Sunday, March 16, 2025
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Reflection on Jesus’s Sacrifice

By
Robert Woonacott
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In a small, quiet room tucked away from the bustling world, I sat alone, bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. The serenity of the moment wrapped around me like a comforting embrace, filling my heart with a profound sense of happiness. My eyes were closed, and my thoughts turned inward, drawn to a sacred place where I communed with our Lord.

As I sat there, I couldn’t help but contemplate the immense sacrifice that Jesus had made for all of humanity. The image of Him on that cross, bearing unimaginable pain and suffering, weighed heavily on my mind. It was a pain endured not for His own sake but for ours. I found myself overwhelmed with a deep sense of shame that we often fail to fully appreciate the magnitude of His sacrifice.

I invited my thoughts to linger on the excruciating physical torment Jesus endured. The brutal beatings, the cruel scourging that ripped the skin from His back and sides, and the torment of salt being thrown onto His already raw flesh—all of it He endured for us. It was a stark reminder of the depths of His love.

People, blinded by ignorance or malice, had spat on Him, hurled dirt and rocks at Him, and jeered at His suffering. Yet, in His infinite compassion, Jesus bore it all for our sake. The image of Him, bloodied and bruised, emerged vividly in my mind, and I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude and sorrow.

The most haunting image, however, was that of the nails being driven into His hands and feet. The sheer agony of that moment, as the crude spikes pierced His flesh, was almost too much to bear in contemplation. Yet, He willingly endured it for our sins. He hung on that cross, every breath a struggle, every movement a torment, and every moment a testament to His love for us. He did it all so that we might have salvation.

As I pondered these painful details of His crucifixion, I couldn’t help but feel tears welling up in my eyes. It was impossible not to be moved by the sheer enormity of His sacrifice. How could we ever repay such a debt? How could we ever fully grasp the depth of His love?

My heart ached with a mixture of gratitude and humility. I knew that I was unworthy of such a gift, yet Jesus had given His life freely for me. It was a love beyond comprehension, a love that called me to surrender myself completely to Him.

With a deep sense of conviction, I whispered a prayer, reaffirming my faith and devotion to Jesus. I gave Him my heart and my life, acknowledging that I was His to do with as He pleased. I placed Him firmly in the driver’s seat of my existence, surrendering control and placing my trust in His divine plan.

Tears of gratitude streamed down my cheeks as I whispered, “Lord, take me and use me according to your will. I give you everything in my life.” In that sacred moment, I felt a profound sense of peace, knowing that I was in the presence of a love that transcended all understanding.

As I sat there, bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, I knew that I was not alone. Jesus was with me, His love surrounding me like a comforting embrace. And in that moment of quiet communion, I felt truly blessed, truly loved, and truly grateful for the sacrifice He had made on that cross. It was a sacrifice that had saved us all, and I knew that I would spend the rest of my days striving to live a life worthy of such a love.

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Overcoming Relationship Challenges

By
Robert Woonacott
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Love is a complex and beautiful emotion that can shape the course of our lives in profound ways. It is a force that can bring two people together, but it is also a journey filled with ups and downs, growth, and the occasional heartache. In my own experience, I have been with Jody for 18 years, and our relationship has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and growth. We got married in 2016, but even after that, it seemed like our relationship was tested by outside forces and a myriad of little issues that slowly snowballed into a potential breakup. Today, we find ourselves on a path to reconciliation, uncertain if our love can withstand the trials it has faced.

Before delving into my personal experiences and insights, I want to clarify that I am not a relationship professional. I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I have learned from my mistakes and experiences in three different relationships. If sharing some of these experiences can help someone out there, then I believe it’s worth discussing.

