Tag: gratitude

Freedom Purchased Through Sacrifice

As We Celebrate Memorial Day Let be Very Aware of Our Freedom

Today we honor all those who have laid down their lives for our freedom, especially the brave men and women who gave everything on the battlefield. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom is precious and often comes at a great cost.

From the founding of nations to the protection of families and communities, countless heroes have stood courageously against evil, oppression, and injustice. Many never returned home. Their willingness to serve and sacrifice gave future generations the opportunity to live in peace, worship freely, speak openly, and pursue life with hope.

As Christians, we are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. At the Last Supper, Jesus said, “This is my body given up for you.” On the Cross, He laid down His life for the freedom of all humanity — freedom from sin, fear, hatred, and death itself.

True freedom begins with the right to life. Every human life is sacred because each person is created in the image of God. The sacrifices of soldiers protect earthly freedoms, while the sacrifice of Christ offers eternal freedom and salvation.

Both acts of sacrifice teach us powerful lessons about love, courage, service, and responsibility. We should never take these gifts lightly. Freedom calls us to care for one another, defend the weak, seek justice, and live with gratitude.

Memorial Day is more than a holiday. It is a time to remember. A time to pray for the families who lost loved ones. A time to honor veterans who served with courage. And a time to reflect upon the incredible love shown by Jesus Christ, who willingly gave His life so that we might truly live.

May we never forget those who sacrificed for our freedom. May we use that freedom wisely, with compassion, faith, and respect for all human life. And may we always remember the words of Christ:

“This is my body given up for you.”

Through sacrifice comes freedom. Through love comes victory.

Thank you for reading this article. Please share wit others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

Click Here to learn how you can help, while increasing your own income for a one-time $10 investment.

As We Celebrate Memorial Day Let be Very Aware of Our Freedom

Today we honor all those who have laid down their lives for our freedom, especially the brave men and women who gave everything on the battlefield. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom is precious and often comes at a great cost.

From the founding of nations to the protection of families and communities, countless heroes have stood courageously against evil, oppression, and injustice. Many never returned home. Their willingness to serve and sacrifice gave future generations the opportunity to live in peace, worship freely, speak openly, and pursue life with hope.

As Christians, we are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. At the Last Supper, Jesus said, “This is my body given up for you.” On the Cross, He laid down His life for the freedom of all humanity — freedom from sin, fear, hatred, and death itself.

True freedom begins with the right to life. Every human life is sacred because each person is created in the image of God. The sacrifices of soldiers protect earthly freedoms, while the sacrifice of Christ offers eternal freedom and salvation.

Both acts of sacrifice teach us powerful lessons about love, courage, service, and responsibility. We should never take these gifts lightly. Freedom calls us to care for one another, defend the weak, seek justice, and live with gratitude.

Memorial Day is more than a holiday. It is a time to remember. A time to pray for the families who lost loved ones. A time to honor veterans who served with courage. And a time to reflect upon the incredible love shown by Jesus Christ, who willingly gave His life so that we might truly live.

May we never forget those who sacrificed for our freedom. May we use that freedom wisely, with compassion, faith, and respect for all human life. And may we always remember the words of Christ:

“This is my body given up for you.”

Through sacrifice comes freedom. Through love comes victory.

Thank you for reading this article. Please share wit others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

Click Here to learn how you can help, while increasing your own income for a one-time $10 investment.

May 25, 2026
You Are Redeemed — But Salvation Requires Faithful Perseverance
Introduction

Many people today believe that salvation is automatic. They say, “Jesus died for my sins, so I am

You Are Redeemed — But Salvation Requires Faithful Perseveranc

Introduction

Many people today believe that salvation is automatic. They say, “Jesus died for my sins, so I am saved no matter how I live.” Yet Sacred Scripture teaches something deeper and more demanding.

Yes, by the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, humanity has been redeemed. The price has been paid. The door to eternal life has been opened. But salvation is not a one-time declaration spoken with the lips while the heart remains unchanged.

Saint Paul writes:

“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” — Philippians 2:12

These words remind us that salvation is not something to take lightly. Redemption was purchased by Christ, but salvation requires cooperation with God’s grace.

The Difference Between Redemption and Salvation

Redemption Is the Gift

When Jesus suffered during His Passion and died upon the Cross, He redeemed mankind. He paid the debt of sin that humanity could never repay.

Scripture says:

“You were bought with a price.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20

That price was the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ.

Through redemption:
- Sin no longer has absolute power over humanity.
- The gates of Heaven were opened.
- Grace became available to all.
- Forgiveness became possible.
Redemption is God’s great gift to the world.

Salvation Is the Response

Salvation, however, is our response to that gift.

God does not force anyone into Heaven. He calls us into a living relationship with Him. We must walk with Christ daily, repent of sin, seek holiness, and persevere faithfully until the end.

Jesus Himself said:

“He who endures to the end will be saved.” — Matthew 24:13

Notice the words “will be saved.” Salvation involves endurance, faithfulness, and perseverance.

Faith Must Become Action

Christianity Is Not Passive

Many people want the comfort of faith without the sacrifice of discipleship. Yet Jesus said:

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” — Luke 9:23

The Christian life is active.

It means:
- Loving difficult people.
- Forgiving those who hurt us.
- Resisting temptation.
- Feeding the hungry.
- Helping the poor.
- Remaining faithful in suffering.
- Living in prayer.
Faith that never changes our life is not living faith.

