One of the hardest mysteries of the faith to grasp is that we live in two worlds. Scripture tells us we are "...in the world, but not of the world." We are at the same time citizens of this crazy, twirling globe called earth and citizens of the Kingdom of God. And Jesus clearly said in John 18:36 when he was brought before Pilate, "My kingdom is not of this world."

Furthermore, the Apostle Paul writes, "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Eph. 6:12

"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds." 2Cor. 10:3-4

Whew. It's difficult to live and do battle in two different world sometimes. My friend, Chuck, used to say the answer is simple: "Where do you get your mail?"

Chuck and I both came from the Midwest. As you know, many people up there in the north lands temporarily relocate when it gets cold & blustery and they find themselves in Arizona or Florida or Texas for a few weeks visiting relatives or renting a condo. They may even own property in the south.

They have fun, soak up some sun, play golf and make new friends; but if you ask any of them where they are from they'd answer without hesitation that their home is in Minnesota or Wisconsin or Michigan. They may be temporarily situated in the south, but their heart, thier identity, and their roots are in the Midwest. THAT is their home. THAT is their permanent address. And although the mail might be forwarded for a short time to somewhere in the south, THAT is where their permanent mailbox stands!

I've had to remind myself lately about where I get my mail.

When push comes to shove and I face the battles of life, I either live out of my earthly wisdom or I turn to the truth from my Heavenly Father. I follow His Facebook page. I check His messages. I get His emails and I answer His phone calls. I look at His pop ups.

Get my point here? The fight is to listen; to listen through the static interference of life. To fight through the temptation to read and listen to other things that are not helpful or fruitful. The fight is to ignore the other "voices" in my head and simply listen for the one voice that speaks life and leans into the promises of Christ.

May it be a good reminder for all of us.

A blessed week to you,

Greg

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Saturday, February 4: The Screwtape Letters at Mesa Arts Center Author and theologian C.S. Lewis' brilliant novel reveals spiritual warfare from a demon's point of view. This stage version brings his novel to life; entertaining and definitely insightful, you'll see yourself in more ways than you know. Meet at 5:00 PM to carpool as a group from the Park & Ride, southwest corner of I-17 and Bell. We will carpool to Mesa where we can go and have dinner in small groups, depending on where you want to go. There are several restaurants to choose from, so all price-ranges and tastes can be accommodated. The play starts at 8:00 PM. Call Elly at 623-297-1110 for questions.

Monday, February 6:  Peace Lutheran Church
We will suspend the video series by Beth Moore for this week and Greg will bring reflections on the "Journey to Healing" Retreat that he and Jeane attended last week. No dinner tonight, but bring a snack to share if you wish. Class starts at 7:15 PM.

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If you are looking for a great way to spend Valentine's Day, come down to the Royal Palms Resort at East Camelback & 52nd Street at 7:00 PM. Bethany has reserved 30 seats around tables in the outdoor courtyard. You buy a drink and whatever food you want (dinner or appetizers) and listen to great music (by Mark Hiiva and Stephanie King!) in the beautiful courtyard of this historic landmark hotel.

Beginning February 28: Healing From Loss: Restoring Your Life
A new grief recovery workshop is beginning the end of this month. If you know of someone who can benefit from this 12-week, intensive workshop, be sure to tell them about it. The workshop meets every Tuesday night. Call Greg if you'd like more information or if you wish to sign up: 602-622-1488.