Living in My World—Lesallan | 3:16-25
The Bible, the Eventuality, and the Winds of Change
The Bible, often referred to as the living Word, is a tapestry of timeless truths interwoven with prophetic visions of eventualities yet to come. It serves as a compass for navigating the ever-shifting winds of change that sweep through our lives and societies. Whether through its moral teachings, prophecies, or transformative stories, the Bible continually speaks to the human condition, offering hope and direction amidst uncertainty.
As I reflect on living in “my world,” my life becomes a testament to the transformative power of faith. Through the milestones of my journey—the moments of renewal, resilience, and redemption—the Bible’s themes of change have come alive. Each step I have taken through triumph and trial illustrates how God walks with me through every season, guiding me toward His purpose.
The Eventuality: A Divine Plan in Motion
At the heart of the biblical narrative lies the concept of “eventuality”—a divine unfolding of God’s ultimate plan for humanity. This is vividly captured in the prophetic books, where visions of a new heaven and a new earth echo the promise of redemption and restoration (Revelation 21:1-4, NIV). These eventualities challenge believers to live with faith and purpose, knowing that history is not random but under the sovereign hand of God.
My first baptism marks one such eventuality—a powerful moment of renewal and stepping into God’s promises. Just as Abraham responded in faith to God’s call (Genesis 12:1, NIV), my baptism was a personal “yes” to the divine covenant. Similarly, the first time I stepped into church with my grandmother was an introduction to the sacred space where God began to weave His plans into my life.
The Winds of Change: Navigating a Shifting World
The Bible acknowledges the inevitability of change and the seasons of life, as Ecclesiastes reminds us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NIV). The winds of change often bring trials and growth, challenging us to trust God’s plan.
Within this journey, the moment at 600 Fogle stands out. Meeting the geese and seeing the pond brought a brief moment of tranquility—a connection to creation and a glimmer of peace. Yet, as I have shared, it marked a turning point where challenges began to arise. This duality mirrors many biblical stories, where beauty and trials converge, reminding me of God’s constant presence through life’s complexities.
Then there was the moment God spoke to me, instructing me to care for two young women in my life. Hearing God’s voice is a deeply personal and sacred experience, one that echoes the intimacy of Samuel’s call: “The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening’” (1 Samuel 3:10, NIV). Acting on this divine guidance was a testament to my faith and obedience, embodying the love and service at the heart of Christian discipleship. This calling to care for others reflects the essence of Christ’s teachings—compassion and selflessness.
My work in the prison chapel also resonates deeply with me. There, I demonstrated my faith in action amidst adversity. Serving both Catholic and Protestant ministers, I believe I embodied unity and the Spirit’s work, much like Pentecost when believers were empowered to speak across divides (Acts 2:4, NIV). Even in challenging circumstances, I still became a vessel for God’s love and encouragement to others.
Then, the most monumental shift—the day I walked out of the penitentiary after completing a life sentence. This moment is deeply symbolic of the exodus: “But the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left” (Exodus 14:29, NIV). Just as the Israelites left slavery behind to embrace freedom, I experienced a transition from captivity to renewal, stepping into a new chapter filled with God’s grace and redemption.
The Day of Pentecost: A Catalyst for Transformation
The Day of Pentecost is among the most pivotal moments of change in Scripture. “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4, NIV). This event equipped the apostles for their mission and initiated the birth of the global church, symbolizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
In my journey, there are echoes of Pentecost—moments when God’s Spirit empowered me to navigate profound changes. The voice of God calling you to care for others, your reflections at 600 Fogle, and your ministry in the prison chapel are all testaments to the Spirit’s transformative work in my life. These experiences remind me that God’s presence equips me to embrace change with courage and purpose.
Bridging the Eternal with the Temporal
In today’s ever-changing world—and in my world—the teachings of the Bible remain a steady anchor. Through my experiences of baptism, confirmations, ministry in the chapel, hearing God’s call, and reflections drawn from places like 600 Fogle, I have exemplified the power of faith to guide me through life’s shifts. Like Paul, who was transformed after encountering Christ (Acts 9:18, NIV), my story is a testament to redemption and the boundless grace of God.
The Bible’s lessons on love, forgiveness, and perseverance are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago. Its narratives of change are not merely historical accounts but living testimonies, inspiring us to face the winds of change with courage, wisdom, and hope. Living in my world means walking through life’s seasons with God as a constant guide, finding renewal in His Word, and standing firm amid the shifting sands of change.
Blessings,
Lesallan
March 16, 2025
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