Represent.

As Bronx Bethany Church of the Nazarene celebrated Pastor Richard's ordination and held his robing ceremony, the testimonies and words shared revealed a stark contrast. The recollections of Richard's early years were marked by comments that described him as, to put it kindly, a challenge to manage. Though Richard knew the ways of the Lord, he had chosen to life a worldly lifestyle. In contrast, the later years were marked by comments that described Richard as a responsible Christian, a man who sought to live a life of holiness and godly character.

What made the difference? For those of us who heard Pastor Richard speak, we learned that the difference was not an issue of "what", but an issue of "who". God Himself stepped in. Our pastor spoke of the moment where, after a night of partying, he heard a clear message from the heart of God: "I did not build you for this." That revelation was followed by years of Richard engaging in prayer, study, and seeking after God. And though he is now an ordained Elder, the journey is not over for him. It's not over for us either! Scripture assures us that, as people of God, we move "from glory to glory" (see Second Corinthians 3:18). Each day, we have opportunity to draw nearer to Christ. 

Our pastor made an important point: Holiness and godly character must be present in us. Holiness is not a lifestyle reserved solely for pastors and leaders; it is for all who claim to belong to Jesus our Lord. If you belong to Christ, then draw near to Him today. Let Him transform you into His image.

Lord God, we kneel before You in awe, reverence, and adoration. We love You and we long to look like You. Draw us closer to You today; make us clear reflections of Your glory. When people see us, let them see a true representation of You.