One of the crucial factors that determine the success of any relationship is compatibility. Some say that opposites attract, but in my experience, this isn’t always the case. Compatibility goes beyond shared hobbies or interests; it encompasses how you envision your future together. Matters like managing finances, attending religious services, having children, and the responsibilities of adulthood play a significant role in compatibility. If two individuals have vastly different lifestyles and future goals, it can become a source of tension and discord in the relationship. For example, if one partner enjoys partying, drinking, and avoiding financial responsibilities while the other values stability and responsibility, it can create a significant rift.

Mental health can also exert a significant influence on a marriage. It shouldn’t be a deciding factor, but sadly, it often is in today’s society. I’ve witnessed marriages crumble due to one partner’s mental or psychological issues, and it’s heartbreaking. In some cases, the unaffected partner may not be equipped to handle the challenges or may fear the financial repercussions of seeking treatment. This fear can lead to divorce as an easier solution, rather than facing the issue head-on and working through it together.

Outside interference is another common challenge in relationships. It often involves a friend who has experienced divorce and tries to persuade their friend that their own spouse is unhappy and suffering abuse, projecting their past experiences onto someone else’s relationship. This kind of interference can poison a relationship quickly, especially in cases of abusive marriages. In such situations, it’s essential for either spouse to distance themselves from these toxic friendships to protect their relationship.

Cheating is a complex and sensitive issue within relationships. It involves a multitude of scenarios, and how one perceives cheating can vary greatly. When suspicions of infidelity arise, individuals often seek advice from friends and family, which can be dangerous. Seeking outside opinions can muddy the waters and complicate the situation further. If you suspect your partner is cheating, it’s crucial to address the issue directly with them rather than relying on external advice. Trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship, and open communication is the key to resolving doubts.

Lastly, family interference can be a significant source of tension within a relationship. If your family does not approve of your partner, it can create a divide between you and your loved ones. While it’s essential to hear your family’s concerns, it’s equally important to take a step back and objectively assess whether there are valid reasons behind their disapproval. Sometimes, family members can see red flags that we may overlook in the haze of love.

Amidst all these challenges, one factor stands out as crucial: the role of family in helping us observe our relationships. Family, especially those who know us well, can often offer valuable insights and advice. However, above all, I believe that seeking guidance from a higher power, in my case, God, is the best way to navigate the complexities of love and relationships. Praying for the right person to enter your life and seeking divine guidance can provide a solid foundation for a lasting and fulfilling relationship.

I have two friends who exemplify different approaches to marriage. One couple has been married since high school and has what I would consider an almost perfect marriage. They raised their child with strong values and a religious upbringing, which I believe contributed to the longevity and success of their relationship. On the other hand, another friend’s marriage has endured without a religious connection. Both couples come from stable family backgrounds, which may have shielded them from the cycle of divorce that often plagues those from broken homes. Studies have shown that individuals from broken homes are more likely to experience divorce themselves.

In the end, when you truly love someone and invest enough in that love, it can overcome even the most formidable obstacles. Love is a journey filled with challenges, and while it may not always be easy, it has the power to transform lives. Whether it’s compatibility, mental health, outside interference, cheating, or family disapproval, love can endure if both partners are willing to work through their issues together. It’s a journey worth embarking on, for love has the potential to conquer all that life throws in its path.

Faith and End Times

By
Robert Woonacott
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As I sit here today, my heart is heavy with the turmoil I see unfolding in the world around me. The cost of living is reaching staggering heights, yet our wages remain stagnant. It’s a difficult time, and in these moments, my thoughts often turn to my faith and the teachings of the Bible.

The sense of urgency I feel is palpable. I believe that the second coming of the Lord is approaching, and my soul aches at the thought of so many who have yet to seek repentance. Despite my eagerness to guide as many as I can to salvation, a part of me fears it might be too late.

Scriptures speak of the end times, of people turning away from faith, believing that the hardships of the world will simply pass. But I cannot share this complacency. My heart is troubled at the thought of the Rapture, the possibility of seeing loved ones left behind to face unimaginable evils, their pride leading them further away from the path of righteousness.

