Expressing Gratitude in Every Season of Life

In our life, as Christians, gratitude is a powerful and transformative practice that can bring light to even the darkest of seasons. The concept of thanksgiving is deeply rooted in our faith, reminding us to be thankful in all circumstances, even when life presents its most challenging moments.

It’s easy to give thanks when everything is going well, when we’re blessed with health, prosperity, and happiness. However, the true test of our faith and our character comes when we find ourselves navigating through seasons of hurt or darkness. It’s in these trying times that our ability to find things to be grateful for can truly shine as a testament to our faith.

  1. Gratitude in Hardship: It’s during times of adversity that we discover the incredible power of gratitude. When we’re faced with hardships, we may not be thankful for the pain or suffering, but we can find gratitude in the lessons learned, the strength gained, and the opportunity for growth. In these moments, we can turn to the Lord in prayer, seeking His guidance and strength, and find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone.
  2. Thanksgiving as a Lifestyle: Although November and the Thanksgiving holiday is a great reminder and way to focus your mind on being grateful, gratitude should not be reserved for a specific day or season of the year. It’s a lifestyle, a daily choice to count our blessings, no matter how small they may seem. Even in the midst of trials, we can be thankful for the love of family and friends, the kindness of strangers, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Gratitude can become a source of light that radiates from within us, even when, especially when, the world around us seems dark.
  3. A Season for Everything: Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” This verse reminds us that life is a journey filled with various seasons—some joyous, some challenging. Each season has its purpose, and we can find reasons to be grateful in all of them. In times of abundance, we thank God for His provision, and in times of scarcity, we thank Him for the opportunity to rely on His unfailing grace.
  4. Community and Support: Often, our gratitude can be deeply intertwined with the community of believers who surround us. In times of trial, we can be thankful for the shoulders we lean on, the prayers offered on our behalf, and the hands that reach out to help. Our faith community can serve as a wellspring of encouragement and gratitude, reminding us that we are part of something much larger than ourselves.

As we journey through the various seasons of life, let’s make it a priority to cultivate a heart of gratitude, not just during Thanksgiving, but throughout the year. In every circumstance, let’s seek the silver linings, count our blessings, lean on Jesus, remember God’s promises for us, and remember that God is with us through every season.

Remember, dear friends, that finding things to be grateful for in every season of life is a powerful act of faith, one that can ignite the light of Christ within us and shine brightly for all to see. In this way, we can be a source of hope and inspiration to others, drawing them closer to the love and grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

How to Connect with Gods Creation

orange wildflowers blooming in a field
orange wildflowers blooming in a field“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Summer is here! It is the perfect time to get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors – fresh air, birds chirping, green grass, growing plants, blue skies, and incredible sunrises and sunsets.

“The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftmanship.”                                      (Psalms 19:1)

In seasons like this, we can’t help but take in and relish in God’s beauty. How often do you slow down from your busy schedule to take in the beauty? Well, there’s no better time to enjoy and connect with God’s creation, free from man-made distractions. Take advantage of this beauty by enjoying a walk in nature with a friend, sitting on the porch or by a campfire with family, going fishing, kayaking, or canoeing.

When we get out and connect with God’s creation, it allows us to clear our minds of negative distractions and be present in the moment, hear God’s calling, and provide clarity to what our purpose is in life.

“Stop and consider the wondrous works of God. Do you know how God lays his command upon them and causes the lightning of his cloud to shine? Do you know the balancing of the clouds, the wondrous works of him who is perfect in knowledge?” (Job 37:14-16)

Apart from the sunshine and beautiful weather, the Lord has also made thunderstorms to rain down on his creation and allow it to grow. There is beauty in this, too. Lightening brightens the sky and accentuates the clouds and the earth for a different view of His creation.

“He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate – bringing forth food from the earth.” (Psalm 104:14)

Everything around us can give insight into what God has meant for our lives. Sometimes we just need to stop, take things in, and listen. The simplicity of God’s creation can catapult us forth to see what He has made us to be.

So what can you do today to enjoy God’s creation and learn His purpose for your life? If you’re struggling to find time to connect with God during this busy season of life, here are five others ways to help keep God at the center of your life.

“O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom, you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures. Here is the ocean, vast and wide, teeming with life of every kind, both large and small.” (Psalms 104:25-25)

Be A Light

Light shining through a canyon

“In a world full of hate, be a light. When you do somebody wrong, make it right.
 Don’t hide in the dark, you were born to shine. In a world full of hate, be a light.”
(Lyrics from Thomas Rhett’s “In a World Full of Hate be a Light”)

Song lyrics always have a way of reminding us of what we need to hear, say, or do don’t they? And this song is exactly what we all need to hear. In our world right now, many people are feeling and seeing darkness. This song reminds us how we can be a light. And it all starts with the little things in life. Take some of these examples from the song for instance:
·  When you do someone wrong, make it right.Light shining through a canyon
·   In a time full of war, be peace.
·   In a time full of doubt, just believe.
·   In a place that needs change, make a difference.
·   In a time full of noise, just listen.
·   In a race that you can’t win, slow it down.

