“Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi” Pressing Forward with Christ: Letting Go, Living in Purpose

By Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi

We must move forward, no matter what. The past is the past. We can’t rewrite it. We can’t undo the wrongs or relive the good days. But what we can do is walk forward like Christ, eyes fixed on the road ahead, feet planted in faith, hearts rooted in hope, hands open in love. Whatever has happened behind us, sin, shame, grief, mistakes, we’ve come this far only because of Christ. And we will not go any further without Him. We must press forward, not chasing the world’s approval but seeking God's will and guidance. We know the truth, and what we have attained is not by our strength, but by His grace.

“Our citizenship is in heaven…”— Philippians 3:20 (CSV)

Magic City Promises has a line that hits deep: “Promises don’t mean nothing’ unless you keep ‘em.” That speaks truth to our journey. We make promises to God, to ourselves, to others, but if we don’t live them out, they mean nothing. The promise of heaven, of grace, of healing, of transformation, must be lived daily. We must walk it. We can’t be like those who live only for this world, who chase wealth or recognition.

We know what we have attained; every breakthrough, every healing, every ounce of growth, was not by our strength, but by His grace.

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will change our lowly body to be like His glorious body.”— Philippians 3:20-21 (Catholic Standard Version)

We are not like those who live only for this world. We don’t measure success by status, wealth, or applause. We know our true commonwealth is with Christ in heaven, and that’s where our eyes and hearts belong. So let us walk with intention. Let us act in love. Let us forgive what’s behind us and focus on what lies ahead. Let us refuse to be dragged down by guilt, fear, or worldly distraction.

We are walking toward something holy. And on that journey, Christ is not just our destination; He is our companion, our strength, and our way. Whatever yesterday held, today is a new chance to move forward. With faith. With grace. With purpose. With Christ.

With Peace and Love,

Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi

Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi