Letting Your Light Shine Blog

No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace

1/8/2025

Author
Elder Jim Fairchild

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the phrase "No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace" serves as a profound reminder of what our faith journey can bring to our lives. This statement encapsulates a truth that resonates deeply within the journey of discipleship, guiding us toward a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.

“Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Matthew 6:10 NRSV

First believers continued Christ’s mission by proclaiming the Living Christ, inviting all people into community, valuing the worth of each person, generously and compassionately meeting their needs, and pursuing justice and peace for everyone.

Seeking God’s will on earth as it is in heaven is to try to make God’s kingdom tangible among us, in this life. Zion is a world safe for the endangered and vulnerable, a place where the lamb and the lion shall lie down together without any anger. This is what we mean in our mission statement about promoting communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.

Understanding the Blog Statement

At first glance, the phrase might seem simplistic, yet it carries a powerful message. The first part, "No God No Peace," suggests that without a relationship with God, true peace is elusive. The absence of spiritual connection often leaves individuals feeling restless and searching for meaning in temporary or superficial pursuits. This lack of peace can manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, discontent, or a sense of emptiness.

The second part, "Know God Know Peace," speaks to the profound serenity that comes from knowing and experiencing God's presence in our lives. God yearns to establish a lasting covenant of peace with humankind and with all of creation. It emphasizes that engaging in a relationship with God allows one to find inner peace, regardless of external circumstances. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep-seated sense of assurance and calm that anchors us amidst life's challenges.

“Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life. Follow Christ in the way that leads to God’s peace and discover the blessings of all of the dimensions of salvation.”
D&C 163:2a

Applying the Statement to Our Discipleship Journey

Discipleship is a journey of learning, growth, and transformation. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that reflects His teachings and love. The statement "Know God Know Peace" is particularly relevant to this journey, as it underscores the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God to stay focused on the mission.

Living the peace of Jesus Christ involves generously and compassionately offering witness, ministry, sacraments, and community life that reconciles and restores people to right or righteous relationships with God, themselves, others, and creation. This holistic approach to proclaiming and demonstrating the gospel is faithful to our best understanding of God’s will. This approach is the fullest meaning of restoration.

Embracing Community
Discipleship also involves engaging with a community of believers. The gospel of Jesus Christ emphasizes the importance of community and its role in the spiritual development of individuals. We are called to create communities of Christ’s peace in our families and congregations and across villages, tribes, nations, and throughout creation. In community we experience God's presence through the love and kindness of sharing with others, reinforcing the peace that comes from knowing Him.

“Heed the urgent call to become a global family united in the name of the Christ, committed in love to one another, seeking the kingdom for which you yearn and to which you have always been summoned. That kingdom shall be a peaceable one and it shall be known as Zion.”
D&C 161:6b

A disciple pondering all of the world’s problems knelt before God in fervent prayer, his heart breaking from all of the pain, suffering and injustice he has witnessed in the world.

"Dear God," he prayed, "look at all the injustice, poverty, pain and suffering in Your world! Why don't You send help?"

God responded, "I did send help. I sent you."

The peace of Jesus Christ encompasses all the promises, hopes, and blessings of the gospel as revealed by God through Christ, and affirmed by the Holy Spirit, God’s promised presence within our midst.

The statement "No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace" beautifully encapsulates the essence of our discipleship journey. We share the peace of Jesus Christ by caring for one another, for all people, and for the earth itself, and invite others to come, be transformed, and then go forth to serve others.

So where do we begin? I believe the following scripture is a good place to start.

“Above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”
D&C 163:3b

Visit the Pursue Peace page on this website to learn more. We invite you to join us!

Pursue Peace

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Celebrating the Epiphany: Revelations and Our Discipleship Journey

12/12/2024

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

The Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is a significant event in the Christian calendar that marks the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus Christ. This celebration highlights the journey of the Three Kings, also known as the Wise Men or Magi, who followed a star to honor the newborn king with their treasures. This profound story not only commemorates a pivotal moment in Christian theology but also serves as an inspiring metaphor for our own personal journey of discipleship.