Saint James teaches:

“Faith without works is dead.” — James 2:26

Works do not earn salvation apart from God’s grace, but authentic faith produces obedience, love, and transformation.

Fear and Trembling Before God

Holy Reverence

When Saint Paul says to work out salvation with “fear and trembling,” he does not mean terror without hope. He means holy reverence before Almighty God.

Modern society often treats God casually. Yet Scripture repeatedly teaches reverence.

The fear of the Lord means:
- Respect for God’s holiness.
- Awareness of our weakness.
- Humility before divine judgment.
- Gratitude for mercy.
- A sincere desire not to offend God.
This holy fear protects us from pride and spiritual laziness.

The Danger of Spiritual Complacency

Do Not Drift Away

One of the greatest spiritual dangers is complacency.

A person may say:
- “I was baptized, so I’m fine.”
- “I believe in Jesus, so nothing else matters.”
- “God understands, so sin is no big deal.”
But Scripture warns believers repeatedly not to fall away.

Saint Paul wrote:

“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” — 1 Corinthians 10:12

Even after redemption, we must continue to seek God daily.

Prayer, repentance, worship, charity, and obedience are not optional parts of Christianity. They are the fruit of a living relationship with Christ.

The Cross Changes Everything

Jesus Calls Us Into Transformation

The Passion of Jesus was not merely an emotional event. It was the greatest act of sacrificial love in human history.

When we truly meditate upon the suffering of Christ:
- Pride begins to die.
- Selfishness is exposed.
- Gratitude grows.
- Mercy becomes possible.
- Love deepens.
The Cross is not simply something we admire. It is something we enter.

Jesus invites every believer to unite their suffering, struggles, and sacrifices with Him.

Living Redemption Daily

How We Cooperate With Grace

We live out redemption through daily faithfulness.

Some practical ways include:
1. Daily prayer.
2. Reading Scripture.
3. Frequent repentance.
4. Worship and participation in church.
5. Serving the poor and forgotten.
6. Forgiving others.
7. Rejecting habitual sin.
8. Seeking peace and holiness.
Every day becomes an opportunity to draw closer to Christ.

Conclusion

Yes, you are redeemed.

Jesus Christ suffered, died, and rose again for you. His mercy is beyond human understanding. His love opened the way to eternal life.

But salvation is not something to treat casually.

We are called to walk faithfully with Christ every day of our lives.

As Saint Paul reminds us:

“Work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” — Philippians 2:12

May we never waste the grace purchased by the Blood of Christ.

May we live with humility, repentance, perseverance, and love.

And may we one day hear the words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others,

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com

P.S. Click Here to check out the Kind Virus.
May 10, 2026
The More We Become Like Christ, the Happier We Are
Why Christlike Living Brings Happiness

In a world constantly chasing happiness through success, possessions, and fleeting pleasures, many find themselves still searching—still unsatisfied. Yet, the message at the heart of Christianity offers a radically different path: true and lasting joy is found in becoming more like Jesus Christ.

This idea may sound simple, even familiar. But its depth is life-changing. The more our thoughts, actions, and hearts align with Christ, the more we experience a profound, unshakable happiness that the world cannot give—or take away.

What Does It Mean to Become Like Christ?

Becoming like Christ doesn’t mean perfection—it means transformation. It is a daily process of growing in qualities that Jesus embodied:
- Love – showing genuine care for others, even when it’s difficult
- Compassion – reaching out to those in need
- Humility – putting others before ourselves
- Forgiveness – letting go of bitterness and extending grace
- Faith – trusting God even when life is uncertain
These traits are not just moral ideals; they are the building blocks of a joyful life.

Why Christlike Living Brings Happiness

1. It Aligns Us with Our True Purpose

We are created with a spiritual purpose. When we live in harmony with Christ’s teachings, we step into that purpose—and purpose brings deep satisfaction.

2. It Frees Us from Destructive Emotions

Anger, envy, pride, and resentment weigh heavily on the soul. Christlike attributes—especially forgiveness and humility—release us from these burdens, making room for peace.

3. It Strengthens Relationships

Love and compassion transform how we interact with others. As we become more Christlike, our relationships become healthier, deeper, and more meaningful.

4. It Brings Inner Peace

Even in trials, those who follow Christ often experience a quiet confidence and calm. This peace is not dependent on circumstances—it is rooted in faith.

The Journey, Not Perfection

It’s important to remember: becoming like Christ is a journey, not a destination achieved overnight. There will be setbacks, doubts, and struggles. But every small step—every act of kindness, every moment of patience—moves us closer.

God does not expect perfection; He invites progress.

How to Grow Closer to Christ Daily

Here are simple, practical ways to grow:
- Pray daily – Speak honestly with God and listen in stillness
- Study scripture – Learn from Christ’s words and example
- Serve others – Look for opportunities to help, even in small ways
- Reflect regularly – Ask yourself how you can improve and grow
- Practice gratitude – Recognize blessings and cultivate joy
These habits gradually shape the heart and bring us closer to Christ’s character.

A Joy That Lasts

Happiness that depends on circumstances is temporary. But the joy that comes from becoming more like Christ is enduring. It grows deeper over time, rooted in love, faith, and eternal perspective.

As we strive to follow His example, we don’t just become better people—we become happier people.happiness,

And in that transformation, we discover a truth both simple and profound:

The closer we come to Christ, the closer we come to true joy.

Thank you for reading this blog. Please share with others.

Rick Herring
thmjmj@gmail.com
April 9, 2026