It’s tempting to measure our spiritual life by external standards like church attendance, Bible reading, avoiding major sins, and then feel good about the comparison. But Jesus dismantles this scorecard approach by revealing that the true gauge lies much deeper. He points out that we’re guilty of murder if we harbor anger towards someone, and that lust is equivalent to adultery. This means no one can achieve the perfection God requires, but the good news is that Christ has already fulfilled every requirement and offers to credit His flawless record to us! Stop trying to improve your religious resume and simply receive the righteousness that only He can provide.

What Kind of Baggage Are You Passing Down?
The power that parents have to shape and influence their children for a lifetime is astounding. While our parents pass down many good things to us, they also pass down a certain amount of baggage, which, if not dealt with, will be carried through our entire life and passed on to our children. Are there any hurts or destructive patterns you are still carrying through life? Jesus invites you to lay that baggage down at the cross and find the strength to be the agent of change for your family.



