1928 Moneta Road, Bedford VA

Each Sunday, as I step forward on this incredible journey, I feel the presence of God drawing nearer.

Today, Father’s Day, was no exception, as I had the great honor and joy to virtually join Bedford Christian Church, marking my 111th church visit.

Even though I wasn’t physically present, the warmth, love, and compassion flowing through this beautiful congregation reached out and touched my heart profoundly.

Bedford Christian Church has deep roots in Bedford, Virginia, a congregation with a rich history of faithfulness, resilience, and love. Their story resonates deeply… once located in the bustling heart of the town, they intentionally replanted themselves atop a peaceful hill, expanding their embrace to welcome all who seek spiritual nourishment and belonging. They say: “Whether you’re sporting your Sunday best, or you’ve just rolled out of bed, we invite you just as you are.”

What a beautiful reminder of how Jesus Himself welcomes us, unconditionally and lovingly.

Today, from the quiet comfort of my home, I sensed their authentic community as they opened the service sharing laughter with charming dad jokes, sang heartfelt hymns together, and lovingly invited everyone to partake in communion. This was a church clearly marked by joy, acceptance, and deep spiritual kinship. Even from a distance, I felt fully included and warmly embraced.

The message from Senior Minister Dr. David Walton was beautiful, sinking into my spirit, drawn from John 16:12-15.

On this Trinity Sunday, Dr. Walton illuminated the moments before Jesus ascension, emphasizing how Jesus had more to say to His disciples, yet knew their hearts weren’t ready to bear it all.

It made me reflect, how often have I struggled, wishing Jesus had spelled out every detail, every controversial question we grapple with today?

Yet, perhaps, the Pastor suggested, even if Jesus had spoken more explicitly, would it have changed our human tendency to misunderstand or complicate His simple message?

Dr. Walton powerfully shifted our perspective, urging us not merely to ask the popular question, “What Would Jesus Do?” but rather, “What Did Jesus Do?”

Christ showed us precisely how to live through His own radical example of unconditional, transformative love.

He didn’t just tell us, He demonstrated it. Jesus commanded us clearly: “Love one another,” without judgment, without prejudice, without conditions. He welcomed the outcasts, embraced the broken, and forgave freely, challenging the religious and societal norms.

This stirred my heart deeply, are we truly living in imitation of Jesus?

Do our lives reflect His radical compassion, His selfless forgiveness, His unconditional embrace?

Dr. Walton’s words reverberated in my heart as a convicting and powerful reminder of the heart of Christianity, radical love.

On this spiritual journey, I’ve been personally walking through seasons of profound healing, forgiveness, and renewal.

Through every church, every encounter, God is teaching me more about what love really means.

Today’s message confirmed yet again: our faith is not about strict rules or traditions, not about superficial righteousness or judgmental attitudes. Rather, it is about demonstrating Jesus’ love vividly, courageously, and unreservedly.

It’s about choosing grace over condemnation, mercy over judgment, and love over fear… every single day.

I am overwhelmingly grateful for how far God has brought me, and how each church visit brings deeper insight, encouragement, and transformation into my life.

Bedford Christian Church’s heartfelt hospitality and meaningful message profoundly impacted me today, reminding me that our faith is most powerfully demonstrated in how we love others, especially the least lovable, just as Christ did.

I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to experience the warmth and authentic love found at Bedford Christian Church. My prayer is that their example inspires us all to love radically, fully, and without reservation, just as Jesus loved us first.

May we strive daily to walk closely in His footsteps, asking ourselves continually, “What did Jesus do?”, and then, with all humility and courage, go and do likewise.

I can’t wait to see where the Holy Spirit leads me next on this beautiful journey of faith, love, and healing. God is faithful, and I praise Him for this life.