Yet, in my moments of prayer and reflection, I find a different kind of solace. My dreams and visions fill me with an indescribable joy, a certainty that the end of our earthly lives marks the beginning of eternal happiness.

There’s a friend of mine, Pam, who holds a special place in my heart. I’ve known her since she was a baby. She’s one of the most joyous people I know, yet I sense she masks her true feelings behind a facade of busyness and a relentless dedication to others. Her faith and belief in a higher power shine through her, lighting up the lives of those around her. Pam, in her unique way, is a beacon of hope. Some may find her eccentric, but if they only took the time to truly listen to her, they might see the light she brings into this world.

I believe that if more people could see the world through Pam’s eyes or mine, they would understand our vision. I see hope in everyone, and it pains me to see anyone suffer. I often ponder how my life might have been different had I made other choices when I was younger. But then I realize that even a different path would have led to the same ultimate truth.

What lies beyond this life? What new beginnings await us? The answer, to me, seems simple. Believing in Jesus with all our heart, letting Him guide us, listening to His words – this is the key to living in a paradise every day.

Recently, I’ve found myself on a path that I believe the Lord has set for me. Yet, as I walk this path, I’m struck by how many have not heard His word, how many are lost. I cannot imagine a life without this knowledge, without this faith.

Today, I made a difficult choice not to attend Church. My spirit is troubled by the actions and attitudes I’ve observed there. While the church is a place of worship, it also seems to be a place where some lose sight of the true essence of God’s word. It raises a troubling question: are these the same people who might not find their way to heaven? In my heart, I fear that many will only realize the truth when it’s too late when evil has consumed them, and they face an eternity of despair.

However, I refuse to turn my back on anyone. It might be late for some, but there’s always hope for those who sincerely invite the Lord into their hearts. To truly embrace faith, one must believe wholeheartedly, surrendering all doubts and trusting in His guidance. He is the path to paradise, the light in the darkness of our world.

As I reflect on these thoughts, I am reminded that faith is not just about waiting for the end but about living each day with love, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the goodness that awaits us beyond this life.

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Jody: A Love Story

By
Robert Woonacott
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It was New Year’s Eve in the year 1985, and I found myself at my sister Darci’s home, celebrating the arrival of the new year with her and her husband. My wife, Ana, was by my side, and the house was alive with the joy and excitement of the occasion. The night was filled with laughter, music, and the promise of new beginnings.

As the night wore on and the festivities continued, I happened to spot my brother, James, making his way into the gathering with a young girl in tow. She had brown hair that framed her face, dressed in jeans, a pinkish sweater, and white tennis shoes. Her appearance was captivating, with a cute charm that immediately caught my eye. James introduced us, revealing her name to be Jody. I couldn’t help but notice her adorable chin, sun-kissed complexion, and shoulder-length hair that framed her face perfectly. Jody possessed a captivating smile that seemed to light up the room, and in my eyes, she was a very charming young woman. It was evident that my brother was genuinely happy in her presence.

As the night unfolded, I had the opportunity to get to know my brother’s girlfriend a bit better. Meanwhile, Ana was spending time with her family since she was finishing her senior year in high school in her hometown, wanting to graduate with her class, which was a significant milestone for her. James and Jody spent some time chatting with us, and I couldn’t deny the attraction I felt toward Jody.

After their visit, they left, and I assumed it would be the last time I’d have the chance to talk to her. Little did I know that fate had different plans for us, and our paths would cross again, but not for another 17 years.

In the year 2002, I found myself in a Yahoo chat room, navigating the digital landscape of the early internet. I was single at the time, living in Grand Haven, Michigan, and feeling the loneliness that often accompanies solitude. It was during one of these late-night chats that I received a message from someone familiar – Jody. We had somehow stumbled upon each other in the vast world of cyberspace, a chance meeting that felt like destiny.

