From the pastor

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Freedom?

December 2025

True freedom is often misunderstood as the ability to do whatever one desires, whenever one desires, without restraint. Yet this conception of freedom is shallow and ultimately self-defeating. Authentic freedom emerges not from the absence of limits, but from an alignment with objective moral truth. Truth that exists independently of personal preference or social fashion comes from an authentic cloth that is durable. Scripture affirms this when Jesus declares, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Freedom, then, is not the power to invent one’s own reality, but the capacity to live in accordance with what is real. Objective morality provides the structure within which human freedom flourishes, much as the laws of physics allow life to exist rather than hinder it.

The Christian tradition identifies God Himself as the source and ground of all truth. Jesus’ words, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), make clear that truth is not merely a concept but a person. Because God is truth, He is the ultimate reference point for moral, spiritual, and intellectual understanding. The psalmist proclaims, “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever” (Psalm 119:160). Moral law, therefore, is not an arbitrary restriction imposed on humanity, but a revelation of how reality truly works. To live against it is not liberation, but confusion, bondage, and an attempt to deny the grain of the universe.

Philosophers have long recognized that freedom requires orientation toward the good. Aristotle argued that human freedom is perfected through virtue, stating in Nicomachean Ethics that true happiness arises from living in accordance with reason and moral excellence. Similarly, St. Augustine famously wrote, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” Augustine understood that the will is never neutral; it is either ordered toward God or disordered by lesser goods. When the will is rightly ordered and aligned with objective moral truth, it becomes truly free. When it is disordered, it becomes enslaved, even when it believes itself autonomous.

Theologians have echoed this insight by emphasizing that freedom is not license, but liberation from falsehood and sin. Thomas Aquinas explained that “the more one is united to God, the freer one becomes,” because God is the fullness of being and truth itself. Scripture supports this view when Paul writes, “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). This freedom is not chaotic self-expression, but the power to live rightly, love rightly, and know rightly. Sin, by contrast, masquerades as freedom while producing slavery: “Everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin” (John 8:34).

Ultimately, confusion about freedom does not arise because truth is unclear, but because human beings often resist it. Scripture reminds us that “God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33). In scientific inquiry, moral reasoning, and spiritual understanding, God provides coherence and intelligibility because all truth participates in His truth. When people reject objective morality, they do not escape limits; they replace God’s order with their own contradictions. True freedom, therefore, is found not in doing whatever we want, but in knowing the truth about all things and living in harmony with it. Since God is truth, to live in Him is to live freely.

-Pastor Gabe Montez

Has the Church Become Irrelevant in Today's Society?

November 2025

The relevance of the Church has always depended on its connection to the teachings of Jesus and its active presence in the world. This means that we are not hiding, shrinking back, or keeping the peace for peace's sake, but shining. Christ Himself taught that His followers are to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world,” adding, “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:13-14). The Church was never meant to be tucked away or silent; rather, it is called to declare the truth, hold fast to the Word, and embody the character of Christ publicly. Our daily lives, such as how we love, forgive, discipline ourselves, and treat one another, are meant to reflect the teachings and example of Jesus. As James writes, “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). The Church stays relevant when its people live out what Scripture teaches in ways that impact families, communities, and culture.

However, many believers observe that the Church in America has become less and less influential in public life. Social and political debates often suggest that faith should be confined to private spaces, although many early American thinkers spoke openly of God, providence, and biblical moral frameworks while forming the nation’s ideals. While interpretations vary, a commonly held Christian perspective is that the First Amendment’s “separation of church and state” was intended to prevent the government from controlling religion, not to force faith out of public life. Historically, the principle was crafted to protect the Church from state intervention, not to eliminate Christian moral influence from society. When Christians retreat from civic engagement, moral clarity, and public witness, spiritual relevance weakens.

At the same time, American society has seen a decline in family stability—a decline that deeply affects emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Many modern voices downplay the importance of family structure or seek to redefine it, yet Scripture consistently presents the family as a foundational gift from God. God said in the beginning, “It is not good that the man should be alone” (Genesis 2:18), and He created a union meant for mutual support, flourishing, and the raising of children. Today, however, many describe men and women as being in conflict rather than in partnership, resulting in broken relationships, emotional strain, and dissatisfaction. Without God’s design, both sexes wrestle with identity, purpose, and peace.

