As Passover approaches once again, we find ourselves in a world marked by increasing turmoil. Wars rage across multiple regions, earthquakes have shaken communities around the globe, and many people of faith see these as the “birth pains” described in scripture—signs that larger changes are coming. For believers awaiting the rapture—that promised moment when Christ will suddenly gather His faithful to Himself—these signs take on special significance. With global events aligning with prophetic descriptions, some wonder if this might be the last Passover we’ll observe before the rapture occurs, dramatically changing our current world order.
Rather than dwelling in fear, however, this season calls us to reflect deeply on the transformative work of Jesus and what it means for us today. His sacrifice fundamentally changed humanity’s relationship with sin, providing us with a new starting point and a fresh framework for understanding our spiritual journey.
The traditional understanding of sin focuses heavily on its consequences—the “wages of sin is death,” as scripture teaches. Yet Jesus’ work on the cross was specifically designed to remove this from the equation. He did the heavy lifting, taking on the burden that we could never carry ourselves, and in doing so, created a pathway forward that isn’t dominated by fear of punishment.
This doesn’t mean sin no longer matters. Rather, it invites us to view sin through a different lens. Instead of seeing sin primarily as a moral failure deserving punishment, we can recognize it as a signal—an indicator that something is misaligned in our lives. When we experience the pull toward actions or thoughts that separate us from our highest purpose, it’s an opportunity to investigate what deeper needs or wounds might be at play.
With the punishment aspect addressed through grace, we’re free to ask better questions: What is this particular behavior or thought pattern signaling? What underlying wound or unmet need might be driving it? How can I address the root cause rather than just the symptom? This investigative approach transforms sin from something to fear into something that informs. It becomes less about guilt and more about growth—a signpost pointing toward areas of our lives that need healing and integration.
This shift in perspective invites us to engage with a more holistic approach to spiritual growth. If sin points to areas needing attention, then our response should be comprehensive, addressing not just behaviors but the whole person. Jesus didn’t just forgive sin; He came that we “might have life, and have it more abundantly.” This abundance requires intentional cultivation in multiple dimensions of our being. The journey toward wholeness begins with spiritual connection, which serves as the foundation for all other healing.
Being “full in the Spirit” isn’t just a religious phrase—it’s about cultivating a continuous connection with the divine presence. This involves prayer, meditation on scripture, worship, and living with an awareness of God’s presence in daily life. When we’re spiritually connected, we naturally become more resistant to harmful patterns.
Many destructive behaviors stem from unhealed emotional wounds. These might originate in childhood, relationships, or traumatic experiences. The spiritual journey must include honest confrontation with these injuries, bringing them into the light where they can be addressed with compassion and wisdom. This often requires both divine and human support—prayer alongside counseling, community alongside personal reflection.
Our thought patterns dramatically impact our actions and feelings. Working on mental wellness means developing awareness of negative thought cycles, practicing gratitude, learning to redirect rumination, and building a thought life that aligns with truth and love. Scripture speaks of “renewing the mind”—an active process of transformation that changes how we perceive and respond to life.
In addressing the physical aspect of our nature, many fall into one of two opposing errors. One form of carnality involves uncritically embracing every physical desire and impulse. This perspective treats the body’s wants as authoritative, leading to various forms of excess and addiction. While the physical world is good and created by God, not every desire serves our ultimate wellbeing or purpose.
The opposite error involves viewing anything physical with suspicion or outright hostility. This perspective sees the body as inherently problematic rather than as a divine gift. This can lead to harmful asceticism, neglect of legitimate needs, and a disembodied spirituality disconnected from the realities of human existence.
The way forward involves neither indulgence nor rejection, but integration. We are spiritual beings having a physical experience, with both aspects designed by God to work in harmony. This means honoring the body as a temple while recognizing that its desires require discernment. It means embracing joy, pleasure, and the good gifts of creation while maintaining awareness of our higher purpose.
Jesus’ work freed us from the punishment equation so we could focus on becoming whole. In uncertain times, this work of integration—spiritual, emotional, and mental—offers not just personal healing but a witness to a world desperately in need of wholeness.
Whether or not more Passovers lie ahead, this one offers us the chance to embrace a faith that moves beyond fear of sin’s wages and toward the joy of becoming fully alive—spirit, soul, and body united in purpose and peace.