Jody, now married and living in Saint Ignace, Michigan, and I began exchanging messages and catching up on each other’s lives. Our conversations were a balm to my loneliness, a connection that transcended the physical distance between us. We talked for months, sharing stories, dreams, and secrets, forming a deep bond that felt like a lifeline.

However, as our connection grew stronger, a shadow loomed on the horizon. Jody’s husband, battling cancer, discovered our correspondence and put an end to it. Our conversations abruptly ceased, and I respected their situation, hoping for the best for Jody and her family.

Time passed, and in 2007, I received a heart-wrenching phone call from Jody. Her husband had lost his battle with cancer, leaving her a widow. I was overwhelmed with sympathy and sadness for her loss. It was a moment that drew us closer, reigniting the connection we had once shared.

Before Jody’s call, on a lonely night, I had knelt by my bed and prayed, pouring my heart out to God, expressing my yearning for companionship and understanding. I longed for someone who would accept me for who I was and fill the void in my life. Little did I know that Jody would soon reenter my life, and our paths would intertwine once more.

With her husband gone, Jody expressed her desire to return to Grand Haven, where her family resided. It was a decision we both agreed upon, and on a Friday, I embarked on a journey to pick her up. My daughter, Elizabeth, and her friend joined me on the trip, and we drove north to Saint Ignace to bring Jody back home with us.

As Jody settled into her new life in Grand Haven, I quickly realized that things were not as straightforward as I had initially thought. Jody, a simple and genuine person, had some quirks that made her unique. One incident that stands out was her attempt to warm up mashed potatoes. Instead of using the microwave, she opted to place them in a pan with water, resulting in a humorous culinary mishap. I couldn’t help but chuckle, appreciating her willingness to learn as she went along.

Despite the initial hiccups, I cherished every moment with Jody. Her presence in my life brought a sense of joy and completeness that I had longed for. However, there was a challenge we needed to address – the strained relationship between Jody and my daughter, Elizabeth. In my eagerness to have them spend time together, I had inadvertently created tension between them, a rift that persisted throughout the years.

Jody came from a large and loving family of eight siblings, with her being the youngest. Their age gaps stretched far apart, resulting in unique dynamics within the family. Meeting her family during our Christmas gatherings revealed them to be like any other close-knit family, filled with warmth and laughter. These gatherings soon became a cherished tradition for us.

As I got to know Jody more deeply, I discovered her endearing quirks and qualities. One that stood out was her obsession with her fingers, a manifestation of her OCD. It captured the attention of everyone who met her, yet it was just one facet of her vibrant personality. She had a deep love for playing games, and it became one of her favorite pastimes. Jody possessed an incredible sense of humor, and I found myself falling in love with every aspect of her.

Despite her quirks, Jody’s intelligence shone through in various ways. It saddened me to see how some people underestimated her abilities and doubted her capacity to do everyday tasks. In reality, once she learned something, she excelled at it. I witnessed her outperforming young individuals who initially underestimated her. Jody’s positivity was a driving force in her life, but she needed more confidence and a willingness to disregard the opinions of those who sought to take advantage of her kindness. Surrounding herself with successful individuals would undoubtedly help her reach her full potential.

As the years passed, Jody became an integral part of my life. She was not just my wife; she was my best friend, confidant, and the person who had answered my prayers on that lonely night. Our journey together was filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs, but through it all, we found solace and happiness in each other’s company.

Jody, my beloved wife, continues to be the love of my life. She is a remarkable person with a heart of gold, a spirit that refuses to be broken, and a determination that inspires those fortunate enough to know her. She is my Jody, and I am forever grateful for the serendipitous twists of fate that brought her into my life.

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Strengthening the Path to Salvation

By
Robert Woonacott
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Years ago, during my formative years, I often attended church services with my family. As the sermons came to a close, the pastor would call on the congregation to bow their heads and, in a moment of spiritual vulnerability, invite anyone willing to surrender their hearts to the Lord to raise their hands. Assistance would be provided to those who needed it. I vividly remember moments when I felt the pull towards this sacred commitment, but my shyness and fear of judgment held me back. I worried that if I stepped forward, people would cast their eyes on me, and this fear paralyzed me.