These are great reminders when things in the world are bringing us down.

The Little Things Matter

The ladies here at Ignite came up with a few additional, simple things that we can easily do for the people in our lives who need us to be a light. It could be little things like cooking dinner, doing the dishes, sending a card of encouragement, letting someone know that you are praying for them, taking a walk, listening to the one you’re with, or giving someone a hug.

Although we might not realize how much of a difference these things can make, they can have a HUGE impact for the right person. One act of kindness, one simple conversation, or one smile may not seem monumental at the time, but the little things add up. This brings another song lyric to mind,
“I might only have one match. But I can make an explosion.” – “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten.

So, while we might be feeling like the smallest boat floating upon a vast ocean, consider how one word or one simple gesture could “make an explosion” and make a BIG difference for someone in our life.

It is beautiful how both songs, though they have different words, tie together to remind us that it does NOT take BIG things to make a difference in this world. When you put many lighted matches together, you can truly light up a whole room, a whole community, and eventually, ignite the whole world.

Now, go be a light.

Easter: A Season of Renewal

Beautiful white and light pink flowers
Jesus Christ is RISEN!

This momentous occasion signifies the start of the Easter season. According to the Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene arrived at the tomb where Jesus was buried only to discover it was empty. Then, an angel appeared to her and told her that Jesus had risen. And it was in that very moment when everyone began to realize the true depth of what had just happened.

The Easter season is a time of renewal. It is a time of joy and rejoicing in the risen Christ. The season lasts from Easter Sunday to Pentecost – 50 days – and culminates with Jesus’ ascension to heaven and sending forth the Holy Spirit upon the church.

These days are a great time for us to reflect on Jesus’ time on earth in His risen body. He appeared to some who did not even recognize Him and others, like Thomas, who needed to see and touch Him to believe He had risen. (John 20:24-29)

Throughout this joyous season, we can learn about Jesus and read about Him in the Bible. Even though we were not there to witness His life or resurrection, we can continue to develop our relationship with Him and see how it may impact our life.

What was Once Dead, Becomes New Again Beautiful white and light pink flowers

Throughout this new season, our surroundings are beginning to change with the arrival of Spring. We are beginning to see sprouting green grass, budding trees, and flowers breaking through the earth. Spring showers refresh everything around us.

Not only are our surroundings turning green and brightening up the world, but new life is also evident. Many may see calves, lambs, foals, and other baby animals learning to navigate life. Birds are migrating back to their northern homes. Other animals are emerging from hibernation.

As we look around, we see nature and God’s creation letting us know we are starting anew during this season. Spring is a reminder that God continues to make things new. We are never too old to learn more about God and His goodness. Rain provides nourishment to the plants like God’s word speaks to our hearts and shows us things we never thought possible.
As the winds seem to blow harder and harder, have you ever considered that it might just be the Holy Spirit blowing God’s love into your heart? Are you open to change and renewal this season?

Many of us are beginning to do yardwork and spring cleaning. So, how can we do some “spring cleaning” in our faith lives? Here are some tips:

  • Start a new devotional – check out our Foundation devotional to get you started!
  • Get into the habit of reading Scripture daily.
  • Join a Bible study or faith sharing group to learn more about your faith and experience how Jesus has touched others’ lives.

What other ways are you renewing and refreshing your spiritual life this Easter season?

“That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither – whatever they do prospers.” – Psalms 1:3 (NIV)

Lent: A Season of Reflection and Growth

Lent is a time to prepare for the resurrection of Jesus at Easter. No matter what you call them, the basics of Lent are the same – prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

The 40 days of Lent allow us to reflect on Jesus’ time alone in the desert. This experience was not glamourous or easy. It was a time for Jesus to listen, hear God’s calling, and discover His purpose.

This time of year allows for recentering and focusing, especially on Jesus’ life and the end of His life on earth – His sacrifice. Allow yourself time with your inner thoughts and time to connect with the plans God has for your life.