The Church should be the place where God’s intentions for wholeness are taught clearly and compassionately. Scripture offers hope for restoration, “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33)—and instruction for harmony in relationships, families, and communities. God calls us to live in unity, sacrificial love, and mutual respect: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). When the Church boldly teaches these truths and lives them out, it becomes a source of stability and healing in a fractured culture.

Ultimately, the Church remains relevant when it remains faithful to Scripture, faithful to Christ’s mission, and faithful to living out the gospel openly in a world that sorely needs hope. Jesus commissioned His followers with a public mandate: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). The world may shift, cultures may change, and values may drift, but God’s Word does not. When the Church stands on that truth, it becomes exactly what Christ intended: a shining light, a beacon of hope, and a transformative force in society.

Live and serve the Lord Jesus Christ boldly, 

Pastor Gabe

Election Blues

Many people love to see the weather change as it refreshes the heart for the holidays. Some look forward to the cooler, crisper air and the changes in the leaves. Others hope to start drinking seasonal drinks and wear warmer clothing that has been in their closets. 

November is known for this transition, and many of us look forward to it. Yet, this year (2024), we also have election season, and it has caused tension, to say the least. I would even challenge one to ask, "Would it be safe to say that the most political tension happens in the church?"

Why?

If a church is to be united under Christ, why then do we see just as much, if not more conflict compared to secular society? 

I believe that it is several factors - 

First, local churches have made it a point to avoid politics or even conflict altogether. Any conflict in the church has become an instant stigma that most congregants look to bury quickly and quietly. To maintain what we might see the church provide would cease to exist with conflict. Instead, most twenty-first-century churches are hoping to give relief to their community not in discipleship but in satisfaction. This is an unbiblical approach to worship that excludes Holy Spirit-guided spiritual formation which will include conflict from time to time. 

Second, churches feel that they are to be obedient to Christ by either being inclusive or exclusive. What I mean here is that a congregation may forget that along with biblical obedience comes love and compassion (John 13:34). Therefore, the example of excluding anyone who doesn't vote like they do or belongs to the opposing political party of the majority becomes apparent. 

On the other hand, including everyone who wants to be a "Christian" without commitment to the gospel teachings allows for passivity of the Truth, thus a cancer to the church. We then see sin accepted and reasoned with simply for the sake of "love". This happens often with family members and friends as it hits too close to home. 

Lastly, the statement "Politics has no place in the Church!" is far too common. Ironically, Holy Scripture provides divine guidance for our daily living and yet, how we vote is based on our worldview. Yet, both politics and religion are the two most contested subjects. Christians today have no idea which end is up but know that their allegiance to their party is far too important to back down. How often have Christians fell for the "seperation of church and state" to be the ethical reasoning for our quiet tongue but bold resistance to civility with opposition?

Our constitution is not advocating for muffling anyone's worldview but instead, providing freedom of free speech while it does not hinder your neighbors right as well. So when we vote this November, do it with love and compassion, and with the understanding that Jesus doesnt need us but wants us to trust Him. We should not be in allegiance with a political party but with Jesus Christ! 

-Pastor Gabe Montez


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February Fussing

The pages of the calendar turn faster than we can look up. The holidays have come and gone, and here we are in February with spring coming around the corner. That's ok, we can deal with the changes in how fast time moves. The question is do we have the tools to adequately live with change? 

Some of us were young adults and now middle-aged, some of us were middle-aged and now seniors, and so on. Change is hard but it can be a joyful experience if we are prepared for it. What does that mean,  what does God want me to do with all of it and how can I know God wants me in this place I am in? 

