We talk about karma a lot in our culture. But what is karma and is it biblical? The parable of the laborers in the vineyard shows us that God doesn't play by the rules of karma and chooses to treat everyone with kindness and generosity. And he's calling us to treat others in the same way.

Jesus taught by telling stories. There's a lot we can learn from these stories he told – even thousands of years later. This week we look at the parable of the mustard seed and the parable of the leaven. The kingdom of heaven, as Jesus describes in these parables, is tiny and upside down – so different than what we normally think about it.

The strongest friendships involve accountability. Having those friends who keep us accountable can help us grow mentally and spiritually. Accountability partners can shape us into the person we want to become.

Being authentic in our friendships is sometimes harder than we think. There's multiple barriers that keep us from being authentic. Once we intentionally work on those barriers, we can begin real, authentic relationships.

One of the most important parts about creating meaningful friendships is just being available. We need to be available to celebrate the good and mourn the struggles that our friends experience. We need to be someone that can be relied on. Doing this will strengthen your friendships so much more!

The 2024 election will be here before we know it. No matter the results of the election, we're called to continue living like Jesus – living like a citizen of heaven. During this stressful time, lets be the ones that shine Jesus's love.

Not just in this year, but every year, we should be dedicated to loving and standing up for everyone – not just people that look the way we do. We should step into this year ready to be justice oriented, committed to mercy for all, and to be a humble presence.

It's so easy to get caught up in politics and declaring that you're for this side or that side. It gets to the point sometimes where winning for "our side" because more important than reflecting the power of God's love. It's time we stick up for God's side and not a political side.

We've stepped foot into another election year. I'm sure many of us are mentally preparing for the mud slinging and arguments that will come from "the other side" as the year progresses. As we navigate this year, we need to make it a point to show love and grace to those who we don't agree with and find common ground in this stressful time.

Our Christmas message at Bridgeway for 2023