Common Lenten Traditions
  • Midweek church services to come together as a community.
  • Reflection opportunities – Praying, playing the piano, reading the Bible, or sitting and meditating with God.
  • Stations of the Cross and going to confession in the Catholic Church.
  • Prayer – Improving our prayer life during Lent can allow us to become closer to God. We can do this by reading Scripture, participating in a Bible study, or daily prayer. Continuing and furthering a relationship with God can help us in our daily lives.
  • Fasting – Many times, people give up chocolate, pop, or other foods during Lent. However, Lent can also be a time to fast and rid ourselves of unnecessary “things” to make space for God in our lives. We could fast from gossiping, social media, or something that takes us away from our relationship with God.
  • Almsgiving – This can be many things, giving of your time, talents, and most commonly, your treasures. This is our opportunity to serve others just as Christ would do.

Though these are a few common Lenten traditions, you don’t necessarily need to do them all to participate in this season.

What we are ‘supposed to do’ throughout Lent isn’t actually spelled out in the Bible. The apostles and early church did not actually observe Lent, but rather it became a tradition in the fourth century AD. Just as they did in the early days, though, during this time we can refocus and center our lives while modeling Jesus’ life.

The actions we take during these 40 days are not meant to happen solely during this season. The intent is to build habits that will continue year-round. So, whatever your Lenten traditions may be, remember the reason for the season.

St. Patrick

saint

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!

“May your troubles be less. And your blessing be more. And nothing but happiness, come through your door.” – Irish blessing

No matter their heritage, most people claim to be slightly Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Many associate this day with the color green, shamrocks, green beer, corned beef and cabbage, leprechauns, the saying “Kiss me I’m Irish,” etc.

Whether you are Irish or not, March 17th celebrates St. Patrick, the primary patron saint of Ireland. He was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland. He is known for writing the prayer “The Breastplate of St. Patrick.”

St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to parts of Ireland and was likely somewhat responsible for the Christianization of the Picts and Anglo-Saxons. St. Patrick often used shamrocks to describe the Holy Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Entire kingdoms converted to Christianity after hearing his message.

St. Patrick’s Day was originally celebrated in Ireland with religious services and feasts in honor of St. Patrick. When Irish immigrants brought the traditions to the United States, the day eventually became a secular celebration of Irish culture.

Like all saints, St. Patrick centered his life in Christ. Everything he did was done out of a belief in the message of Jesus Christ. St. Patrick’s life became a living gospel.

 

How to live like St. Patrick?

Living like a saint may be easier said than done, but trying to embody several characteristics of the saints is a great way to start. Saints lead by example in how they love and believe in God. We should follow their lead and start to become the example we see in them.

According to Pope Francis, being a saint doesn’t necessarily require spending long hours in prayer, but rather living “a life open to God in good times and bad.”

We are all called to live like Christ did with a life centered in love. To focus on being the best, most compassionate Christian we can be. We can be humble and work to serve God to the best of our ability. We can make a positive difference in others’ lives.

Each of us has a unique calling from God to live with purpose and love. When we look to the lives of the saints we realize that despite their flaws they, too, were able to continue to serve Him. We can and should do the same. We encourage you to study the lives of the saints to see which traits you would like to embody to live a more purpose-filled, fulfilling life.

Prayer Practices

Have you ever wondered if you’re praying ‘the right way’? We’re here to tell you that there really isn’t a right or wrong way to pray. It’s all about enhancing your relationship with God and listening or focusing on what He is trying to tell you.

Prayer is personal. It brings you closer to God. Your relationship with God evolves and deepens the more you pray and spend time with Jesus.

Each time we pray, it is typically for a different reason or season in our life. If you struggle to make time to pray or aren’t quite sure how to start, here are a few best practices to consider.

  • Find a designated time each day to spend time in prayer, because developing a consistent routine results in healthy habits! Maybe start with praying at the beginning and/or end of your day. That could eventually expand into spontaneous prayer throughout your day when the spirit moves you to pray. Be aware and look for moments when prayer is needed.
  • Pray simply. You might think you need to have a lengthy prayer or something profound prepared, but God listens to our prayers during moments of need or times of thankfulness, no matter what words we use. God listens to even our shortest prayers in a sudden time of need. You can talk to God like you talk to a friend.
  • Read the Bible. Look up a Bible verse and pray by reflecting on the words. Taking time to read Scripture helps us get to know God even better. Let the words assist you in finding specific and effective ways to continue your conversation with God and aid in prayer requests of yourself and the people you love.

The prayer process can include finding something you are grateful for, acknowledging when you might not have been the best version of yourself, exploring significant moments in your life with God, asking for forgiveness, and lifting up certain people in your life who might need prayer, and asking God to bless them.

No matter how you pray, you are talking to God. He is your friend, and He is always listening.

St. Valentine

saint valentine

saint valentineAlthough Valentine’s Day is most popularly known as a day for roses, chocolates, romance, and wining and dining, it is also known as the Feast of St. Valentine.

St. Valentine is the patron saint of lovers, epileptics and beekeepers. He is one of only two saints – Valentine and Patrick – who have their feast days listed as holidays on ordinary calendars.