The Journey of the Magi

The journey of the Magi is a story rich with symbolism and meaning. These wise men, often thought to be astrologers or scholars from the East, embarked on a long and arduous journey, guided by a mysterious star, to find and honor the newborn king. Upon their arrival, they presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each carrying its own symbolic weight—gold for kingship, frankincense for divinity, and myrrh for suffering and death.

The Magi's journey is a testament to the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, they faced, their determination to follow the star and find Jesus reflects a deep commitment to discovering and acknowledging the divine.

Scripture Reference Matthew 2:1-12 NRSV

Relating the Epiphany to
Our Personal Discipleship Journey

The narrative of the Epiphany and the journey of the Magi offers profound insights into our own discipleship journey. Just as the Magi were guided by a star, we too are called to seek and follow the light of Christ in our lives. This journey often requires us to step out in faith, embracing the unknown and overcoming obstacles along the way.

"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16 NSRV

Seeking Truth and Wisdom

Like the Magi, our discipleship journey involves a continuous quest for truth and wisdom. This means being open to learning, exploring our faith deeply, and allowing ourselves to be transformed by the teachings and example of Jesus.

Disciples are called to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the scriptures so that they may ever increase in love for God, neighbor, and self; uphold the dignity and worth of all persons, and faithfully follow the way of Jesus Christ.

Offering Our Gifts

The gifts of the Magi remind us to offer our own gifts of our talents, treasure, time, and testimony. In our journey of discipleship, we are called to use these gifts to serve others and to contribute to the building of Christ’s Peaceable Kingdom.

“God calls whomever God calls from among committed disciples, according to their gifts, to serve and reach all humankind.”
D&C 165:4a

Embracing the Journey

The path of discipleship is not always straightforward. It requires resilience, patience, and trust in God's guidance. Embracing this journey means being willing to adapt, grow, and persevere, even when the road is challenging.

When your call to follow Christ in Mission comes; understand that He has a plan for your gifts and talents. If you place your trust in Him and listen carefully to his call, He will use your gifts in a manner which best suits his Mission, and not necessarily what you might expect.

“The mission of Jesus Christ is what matters most for the journey ahead.”
D&C 164:9f

The celebration of the Epiphany and the story of the Magi provide a rich tapestry of symbolism and inspiration for our personal discipleship journey. As we reflect on this event, let us be reminded of the divine revelation in Christ’s call to put our lives into mission is a powerful reminder of our purpose as believers. Responding to this call requires a deep commitment to living a life that is centered on compassion, justice, and peacemaking.

Ministry is humble service offered by disciples who follow Jesus. It is creating relationships that inclusively share Christ’s peace and boundless love. Disciples choose to accept God’s grace, ground themselves in God’s love for them and all people, and generously share Christ’s peace with everyone they meet.

“My Spirit is reaching out to numerous souls even now and there are many who will respond if you, my people, will bear affirmative testimony of my love and my desires for all to come unto me.”
D&C 153:9b

May our Discipleship Journey, like that of the Magi, lead us to a deeper understanding and experience of God's love and presence in our lives, and the lives of those we meet on our journey.

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Cultivating a Spirit of Gratitude

11/8/2024

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Elder Jim Fairchild

“Generosity in response to Jesus Christ is a witness of faith and hope…it proclaims that I have confidence that God’s purposes are being fulfilled, and I want to be part of that fulfillment.”
Community of Christ President Steve Veazey

Generosity is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of giving and kindness. Faithful disciples not only initiate acts of generosity, they anticipate their transformative impact. Actions of uncommon generosity are prophetic. They look beyond the horizon of what is…to see what could be. Building upon the foundation of Community of Christ’s Enduring Principle of Grace and Generosity, it is important to delve deeper into how gratitude can manifest in our daily lives.

“You who are my disciples must be found continuing in the forefront of those organizations and movements which are recognizing the worth of persons and are committed to bringing the ministry of my Son to bear on their lives.”
D&C 151:9

A way to demonstrate gratitude is by serving others. Christians can volunteer their time and resources to help those in need, reflecting God’s love through acts of kindness and compassion. Giving back to the community and supporting charitable causes is a tangible way to express gratitude. Christians can tithe to their church, donate to organizations that help the less fortunate, and contribute to humanitarian efforts.

