1 Peter 4:12 says, "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you." None of that sounds like good news, does it? But it's life--it's the reality we live with. We can't deny that pain comes all we can do is find a way to turn it into something that will glorify God.

What happens to our world if the Church fails to thrive?

When we thrive in our faith together people notice.

There is perhaps no place more essential for our faith to thrive than in our families.

How do we thrive when life isn't fair?

The way we live out our faith can change the lives of people around us.

Do we crave the things that God craves for us?

Chaos doesn't make appointments. It comes into your life unannounced and uninvited and turns everything upside down. Whatever you hold onto in those moments better be solid enough to get you through.

This is why Peter starts off with the words, "Prepare your minds for action."

My baccalaureate sermon for the Kansas High School class of 2015

"I'm trying to thrive." What if it's not about us trying, though?