Spiritual Life

Dr. Harsh placed a most relevant theme for us to ponder in this current world context. The theme is "Filled with Joy." We are living in a time that seems so unclear and has filled many hearts with fear. Paul speaks a relevant word for this season in Romans 15:13:

"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
 
In this theological masterpiece called Romans, the apostle Paul provides a comprehensive understanding of the gospel as the means by which man is placed in right standing with God. As a result of receiving this gospel, Christians have peace accessed through faith (Romans 5:1-2). This peace was made available when the hostility between God and man was removed through the atoning death of Jesus  (Romans 5:8-11).

To receive Christ is to accept peace, and subsequently, experience joy. It's no wonder why Paul would admonish the church at Philippi with the statement, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4)".  Having explained that salvation has been offered to both Jew and Gentile, Paul brings his readers into a pivotal moment of encouragement, acknowledging God as the source of hope, joy, and peace resting on the foundation of faith. READ MORE

This year the theme on campus is “Filled With Joy.” Our desire as a school is for every student, faculty and staff member to experience fullness of joy in their lives this year.  Use these questions as a guide to talk about the joy of Christ with your family.

1. What brings you joy? 
2. How can you keep your eyes on Jesus during difficult/trying times? 
3. How can you invite others into a joyful life? 
4. Dr. Heyward says in his devotional, "To receive Christ is to accept peace, and subsequently, experience joy." How has accepting the peace of Christ led you to experience deeper joy in Jesus? Read Psalm 16:11.