Breaking the Chains of Legalism

Not long after, I spent time with another Spirit-filled community—this time in Houston, Texas. Their church was one of the first Episcopal congregations in America to encounter the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Like the Book of Acts, they shared all things in common, living together in community.

But there was a difference.

Instead of wearing the robe of righteousness, they clothed themselves with legalism. They knew the truth but wielded it like a club. I watched them use it to control, manipulate, and condemn. Sometimes I felt the blows myself. It was truth—but without love, it became harsh, suffocating, and demeaning.

Our Father wants something better. He invites us to be like John, who leaned on Jesus’ chest and listened to His heartbeat, syncing his own with the rhythm of divine love. Legalism builds fences around God, but God doesn’t need our protection. He sent His Son to walk among us and reveal His heart. His primary ministry was love—because God is love.

As we hold up the mirror of His love and truth, the Holy Spirit will reveal where our mountains of pride, fear, or control need to melt like wax.

And so I pray:

Lord God, may we each encounter Your love in the deepest, most profound way, just as John did when he laid his head upon Your chest. Move and breathe in us. Let Your fire burn through us, expressing a deeper compassion and tenderness. Remind us that it is Your kindness that leads to repentance.

Let the spirit of repentance go deep within us, bearing the fruit of true transformation.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.