During a time of great spiritual darkness due to wanton violence over religious ideals, Teressa of Avila did not succumb to the fear of death but instead called men and women to a life of peace and prayer. In the 1500’s, the Spanish Empire was becoming the richest nation in Europe. Sending ships of conquerors to the Americas, the Spanish found gold and silver in abundance as well as slaves. The violence these Conquistadors did to the inhabitants of the new world is unimaginable. But, at the same time, with the same veracity and unhindered bloodshed, the nations of Europe were at war with one another over protestant and catholic views of faith and governance. Nation fought nation for dominance and determination in being either a Catholic or Protestant kingdom. In the midst of such a tumultuous time, Teressa called her fellow Christians to a life of spiritual renewal, seeking to be transformed each day into the likeness of Christ.
Here is an excerpt from her piece, “Prayer, as Faith and Fervor for God Alone.” In this, you can see Teressa’s devotion to the one true King as she beckons others to follow her in complete surrender and allegiance to this King in the midst of such dark times.
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It is quite clear that when a master teaches anything, he developed a love for his pupils so that what he teaches will inspire and delight the pupil. It is helpful also to pay attention to what is being taught. Our Heavenly Father acts toward us in a similar way.
Take notice, then, of the fears that men may represent to you, or of the dangers they put before you. Consider that these are not times when we should believe everybody, but only those who you see are walking conformable with the life of Christ.
Mental and vocal prayer belong together. If some tell you that you can recite the Lord’s Prayer and yet still think of the world, here I am sadly silent. For if you would conduct yourself before so great a Lord, it is proper to realize Whom you are addressing- if you would pay Him proper respect. For how can you address a king, and call him “your majesty,” or know the etiquette when addressing a noble, unless you are acquainted with his rank and dignity.
What, then, is this? O my Sovereign! How can it be tolerated? For you are my God, the Eternal King, Whose Kingdom is not a borrowed one! So I must meditate about the greatness of God, even as I pray silently to Him.
Announcements:
Sunday School Starts this Sunday at 9:45am
Children’s Church will also begin again this Sunday.
We are looking for people to help by joining in the rotation for children’s church
If you are interested, please reach out to Pastor Steven.
This Sunday is Potluck! Bring a dish and an appetite.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!! Sept. 20th starting at 7pm we will be hosting a FREE Concert. Jess Ray and Taylor Leonhardt are amazing musicians. Shout out to Leslie Fields for making this all possible. (See Flyer Below for more details.)
Link to the CBC Calendar
Church Weekly Schedule
Sunday School at 9:45am
Sunday worship at 11am
Children’s Church after Worship Singing (during the sermon)
Wednesday Prayer Posse 12pm
Trail Life each Sunday from 2-3pm
Pastor Steven’s Office Hours 8-4 Mon-Thursday
I have an open sign (if it is on, I am here)
If I am not in the office at these times, I am meeting with someone
Call or text me 972-921-2516
Email steven@kodiakcbc.org