Reflecting on those moments today, I am struck by the countless individuals who, like me, entered the doors of the church seeking God’s word but were either turned away or hindered by their own self-doubt. Perhaps they didn’t know how to ask for guidance, or maybe they feared the judgment of others, just as I did. This contemplation led me to question whether the church was falling short in its mission to embrace and nurture those who seek solace in its teachings.

Not long ago, I had a profound conversation with a young campus pastor. We delved into this matter at length, careful not to criticize but to understand the underlying issues. The pastor candidly admitted that the church lacked a comprehensive system to assist individuals seeking God’s guidance but were unable to take that crucial step forward. His words resonated with me. They recognized the problem but were unsure how to address it, which, in turn, hindered their ability to lead more people toward the path of God’s word.

It’s important to emphasize that this challenge is not unique to a single church; it plagues many congregations. The absence of a well-defined plan to guide and support individuals on their spiritual journey stands as an obstacle to bringing them closer to Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, this predicament seems to disproportionately affect the older generation, although it is not exclusive to them. Even when I was a child, I longed for salvation, but the fear of judgment held me back. The question arises: at what age should children be encouraged to surrender their hearts to the Lord? Jesus extolled the value of blessing little children but didn’t specify an age.

When I witness children under the age of ten embracing salvation and baptism, it fills my heart with joy. The experience is undeniably glorious. However, I can’t help but wonder whether these young souls truly grasp the significance of their decision. Part of me believes that parents play a significant role in influencing these choices. It’s not necessarily wrong, but it does raise questions about the child’s long-term commitment to Christ versus the parents’ desire to ensure their child’s spiritual protection.

Returning to the issue of adults, they often find themselves without a support system. They may have been like the children mentioned earlier, or they may be newcomers searching for salvation and clarity. These individuals yearn for information and guidance to embark on their spiritual journey without confusion.

Initially, when someone finds salvation, the church welcomes them with open arms. They are celebrated, and the congregation rejoices. However, as time goes by, their presence may fade into the background. They become disconnected from the community, drifting further away from their faith. In the beginning, the church provides them with a list of instructions: read the Bible daily, attend church every Sunday, join prayer groups, and so on. But for the newcomers, questions abound.

“What kind of Bible should I read?” They might ask. “Which version is the right one? Should I start from the beginning, or is there a specific place to begin?” These are just a few of the inquiries that newcomers grapple with. When it comes to prayer, they might wonder, “How should I pray? What should I pray for? Do I need to pray aloud for God to hear me, or will He ignore me if I don’t pray correctly?”

The multitude of questions that newcomers face can be overwhelming and intimidating. They seek answers, yet often feel adrift in the vast sea of uncertainty. Despite attending sermons and listening to the pastor’s teachings, rarely do they hear guidance on salvation or receive a step-by-step roadmap. It’s perplexing to think that within a congregation filled with Christians, there is no one designated to volunteer as a “salvation buddy” to provide direction and support to newcomers, making their journey less daunting.

I firmly believe that there are many people who yearn to step forward but are paralyzed by fear. It is our calling, as followers of Christ, to be the “Fishers of Men,” to lead people to Him for salvation. But leading them to salvation is just the beginning. We cannot leave them standing alone, directionless. We must reach out and help them maintain their faith, guiding them on their path to spiritual growth.

A wise friend of mine, Cana, once said, “People perish for the lack of knowledge.” How many individuals have entered through the church’s doors, eager to seek God but unable to do so due to their lack of understanding and guidance?

No matter the circumstances, our mission should always be to assist those in search of the Lord, guiding them toward obeying Jesus’s teachings. It is our responsibility to bring as many people as possible to Christ and educate them, just as we ourselves have been taught. We must acknowledge this issue and take it upon ourselves to be the shepherds who guide people to the Lord’s embrace.

