Tag: jesus

Life Is…

On By Jon ONeilLeave a comment

Finish this sentence: Life is…

Before I reveal how I completed that sentence, let’s take a moment to reflect. Bob Marley once said, “Life without music, I can’t cope.” For him, life was musical—something to be felt deeply, rhythmically, and soulfully.

Maybe you’ve heard or even lived by some of these perspectives:

  • Life is a pain.
  • Life is an adventure.
  • Life is a test.
  • Life is a game.
  • Life is worthwhile.
  • Life is a blessing.
  • Life is not worth living.
  • Life is worth living.
  • Life is worthless.

Each of these reflects the heart and the mindset of the one speaking. They speak to where someone is mentally, emotionally, or spiritually at a given moment. And let’s be honest—sometimes we’ve felt all of them in the same week!

But here’s my definition:

Life is a blessing.

Yes, it can feel like a test on Monday, a game on Tuesday, and a rollercoaster by Wednesday. But even in the chaos, I’ve learned that life is either preparing me, teaching me, or rewarding me. Every challenge becomes a classroom. Every joy, a celebration. Every detour, a divine rerouting. And every silence, a setup for something greater.

Seeing life as a blessing doesn’t mean we ignore pain or pretend trials don’t exist. It means we choose to believe that something good can come out of everything—even the mess.

So when life feels like a test, I remember it’s a blessing in disguise.
When it feels like a game, I’m learning strategy, patience, and how to bounce back.
When it feels like an adventure, I lean in and trust the Guide.

Life is a blessing because it constantly invites us to grow, reflect, and give thanks. Not because it’s easy—but because it’s meaningful.

📖 “Give thanks in everything; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (Christian Standard Bible – CSB)

The Power of a Gift

On By Jon ONeilLeave a comment

Today, I want to talk about giving. Christmas is a season filled with lights, laughter, and gifts, but the greatest gift of all came over 2,000 years ago when God gave us His Son, Jesus Christ. Through Him, we receive salvation, grace, and eternal hope—a gift beyond anything we could imagine or deserve.

Let me share a story that echoes this theme of giving. In 1939, a man named Robert L. May—Bob—was going through a tough time. He was a widower, raising his little daughter, Barbara, who was grieving her mother’s loss. Bob didn’t have much to give that Christmas, but he had a gift inside him—a story.

To lift Barbara’s spirits, Bob created Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. What started as a simple, heartfelt gift to his child became something far greater. Rudolph’s story of an outcast finding his place resonated with millions. That small act of love not only blessed his daughter but brought Bob unexpected wealth and joy.

Bob’s story reminds us that giving—whether it’s a story, a prayer, or simply our time—can transform lives. This Christmas, let’s remember the ultimate gift God gave: His Son, who came into this world to redeem us.

John 3:16 sums it up perfectly:

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” (CSB)

As we celebrate, let’s reflect His love by giving of ourselves—our kindness, our resources, and our faith. A simple act of giving, rooted in love, can change the world.

Merry Christmas, and may you carry the joy of Christ in your hearts all year long!

Facing Temptations

On By Jon ONeil1 Comment

Ever notice how, just as you’re making real progress toward your goal, something shiny pops up, waving like it has a neon sign that reads: “Hey! Forget your plan and check this out!” And isn’t it always when your timing couldn’t be worse? That’s where Jesus’ example becomes a lifesaver—showing us that these distractions can be overcome. Sometimes, God allows us to face tempting moments, almost as if to say, “So, are you serious about this?” It’s not always convenient, but it is revealing.

Think about the story of Jesus being led into the wilderness by the Spirit. For 40 days, He fasts, running on zero calories and maximum faith—basically, He’s starving. Enter the devil, who suggests Jesus could just turn some stones into a baguette. It’s the ancient equivalent of an infomercial popping up right when you’re trying to focus. But Jesus counters with Scripture: “Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Deuteronomy 8:3). Translation: Bread is good, but the Word of God? Way more filling.

Next, the devil tries another classic: “If you’re so special, jump off the Temple—God’s angels will catch you!” Now, this is the equivalent of those social media dares you know you shouldn’t do. Jesus replies, “Do not test the Lord your God” (Deuteronomy 6:16). He’s not about to take unnecessary risks for the sake of show.

Finally, the devil offers the world—literal fame, power, wealth, the works—if Jesus will just bow down to him. And Jesus shuts it down faster than a canceled show: “Go away, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only Him’” (Deuteronomy 6:13).

After this, the devil leaves, and angels come to comfort Jesus. This epic showdown serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from trusting God over what’s convenient. It’s proof that even when you’re hangry, lonely, or tempted by the world’s “shiny things,” God’s guidance can keep you on course. And in those weakest moments, we’re reminded of the power of faith and Scripture to help us dodge life’s distractions and stay focused on what truly matters.