a respected evangelical theologian, emphasized the importance of worship as a transformative encounter with God. While acknowledging that contemporary forms of worship may express creativity and relevance, Stott cautioned against becoming overly focused on individual preferences and emotions. He argued that ritual and liturgy, with their historical grounding, provide a sense of continuity with the Church's rich heritage and act as a safeguard against individualism. N.T. Wright, a prominent New Testament scholar, echoes Stott's sentiments by emphasizing the communal aspect of worship. Wright contends that liturgical practices connect worshippers across time and space, fostering a sense of unity with the global Church and the saints who have gone before. He sees the liturgy as a powerful means of transmitting the faith through generations, offering a communal engagement with God.

A highlight of liturgical traditions is the use of the law and gospel preaching. The liturgy provides a framework for both the proclamation of God's law, convincing hearts of sin, and the announcement of the gospel, offering the liberating message of grace. This dynamic interplay between law and gospel within the liturgy mirrors the biblical narrative, where God's righteous standards confront human brokenness, pointing us to the redemptive work of Christ.

As the hymn echoes through the sacred space:

"Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see."

This hymn encapsulates the essence of the gospel, emphasizing the amazing power of God's grace. The law exposes our need for redemption, highlighting our brokenness, while the gospel announces the message of salvation and restoration. With scripture serving as the foundation for the liturgy, psalms, hymns, and prayers find their place in our service reinforcing the holistic nature of worship, while engaging both heart and mind as we encounter God. The Book of Common Prayer, with its carefully crafted language, drawn extensively from Scripture provides a rich framework for worship. The call to embrace ritual and liturgy is not a rejection of spontaneity or contemporary expressions of worship. Instead, it is an invitation to integrate the timeless wisdom of tradition into the fabric of our faith. The gospel message, as proclaimed in both law and gospel addresses the entirety of the human experience. Quoting Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path," we see that the Word of God provides guidance for our journey. C.S. Lewis reminds us, "The language of the Book of Common Prayer is a literary and spiritual treasure. Its beauty and eloquence shape our worship, providing a profound connection to the sacred throughout the ages." Finally, Thomas Cranmer leaves us with these words, "The Book of Common Prayer's language is not a mere linguistic construct; it is a deliberate weaving of scriptural phrases, a conscious effort to immerse worshipers in the language of the Bible. In its pages, Scripture becomes the living dialogue between the Creator and His creation."

Dr. Dan Mickool Sr Warden


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As the Lenten season unfolds, Christians around the world engage in practices of reflection, repentance, and spiritual discipline. Lent, a 40-day period leading up to Easter, is traditionally marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. While these practices hold profound value, it's essential to strike a balance that aligns with the doctrine of sola fide, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned through our efforts. The doctrine of sola fide, meaning "faith alone," is a cornerstone of Protestant theology. It asserts that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ rather than through our works or deeds. In the context of Lent, this doctrine reminds us that our Lenten practices, no matter how sincere, do not earn our salvation or standing before God.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, beautifully captures the tension between our human struggles and God's unwavering love. In Romans 7:19-20, Paul laments, "For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me." This passage underscores the human condition, where even our best intentions fall short, yet God's love remains steadfast. Acknowledging our imperfections during Lent does not diminish the significance of our efforts. Instead, it redirects our focus towards reliance on God's grace. Lenten practices become opportunities for spiritual growth, humility, and a deeper understanding of our need for God.

Renowned theologian N.T. Wright offers insights into this balance, noting that Lent is not about "trying to earn God's favor" but rather "about trying to live in God's way." In embracing Lenten practices, we respond to God's love with gratitude, recognizing that our salvation is a gift received through faith. As we journey through Lent, let us engage in practices that draw us closer to God while keeping in mind the liberating truth of sola fide. Fasting, prayer, and acts of charity are not transactions to earn salvation but expressions of faith and obedience. In the words of Paul and the wisdom of N.T. Wright, let Lent be a season where we humbly acknowledge our shortcomings, embrace God's unconditional love, and grow in the grace that sustains us on this transformative journey.

Dan Mickool R.Ph, M.S, Ed.D
Sr. Warden
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​Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th in the Christian Church, marks the revelation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, notably illustrated by the story of the Magi's journey to find the Christ child. "Epiphany" originates from the Greek "epiphaneia," signifying manifestation or appearance. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the Magi, likely Zoroastrian scholars from the East, observed celestial signs indicating the birth of a significant king. Their study of ancient texts and celestial phenomena led them to recognize the star as a sign of a momentous event—the birth of a new ruler.
 
The Magi's journey stands as a universal symbol of humanity's quest for greater meaning. Their arrival, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, highlighted the meaning of Jesus as a royal, divine, and sacrificial figure. Epiphany signifies the revelation of Christ beyond any singular group, extending the promise of salvation to all nations, showcasing God's intention to offer salvation to “all those who believe”. This pursuit resonates with the biblical promise: "When you seek me with all your heart, you will find me" (Jeremiah 29:13).
 