Though this saint’s name has become synonymous with love and affection, little is known about him, except that he was a Roman priest and martyr (a person considered to have died because of their testimony for Jesus or faith in Jesus).

“Although we may not understand why a priest is the patron saint of lovers, it’s easy to know why we have a saint especially assigned to the virtue of love. Love is an essential ingredient for life.” (365 Saints by Woodeene Koenig-Bricker)

What is a saint?

Some might ask what makes a saint, a Saint. According to Christian teachings, a saint (broadly speaking) is anyone who follows Jesus and lives their life according to His teaching. Saints with a capital ‘S’ are those who led lives of holiness and heroic virtue while on earth and are now officially declared and recognized by the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.

“Heroic” virtue refers to a saint’s ability to overcome sinful tendencies and temptations. They weren’t immune to sin, and many of them had to struggle for years to conquer their sinful passions. Saints weren’t perfect. They made mistakes just like everyone else. But what sets them apart with the title “saint” is that they did not stay down when they fell. By God’s grace, these holy men and women stood up, brushed off the dirt and kept moving forward.*

The remarkable thing about a lot of Saints is they were regular, everyday people. And they experienced life’s ups and downs just like the rest of us. However, they listened to God’s calling for their life. They made it their purpose to live an honorable and holy life.

So, as we enjoy this beautiful Valentine’s Day holiday, don’t forget the roots of the holiday from St. Valentine. Consider how you can also demonstrate your love for those around you, just as Jesus shows his love for each one of us.

* https://aleteia.org/2021/04/27/what-is-a-saint-in-the-catholic-church/

How to Be More Comfortable Reading the Bible

bible

bibleHere at Ignite, we love scripture! We believe the Bible is a powerful tool that allows us to understand God’s plan, His love and how we should live according to His will. 

Within our community, we often hear phrases like “I don’t know where to start,” or “I’m not comfortable reading the Bible”. So, today we decided to pull together our favorite tips and pointers for how to become more comfortable while reading your Bible!

1) Find a Translation You Understand:
  • Did you know there are over 450 English translations of the Bible? Finding a translation that is easy for you to read and understand is a must! We recommend either NIV, ESV, or NKJV versions. 
2) Find a Bible You Love:
3) Insert Bible Tabs:
  • One of the biggest reasons so many people feel uncomfortable reading the Bible is because they struggle to find certain Books or verses. We recommend getting Bible tabs and attaching them to the correct pages within your Bible. Our favorites include:  
4) Do Some Research:
  • One of the easiest ways to learn more about the Bible, the people in it, or certain verses is to do research! So, if you are confused about a verse or want to learn more a certain book in the Bible, we recommend using these websites:
5) Find a Friend or Group:
  • We are called to be in community, and reading the Bible with another person is a great way to do just that! So, ask a friend, join a small group at your local church or an online community. We encourage you to be bold, take a leap of faith, and put yourself out there – you never know what God may have in store for you!

5 Ways to Keep God at the Center of Busy Seasons

keep God at the center

keep God at the centerThe kids are back in school, sports are in full swing, and autumn is right around the corner! Just like that, the relaxed mentality of summer is thrown out the window and replaced with an activity-filled agenda.

As much as we love the cooler days, football-filled nights, and everything flannel and pumpkin, we know this is a crazy and busy season. We know this because we are right there with you! That is why today’s blog post is regarding our favorite ways we set aside time for rest, fellowship, and communion with God in our busiest of seasons.

5 Ways to Keep God at the Center of Busy Seasons:
1) Family Prayer Before Meals

Growing up, my brother and I would have completely different schedules. Dance and volleyball this night, football and band that night. As chaotic as our days were, my parents made it known that we would eat supper together as a family and say a prayer before each meal. Dinner prayers are a simple and easy way to bring your family together, give thanks, and reflect on all that God has done throughout the day.

2) Listen to a Christian Podcast:

Listening to a Christian Podcast while running errands, going for a walk, or cleaning the house is an easy and effective way to grow in your faith and keep a grace-based mindset. Some of our favorites include:

3) Ignite Intention Calendar:

Here at Ignite, one of our favorite ways to keep Jesus at the center of each week is by filling out our Ignite Intention Calendar. There are so many incredible features within our Intention calendar that allow you to read scripture, plan time with your family, and create a life of intention.

4) Worship Music:

Worship music is one of the easiest ways to put yourself in a good mood and find peace amid every activity and event. There are so many uplifting and encouraging Christian songs on the radio that you are sure to find a new favorite.

5) Sabbath:

Exodus 20:8-10 reads, Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. The most important thing you can do on any busy week is take time to rest and recharge as a family. You are called to live a life of purpose, but don’t forget to take time and just be.