The Gospel In Common Things

By Gladys Ogoti

Watch and be Ready.

"Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame." Revelation 16:15

On the morning of the wedding day, as people were busy preparing food for the bridegroom's party [in my culture, the bridegroom goes to the bride's family to take her, and they proceed to church], I was also getting ready for the groom. Then I realized I had no crown to put on my head. Everyone blamed me for not being careful. Others wanted to go buy the crown that very morning. I didn't even have a phone to call my fiancé, so he would come with one. I was disappointed and irritable on the day I was supposed to be happiest...

Jesus used common things to teach people during His ministry on earth. Using His exapmple, I try to find some spiritual lessons in my day to day life. This 62-page book is based on reflections on my daily life and interaction with people. I hope you find it inspiring in your day to day life as well as in your spiritual walk with Christ. 

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gladys Ogoti
• Release date: Feb 21, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224967056

Book preview

Day 1.

A VOLLEYBALL GAME

Ephesians 6:10-18

High school girls entered the field, each team wanting to win. I sat there waiting for my daughter as she supported the team. At first, I thought of leaving the gymnasium to come later for her. Watching the girls play, I was directed to the great controversy between good and evil. I watched the players, referees, linesmen, and everybody involved. It is incredible how the Lord revealed the gospel to me. Let me explain.

There was this weak girl. She hardly did anything right. Yet, her teammates were supportive; they rallied behind her, telling her it was ok. Then I thought, isn't this what Christianity is all about? How nice could it be if stronger Christians rallied behind the weaker in faith? One girl was so talented, energetic, and elegant. She gave her all to the game. Her spikes were so hard that none was able to receive the ball. I found myself praying, O Lord, please protect me from the spikes of the devil. Do not allow him to throw his darts at me. Give me strength to bear the ones that come my way!

I was thrilled by the action of one of the linesmen. He held the red flag and was ready as if to play. Looking at him, he seemed to say, If only I had to play... Then, I realized that the angels of the Lord are always ready to act at God's command. If only we let them, we could win many battles. I realized I lose many fighting when I don't let God take over. As we learn to surrender to God, the armies of God take over where we cannot by our own strength. I looked again at the linesman. He waved his red flag, meaning the ball was outside the playing zone. Then I prayed, Lord, show me the red areas of my life and help me let go and let God.

As the girls played, I supported both teams. I wanted to be there for all of them. Even though I felt inclined to help my daughter's team, I occasionally cheered the opponents. Suddenly, I remembered the Lord's warning to the Laodicean church in the book of revelation. I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! I quickly uttered a prayer and said, Lord, I am glad you have not spit me out your mouth. May your Spirit lead me and make me hot unto salvation. A simple match became a sweet sermon and prayer experience.

Here are a few more lessons we can learn from this game

The players in a volleyball game must be prepared with the right gear, skills, and mindset before the match. This includes physical training, mental preparation, and teamwork. Similarly, we are asked to put on the whole armor of God as we prepare ourselves for the spiritual battles we may face.

Each player has a role to play in the team. Similarly, every piece of the armor of faith has a specific function. Therefore, we need all of them.

In volleyball, players face challenges, setbacks, and formidable opponents. On the other hand, the armor of God symbolizes protection and resilience against spiritual battles. Hence, staying resilient and solid and not giving up on adversity is essential.

Having a strategy is crucial in the volleyball game. Understanding the opponent, adapting tactics, and making quick decisions are vital aspects of the game. Likewise, knowing the opponent, the devil, and his tactics in the spiritual realm is crucial as we fight the spiritual battle. Our strategy is to depend on Christ, who is already victorious, for we fight not against the flesh.

Maintaining faith and keeping a positive mindset are essential in a volleyball game. The girls did not give up even when the team was seemingly losing. Believing in yourself and staying connected with Christ can make a significant difference in your life. Keep the faith

Day 2

Infectious Generosity: Part 1

Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. With the same measure you use, it will be measured back to you ." Luke 6:38

I was in my bedroom when I heard someone knock on the door. My daughter opened the door. There, standing with a tomato in his hand, was my neighbor. They had just moved into the apartment. He was saying to my daughter, "is your father in? My wife was given two tomatoes from her place of work, and I thought of sharing one with him! As the man spoke, my heart was torn with shame. I had not tried to get to know this young family; I had many tomatoes and vegetables in my garden, and I had not wanted to share them! So, I went to the door and offered to give him more tomatoes from our garden. He had two and offered us one,  but he got more with some vegetables.

As I reflected upon this, I was reminded of the golden rule in Matthew 7:12: "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets." Here are other lessons we can learn from this simple act of generosity:

The act of giving without expecting anything in return reflects the principle of generosity emphasized