"As with Gladness Men of Old," a hymn often sung during Epiphany, beautifully resonates with the journey of the Magi. The hymn's opening lines, "As with gladness men of old did the guiding star behold," tells the joyful experience the Magi found from seeking Christ. The verse "So, may we with willing feet ever seek Thy mercy seat" assures us we will find grace and mercy when we seek Jesus.  In essence, Epiphany surpasses historical narrative; it prompts us to persistently seek Christ as the answer to our deepest longings, urging us to acknowledge God's goodness and love. Just as the Magi found fulfillment in Jesus's presence, we, too, discover true meaning when we seek and find God in our epiphany today.

‘The devil… the prowde spirite … cannot endure to be mocked.” Saint Thomas More

          Those who remember the old Flip Wilson TV show will recall one of Flip’s characters, Geraldine (Flip in women’s clothing), who was mischievous and prone to doing naughty things. When called out, she would always say in a lilting voice, “the devil made me do it.” It was funny and Flip also featured the Reverend Leroy of the Church of What’s Happening Now opposing Satan and his works. In one episode, Reverend Leroy confronted the Devil himself (played by Bobby Darin) and defeated the old serpent handily.

          Well, at this time of Halloween we see evidence of devils and demons and lots of attention paid to the world of sinister spirits. Maybe too much attention, at least too much if it masks the reality of Satan at work today. For the Devil is an active spirit, Saint Peter warned us, like a roaring lion seeking to bring down Christ’s followers (1 Peter 5:8-9). The same man Jesus warned Satan could sift him like wheat (Lk 22:31-34) later proclaimed such a warning to us.
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          When tempted in the desert, Jesus confronted and defeated Satan (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-13), despite Satan’s attempts to confound the Lord with citations to the Bible.

“The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose. An evil soul producing holy witness Is like a villain with a smiling cheek, A goodly apple rotten at the heart. O, what a goodly outside falsehood hath!”
― William Shakespeare, The Merchant of Venice

In our small group we have been studying Genesis chapters 1-3. We have seen how Satan was permitted to be active even in the Garden of Eden, to lure Eve and Adam into willful disobedience to God, with disastrous consequences to mankind. Eve’s answer to God’s question, “What is this that you have done?” was, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” (Gen 3:13). In other words, the Devil made me do it.

          But there are some important things to remember about Satan, even as we acknowledge that he is active in our world and wishes us only evil things.
Consider,

1. Satan is a fallen angel (Jude 1:6), a created being not a deity, with only the capabilities and power God permits him to exercise. Satan has none of the attributes of God himself. He is not a god in opposition to God Almighty. He is more a direct opponent of the faithful angels and is in no way equal to God.
2.  Therefore, though Satan can move about the earth he is only able to be in one place working his mischief. For example, when Satan presents himself to God and obtains permission to trouble Job, he has been walking over the earth looking for trouble. He can only do what God suffers him to do. See Job 1:6-12, 2:1-10.
3. Satan has been defeated by Jesus, as foreshadowed from the beginning in Genesis 3. Though given license for a time to exercise limited power on earth, Satan will be completely defeated when Christ returns. See, e.g., Rev. 12:9, 20:2.
4. Thus, if we belong to Jesus, we have no need to fear Satan in any ultimate sense, even as we have to be on guard against his pernicious influence in our lives, his efforts to draw us into sinful deeds or to take away our confidence and joy in the Lord. Satan loves to whisper in a believer’s ear to undermine our hope. When we fail, Satan is at hand eager to tell us we’re no good, we’re not really Christians, we’re not really children of God. Don’t listen!
5. In popular literature and entertainment, Satan is often depicted as suave, sophisticate, appealing, wanting us to have the fun and pleasures God denies. This was essentially the appeal to Eve and Adam. Satan’s point of attack is on the truth of God, the trustworthiness of what God says (the Bible). We see this all the time. We see it in churches today that repudiate the clear teachings of scripture in favor of the mood of the culture today.
6. Satan always lies. As Jesus declared, Satan was a liar from the beginning (Jn 8:44).
7. Our attitude toward Satan needs to be balanced, not letting him terrify us or giving him too much sway, while also recognizing his reality and his menace. We defeat him in part by denying him the dignity and pride he wants, which well may have motivated him to lead a rebellion of angels against God.
8. We need to resist the devil. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7) We need to put on the whole armor of God. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6:10-13).

Pay no attention to the popular writers and entertainment merchants who like to glorify evil, and to depict Satan as powerful and able to defeat Christians (and Christian pastors and clergy, especially). Jesus has defeated Satan, and if we cling to Jesus, Satan has no power over us.