God was forming something special at Antioch. By bringing different people with a variety of giftings, passions and talents together, a team was created that would impact the world forever. While we seek after purpose in all sorts of avenues in our life, God offers deep fulfillment in being part of His church on mission together.

When confronted and criticized in our community, it can be very difficult for the critics and the criticized to make use of critical thinking skills, but NOT a critical spirit. How are these different? Why is this so important? How can we learn to do better?

While many would say the idea of God's wrath makes them feel uncomfortable, an equal amount (or maybe more) people would reluctantly admit His gracious Love makes them more uncomfortable. Even today, God is still setting us free from our cultural or religious programming that naturally excludes people unlike us.

While many would say the idea of God's wrath makes them feel uncomfortable, an equal amount (or maybe more) people would reluctantly admit His gracious Love makes them more uncomfortable. Even today, God is still setting us free from our cultural or religious programming that naturally excludes people unlike us. 

Without the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit we can become shells or shadows of who God intended us to be. Whether paralyzed, dead or hollowed out, the Lord Jesus speaks to our condition with the words "Get Up!" He takes us by the hand and presents us to the world as agents of His continued transformation.

At first glance, it would appear that Herod holds all the cards in his showdown with Peter. Yet when you look closer, we find that power and authority in God's Kingdom comes when we our hearts are in their proper place before Him. 

At first glance, it would appear that Herod holds all the cards in his showdown with Peter. Yet when you look closer, we find that power and authority in God's Kingdom comes when we our hearts are in their proper place before Him. 

As the year draws to a close, it invites us to reflect on what has been and dream of what might yet unfold. Whatever shadows linger from your past, the journey ahead remains a thrilling unknown—like Abraham's call into the wilderness. In such uncertainty, faith in God stands as the truest guide.

The far reaching power of a simple act challenges us to move beyond performative charity and to rediscover the ancient call of philoxenia—the love of strangers. By stepping into the shoes of the suffering and opening our hearts to those in need, we reflect the selfless love of Christ that "stepped down" into our world. Discover how a simple act of hospitality can become a divine encounter and a powerful fruit of our faith this Christmas season. 

The far reaching power of a simple act challenges us to move beyond performative charity and to rediscover the ancient call of philoxenia—the love of strangers. By stepping into the shoes of the suffering and opening our hearts to those in need, we reflect the selfless love of Christ that "stepped down" into our world. Discover how a simple act of hospitality can become a divine encounter and a powerful fruit of our faith this Christmas season.