Holistic Salvation.

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." ~Isaiah 43:18-19

By the time we get to this verse, God has already freed his people from physical bondage from the Egyptians and the Babylonians. He's using Isaiah to make it very clear that this NEW recue is very different. This NEW thing he's doing will (through Christ) accomplish the deeper work of holistic salvation. He's saying "don't think about this in terms of what you've seen in the past. Don't get bogged down in the physical nature of previous deliverance! ~ Can't you sense in your spirt this NEW and DEEPER thing?" Jesus changes everything!

Isaiah also calls the modern day reader, the servant, the Christ follower to turn from our past and toward holistic salvation. He admonishes us not to limit our faith to "get out of jail free card" that saves us from hell and gets us into heaven. The NEW thing is Christ and his mission worked out in the earth.

Maybe you have never considered stepping out of your confort zone to serve a neighbor in need. Maybe you are in introvert and showing up at a stranger's front door feels nearly impossible. Let me encourage you with this verse:

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth."~Acts 1:8

Let's pray... for Holy Spirit BOLDNESS, so that we can participate in and receive the fullness of our salvation! P.s Boldness doesn't mean extraverted-ness (*probably not a word). It's more like bravery and determination.

Lord, this new work, this Christ work is Comprehensive. It addresses every aspects of life ( spiritual, emotional, physical, social, and material). Open our minds and hearts to deeper connection with you and with the families we serve. Help us to serve more fully, so that you can be more fully seen.

God, your work is Transformative. It's not just for forgiveness. Give us endurance for a lifelong journey with Holy Spirit to become more like you. Mold us. Grow us. Make a path in the wilderness and give us sight to see it and the wisdom and courage to walk it.

Lord, your work is Healing & Restorative. Jesus, we know that your salvation makes us whole. Restore what has been broken in each of us and in creation. Guide us to the steams you are making on our wastelands.

God, your work goes Beyond the Individual. Although I strive to be closer to you every day, I know it's not all about me. Aim our hearts toward a just and a thriving society, one that reflects your will for all humanity.  Put our hands to work according to your purposes.

Thank you Lord, that your new thing is for Now & Later. Thank you for the deliverance you offer NOW, for walking with us NOW, For making THIS day better with your presence... and thank you for the promise of an eternity with you. ~Amen

Check out Open CarePortal needs HERE.

These needs are just one simple way to engage in your community. Helping a neighbor not only provides some physical, social and emotional support a time when its most needed... when done in the right spirit, it can also boost your own wellbeing. These little acts of generosity can help aim our hearts and use our hands toward his purposes. Let's serve together!!! If you need help or want company- contact me. renae.denbow@careportal.org