Loving God will help us love others. We can feel valued when we have a relationship with Christ. What does that mean? How can I have a relationship with a being I can't see? Proverbs 3:5 says talks about not falling for worldly healing or what the heart wants. Instead, Psalm 56:3-4 reminds us to be comfortable in the fog that life provides. I suggest that you look these up and see what God says. Then connect with your church very soon. If you don't have one, Bright Light is here for you, or we can point you to one after prayer and discussion. Live with the belief in our One true Savior, trusting in our Father, and faith of a warrior. 

Go ahead and click on the bottom below with any questions on life, the Bible, God, your purpose, or whatever. 

Blessings! 

Pastor Gabe Montez

pastorgabeblc@gmail.com

Handle the Heat

I have to tell you that I have not experienced a hotter summer than the summer of 2023. I can see the earth crack around our property and the A/C begins to push harder than it's ever before. We crack jokes about how hot it is and how we desperately wait for a change in the weather-the slightest will be accepted. 

I was thinking about how we look at the present situation and look forward to what we hope it to be or how it might change for the better. We are struggling with the fatigue brought on by the sun and waiting for the cool air from the indoors or even a breeze. In most situations, it is what we are hoping for rather than what it is. 

Even when we are happily such as newlyweds experiencing the romantic early days of their marriage look forward to wondering where they might be in five years. Or when a newborn comes into their lives and how that child might grow up. 

Is it human nature or is it something that pulls us as if it is a need to be filled? Today I ask you to look at today and enjoy the experience whether it be a challenging one or a joyous one. Today, no matter the circumstance, ask what might be learned from it and glorify God through it. 

Also, in regard to our future- I believe that the hope or need for hope in our future is God himself. We were created with a purpose to glorify Him. That gap we may be feeling in all that we do is His....let Him take that place so that peace comes in all of it.

  "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." - Jeremiah 29:11 ESV

Allergies!

June

Does anyone else know of the destruction of sanity that will bring me to my sneeze called ALLERGIES? I have tried everything but go to a doctor's visit. My eyes itch, my head hurts, and I have brain fog and weak and achy bones. 

Good times huh? It's been just another challenge being in a new environment. That's ok because while it is a challenge, it is necessary for my body to adjust (or get allergy shots). 

What do allergies have to do with Christianity? Not much, I just wanted to vent my frustrations. 

But since I got you, I want to encourage you this spring and summer. Accept the challenges as a part of life but also know that challenges are painful. Suffering and wondering how to get through it doesn't mean you failed. 

Instead, hope comes from crawling back up and standing firm. You will become those people look to as the pillar, the rock of their faith because you saw tomorrow through faith in Him. 

Romans 5:3-4

"Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance and endurance produces character, and character produces hope..."

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We Celebrate Him!

December

As I sit and think of all my experiences since coming to Texas and serving at "Bright Light", I can see that it is no easy task. God puts us in places that require dedication, tough skin, and faith. 

Yet, as I say that, I have come to further appreciate, have empathy for, and love dearly those in the community. This comes while grieving those we lost, enjoying the growth of children, and watching a slow but steady impact on the small world around us. 

We hope to see Bright Light continue to make relationships while wiser and with steady footing. We also hope to discover new methods for raising funds for the projects that need completing.

Bright Light is changing while remembering our roots and who we serve. Furthermore, we are so blessed to have met new people as we stretch out our arms and become more aware of how to serve them. 

As your pastor and servant, I pray that I am leading well, making disciples, and encouraging you. This hope comes so that we allow the Holy Spirit to stretch our souls to be mighty ambassadors for Christ.

"But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand." Isaiah 64:8

 -Pastor Gabe


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"Fishers of men"

October

In Mark 1:17, Jesus explained what it meant for His disciples to be used in growing the Kingdom. God's glory shines when we are a part of the mission to share the Good News. 

Bright Light has launched ministries that have already made an impact on the community. Some ministries seemed to have trouble lifting off the ground.

That's ok, God wants us to evaluate what we plan to do, do it, asses it, step back, then reassess again. 

Our church is one that plans to be in the trenches with God's people. What that means is that it will be exhausting while exhilarating, heartbreaking though spirit-filled, and with blessings along with criticisms and resentment. 

Yet, in the short time that my wife and I have served here in Central Texas, we have found it a privilege to be a part of Bright Light and those whom we serve. We have received loving support from a multitude of people rooting for us. 