“From the earliest days you have been given a sacred principle that declares the inestimable worth of all persons. Do not forget. The One who created all humankind grieves at the shameful divisions within the human family. A prophetic people must work tirelessly to tear down walls of separation and to build bridges of understanding. You hold precious lives in your hands. Be gentle and gracious with one another. A community is no stronger than the weakest within it. Even as the One you follow reached out to those who were rejected and marginalized, so must the community that bears his name.”
D&C 162:6

Showing love and kindness to those around us is a powerful way to demonstrate gratitude to God. By treating others with respect, empathy, and compassion, Christians can reflect the love and grace they have received from God.

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:15-17

Gratitude is a central theme in the Bible, reminding believers to appreciate God's blessings and grace. Gratitude can also be expressed by living a life of purpose and meaning. Christians can use their talents and gifts to make a positive impact in the world, spreading God’s love and grace wherever they go.

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16

This passage encourages believers to maintain a spirit of gratitude and joy regardless of life's circumstances, as it aligns with God's will.

If you are on the Internet or social media, you know that December 3, 2024 is Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the United States, Giving Tuesday stands as a reminder to support the causes we care about and to encourage generosity in all its forms.

Participation in Giving Tuesday can take many forms, from making a monetary donation to volunteering time and skills. Individuals can support their favorite charities, start a fundraiser, or even perform small acts of kindness within their communities. Organizations often use this day to launch campaigns, engage with their supporters, and highlight the difference their work makes.

As this date approaches, you will probably be inundated with pleas from many worthwhile non-profit and charitable organizations for contributions. Many of these organizations, especially those that provide assistance to the poor and needy have been overwhelmed this year, while their contributions are significantly down. With so much need, what can one do?

Social media plays a significant role in amplifying the message of Giving Tuesday. The hashtag #GivingTuesday is used to share stories of generosity, inspire others to participate, and create a sense of global unity. It serves as a powerful reminder that everyone has something to give, whether it's time, money, or resources, and that small acts of kindness can collectively make a significant impact. By encouraging a culture of generosity, Giving Tuesday not only supports immediate needs but also fosters long-term change by inspiring ongoing philanthropic efforts.

Events like Giving Tuesday remind us of the power of generosity and the collective impact we can achieve when we come together to support the greater good. By incorporating generosity practices into their lives, Christians can cultivate a spirit of gratitude that not only honors God but also enriches their own lives and the lives of those around them.

May you be filled with joy as you take the time to separate yourself from the noise of life and consider the nature, meaning, and personal application of the call to give as God gives.

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Are you Spiritually Fit?

10/1/2024

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It is hard to stay spiritually fit when you only exercise once a week on Sunday morning.

Maintaining spiritual fitness is much like maintaining physical fitness; it requires consistent effort and dedication beyond just a single hour each week attending a church worship service.

Elder Jim Fairchild

There are many ways to cultivate spirituality without belonging to a specific religious institution. Some people find solace in nature and spend time outdoors to connect with a higher power. Others may practice meditation or mindfulness to achieve a sense of inner peace and clarity. Still, others may explore various spiritual practices from different faith communities to create their own personalized spiritual path.

Community of Christ may resonate with those who consider themselves spiritual but not religious because of its emphasis on personal spiritual experiences and individual journeys. Rather than prescribing rigid dogmas or doctrines, this faith community encourages members to seek their own understanding of spirituality and to develop a personal relationship with the divine.

What's the difference between Prayer and Spiritual Practice?

There is little distinction between these two terms except that prayer is essentially our relationship with God and spiritual practice is the form or structure the prayer takes. All spiritual practice is prayer. It is all about a relationship with God.

Spiritual Practices are forms of prayer that draw us deeper into relationship with God and others and awaken us to God’s presence in the world around us. They can be practiced individually and in community. There are so many ways to connect with our community. We not only come together for worship, but we look for ways to build relationships along our discipleship journey.

The fruit of a life of prayer and spiritual practice is compassionate action and a widened heart. We may not always “feel God” in the ways we are expecting, but we are invited to trust that God is present in whatever arises as we engage in spiritual practices.