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Faith Like Simon/Peter

By
Robert Woonacott
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In the quiet of the evening, with a gentle breeze rustling through the leaves and the stars twinkling in the night sky, I found myself sitting in contemplation. Tonight, I wanted to dive very deep into the profound connection I felt with Simon/Peter from the Bible. As I delved into the pages of scripture, I realized that Simon’s journey mirrored my own in so many ways, drawing me closer to the essence of faith.

The first encounter with Simon’s story was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure in the vast desert of biblical narratives. Although the Bible provides only glimpses of his life, what I did learn resonated with me on a deeply personal level. Simon, like me, wrestled with his faith in Jesus. He witnessed miracles performed by the Messiah right before his eyes, yet doubts gnawed at his soul.

There were moments when Simon’s heart recognized the divinity of Jesus, but the human struggle of disbelief persisted. I often wondered if he was simply unsure or perhaps overwhelmed by the enormity of the truth before him. One particular incident stood out—the moment when Simon walked on the water. Jesus reached out to him, pulling him up from the depths of doubt and fear. That image of Simon, sinking and then being saved, spoke volumes to me. It was a testament to the frailty of faith, a theme that resonated deeply within my own journey.

Simon, I believed, knew Jesus as our Lord, but his disbelief lingered like a shadow. I empathized with his internal conflict, for I too had questioned, wondered, and struggled to fully comprehend the depth of my faith. Simon’s story taught me that even in the presence of undeniable miracles, doubt could still creep into the human heart.

Before the crucifixion of Jesus, an ominous prophecy was uttered. He told Simon that he would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed in the morning. It happened just as Jesus had foretold. Many may have pondered why Simon, who had walked with the Messiah, would deny Him in His darkest hour. In my heart, I believed it was fear that had gripped Simon’s soul.

The fear of losing his own life, the weight of responsibility, or perhaps the humiliation of the way people spoke of him—all of these factors might have contributed. I saw myself in Simon’s shoes, and I couldn’t help but think that fear, too, would have been my greatest adversary in that moment. It was a harsh reminder that even the most devoted can falter in the face of overwhelming dread.

As I continued to delve into the pages of the Bible, I turned to the books of Peter. Here, I found the words of a man who had transformed himself through the crucible of remorse and redemption. Peter’s love for Christ was palpable in every sentence he wrote. His profound remorse for the denials he had uttered was etched into the very fabric of his being.

Peter’s life took a dramatic turn after the resurrection of Jesus. He spent the remainder of his days dedicated to spreading the gospel, a mission that consumed him. His ultimate fate was a poignant reminder of his unwavering commitment. Peter faced crucifixion, but in a twist of fate, he was hung upside down, a testament to his humility and devotion.

The pain he endured was unimaginable, not just physical agony but the anguish of knowing that he had once denied the very Savior he now proclaimed with fervor. The guilt and the weight of his past actions must have been a constant companion throughout his life. Yet, I believed that Peter had found solace in the arms of our Lord, and his transformation served as a testament to the power of redemption and forgiveness.

In my own spiritual journey, there were moments of doubt and wavering faith. But as I committed myself to our Lord, I began to undergo a transformation of my own. I realized that faith was not a static state but a dynamic force that could evolve and grow stronger over time.

As I reflected on Simon/Peter’s stories, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of kinship. I longed for the day when I could meet Simon in the presence of our Lord. I envisioned our conversation, filled with understanding and shared experiences. I believed that Simon and I would have so much to talk about, our struggles, our doubts, and ultimately, our unwavering faith.

In the stillness of the night, as I gazed up at the starry sky, I felt a profound connection to Simon/Peter. His journeys had been marked by moments of weakness and doubt, but they had emerged as pillars of faith. And in his stories, I found the inspiration to continue my own journey, trusting that my faith would continue to deepen and evolve, just as his had.

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