We keep going, pushing forward, and loving every minute of this wild rollercoaster God has us on. 

"Come follow me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men."


Time for deep prayer

September

After the launch of multiple ministries in September, it is time for deep prayer. Bright Light is seeking to serve the Lord as He wants and so we must be aware of His instruction, 

The Bright Light Christian Learning Center (BLCLC) is now in its third week and it is running smoothly. Though the first week of school includes some sniffles and upset tummies, we see progress already in the new students. 

"Family Night" has received a welcomed response from the community. The turnout has been smaller than the chatter on social media, however, we are prayerful and assessing the needs and if it is one in how we serve Thursdays. 

"Celebrate Recovery @ Bright Light" will meet for its third time this coming Sunday. So far, we have had a well-received group attend. Bright Light agrees with its recovery community that it is needed and so it will be the main stay. 

All of these ministries will need your support through prayer. The intent of these ministries is not to grow the church, but to glorify God. In that, we hope to see wounded and hungry souls filled with the Holy Spirit. If God tells us to maneuver, pivot or abandon a particular ministry, we will be obedient and seek His guidance. 

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the Elaboration Phase

August 2022

Bright Light has come to a point where we know what we need for the plans for our future. We are ready to get it done with the equipment and schedule for those plans. 

One example is the start of Bright Light Christian Learning Center (BLCLC) which kicks off on September 6th. Among other plans and items, we have a new swing set donated, a curriculum to use, and as of today, sixteen students are enrolled. The "Meet the Teacher" dinner will be set for August 11th. 

Our Thursday Service will begin September 8th which will include a 6:00p meal and a 7:00p service. This will include a "kid's club" and a study with Pastor Gabe.

September 11th will be the start of Celebrate Recovery @ Bright Light.  Come address your hurts, habits, and hangups with others through a Biblical perspective. 

These are just a few of what God has planned for our ministerial impact on our community.

Do you feel led to take part in these events or others we have planned? If so, contact us and let us get to know you and work together serving our King. 

-Pastor Gabe


The organization Phase

June 2022

Bright Light is now in its organization phase as the congregation works toward bringing new ministries to the community.
Honestly, it is hard work to bring the gospel to a community and although Bright Light is smaller than it has been in the past, we pray that God builds us in proportion to what He has planned for us.

So, we hope and pray that we receive new folks who are or who will become committed to Christ and decide to become part of the Bright Light family.

We need those who are willing to pick up a plunger as well as the Bible. We need faithful people who can help mow, clean, and organize as well as read, teach and help with Saturday evangelism. 

Christianity is a constant movement that encourages, as well as corrects, and it is a faith bound by Jesus and directed by Him. Someone this important isn't just followed, but when a person sees His truth, it is true freedom. 

-Pastor Gabe


We Are Off and Running



The latest at Bright Light Free Will Baptist Church - April of 2022

Our church has kicked off our first event with a bang. Our Good Friday event led the Easter weekend off with a somber but hopeful recollection of what our Savior endured for us, We then had a wonderful Saturday morning despite the humidity with our egg hunt. We took in more than two hundred people to enjoy popcorn, balloons, nachos, and other treats while enjoying crafts.

Sunday morning, we enjoyed our glorious recollection of how He has risen! He is risen indeed. I hope you were able to enjoy the glorious knowledge of His gift to all of us this weekend however you chose to do so. 

This weekend will be one of both longing and joy for my family. My wife will return to California one last time to complete the school year as a teacher at our previous church. I am grateful for her passion and commitment to those in that community. Though I will miss her for the weeks to come, I will continue to plan and serve the community here around Bright Light. There is so much more on the table to prepare for; we will keep you posted on all of it. 

We would like to invite those who seek a church with an ambitious heart for Christ who are ready to serve the community. We hope we can work together with you as we grow in learning who we are, discovering our scars, and celebrating our strengths in Christ Jesus. How does that look, what does God have in store for us and who am I to even take part in it? Well, let's find out together. 

-Pastor Gabe

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