Even restlessness, resistance, or boredom can be ways the Holy Spirit is trying to speak to us. Joy, gratitude, and love are also powerful signals of the Holy Spirit’s presence.

Here are a few tips to help you stay spiritually fit throughout the week:

Daily Prayer
Setting aside a few minutes each day for prayer can help you stay connected to your spiritual beliefs. This daily practice can be a powerful way to center yourself and find peace amid the chaos.

Consider Intercessory prayer, a special type of prayer where an individual prays on behalf of others. It involves seeking God's intervention and help for the needs of others.

Reading Spiritual Texts
Incorporating daily or weekly readings from spiritual or inspirational texts can provide guidance and keep your mind focused on your spiritual path. This could be scripture, literature, or even daily devotionals.

Reflective Journaling
Take time to reflect on your thoughts and experiences through journaling. Writing about your spiritual journey can help you process your feelings, recognize growth, and set intentions for the future.

Mindfulness and Presence
Practice being present in your daily activities. Whether it’s through mindful breathing, paying attention to your surroundings, or simply being present in conversations, mindfulness can help you stay connected to your spiritual self.

Remember, spiritual fitness is a journey, not a destination. By incorporating consistent practices into your daily life, you can nurture and strengthen your spiritual well-being beyond just one hour a week on Sunday morning.

Would you like to explore Spiritual Practice further?

Visit the Spiritual Practices Resource page on our this website.

Spiritual Practices page

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Does prayer really change things?

8/1/2024

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Elder Jim Fairchild

Many people who are going through difficult times, be it illness, grief, a faith crisis, financial stress, a relationship problem or maybe a broken heart, finding the strength to begin the healing process may seem like too much for one person to bear. Many are isolated or alone even in a group setting because they don’t know who or how to ask for help.

“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 NRSV

Prayer can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. By engaging in prayer, individuals may experience a sense of inner peace, clarity, and connection to something greater than themselves. This can lead to positive changes in attitudes, behaviors, and relationships. (Check out Community of Christ Spiritual Practice resources for additional information.)

Prayer has the potential to shift one's mindset and perspective on challenging situations. It can provide comfort, hope, and strength during difficult times, enabling individuals to cope with adversity and find solutions to problems they may be facing.

“The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective”.
James 5:15-16 NRSV

Prayer often occurs within a community or religious group, such as our Topeka Congregation prayer ministry, offering a sense of unity and support. Through collective prayer, individuals can come together to share intentions, concerns, and celebrations, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity.

For many individuals, prayer is an expression of their faith and belief in a higher power. The act of prayer can deepen one’s spiritual connection and trust in divine guidance, leading to a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

While the effectiveness of prayer in changing external circumstances may be subjective and complex, its impact on inner growth, resilience, and community support cannot be underestimated. Ultimately, whether prayer truly changes things may depend on one’s beliefs, intentions, and experiences.

“So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
Mark 12:23 NRSV

The Topeka Community of Christ congregation believes in the power of prayer and we would like to pray for you during your time of need. For many years we have been providing a Prayer Ministry for members and friends of our congregation. This ministry is also available online.

Intercessory prayer is a special type of prayer where an individual prays on behalf of others. It involves seeking God's intervention and help for the needs of others. Intercessory prayer is an act of love and compassion where one person selflessly dedicates their time and energy to pray for the well-being of others. It is a powerful tool that has been used for centuries to help people in times of need.

So, does prayer really change things?
We think that it does and would like to pray for you in your time of need. Click the button below to access our Online Prayer Ministry.

Request for Prayers

You do not need to be a member of the Topeka Community Christ congregation to utilize our Online Prayer Ministry.

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Are you responding to Christ’s call to Mission?

Christ's call to put our lives into divine mission is a powerful reminder of our purpose as believers. Responding to this call requires a deep commitment to living a life that is centered on compassion, justice, and peacemaking.

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This Blog is authored by the Topeka Community of Christ Ministry Team to share stories about Discipleship in Action.

The opinions expressed on this Blog are those of the writer and not Community of Christ.

No God No Peace, Know God Know Peace

Celebrating the Epiphany: Revelations and Our Discipleship Journey

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Are you Spiritually Fit?

Does prayer really change things?

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