Faith
My freedom only comes when I completely surrender with everything I am to God and a love that never fails…
In the spirit of 4th of July, the shout of independence reigns free throughout the United States. The idea of freedom coincides with the idea of bondage. What things tie me down and break me? How many times do the things of this world subjugate my demise? When will the curtains of sin stop clothing my life? I don’t want to be a prisoner to the law of sin. I find hope, power, and liberation to overcome sin only through Jesus Christ. I am not bound to this world and appreciate the place the Holy Spirit has in my life and the promise of both present and future blessing God has for me as His child.
In Romans 8 Paul outlines how in Christ, there is freedom for those who walk in accordance to the Holy Spirit. It is because of the blood split from Christ that the consequence of ours sins does not condemn our death. Rather, for those who have the Holy Spirit dwelling within, we are led to be heirs with Christ.
Our future glory resides in our sufferings. Against the will of sin we remain patient with faith for the revealing and “glorious freedom from death and decay,” Romans 8:22. There is freedom when the Holy Spirit intercedes for us as we pray. There is freedom for those who love God and surrender to His purpose. There is freedom in all things working together for God. And there is freedom for those God elects to conquer over all things.
We recently had Michael Franzese speak at Crossraods and one of the most influential things he said while being interviewed by Pastor Chuck was that he always accepted Jesus Christ, but it was only when he surrendered himself to the will of God was he finally freed.
Dear God,
Your love brings me to my knees and I won’t stop believing that you alone bring the lost back home, Your cause is good, You are the light, and Your love is my freedom.
I love you.
Here's a clip from Michael Franzese, former mob boss for the Colombo crime family in New York, now a servant of God.
Food
Nutella Ravioli!!!
I actually made this as well for my friend Mayra's engagement party. Perfect dessert I must say. Adopted from my favorite Giada De Laurentiis.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/chocolate-hazelnut-ravioli-recipe/index.html
I added strawberries... nice addition I must say... ENJOY!!!
Furry Animals
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE keep your animals hydrated and cool!!!! So important when California gets hot like this... Don't make the foolish mistake of thinking your animals are okay outside. If they are, make sure you have more than enough water and shade available for them. Or be nice to your pets who love and adore you and let them hang inside. If it's hot for you, its hotter for them. Hose them down if you have to or take them swimming. And if your dog is just plain weird and enjoys falling asleep in the spa, God bless their little hearts...
Dexter passed out in the spa... Laura provided him with a pillow
Raft and life vest... Safety first...
Happy 4th of July everyone!!!
