Even though Esther is the only book in the Bible that doesn't mention God, He is clearly active. When times are tough and circumstances are difficult, God worked to accomplish the purpose of his will—the saving of his people. Sometimes we just need to step up and step out to see Him.

Despite being misunderstood and mistreated, Jesus made it a habit to sit at the table with the oppressed, the outcast and those considered to be the worst of sinners. We should be both grateful recipients and humble reflections of his compassionate heart and inclusive approach to others.

Shepherd Ordination Service

When it comes to leading like Jesus, we must embrace the paradox of power. To lead means to serve, to be great means to humble oneself, and to have a lasting influence on others means to put others in front of yourself.

Jesus' invitation to be his disciples is a calling filled with paradox and tension. We find life when we learn to lose our lives, and we truly live when we are willing to die. Sounds confusing. But Jesus' example of life and death gives us clarity on what it means to lose your life

For many, life is about fulfilling a longing. We spend a lifetime searching for significance and meaning. Jesus invites us to drink "living water" that will forever satisfy our souls and fulfill our deepest longings.

Life is filled with important intersections. At these crossroads, your decision of direction determines much of your destiny in life. Choosing to follow Jesus on the narrow road of discipleship forever impacts your life and eternity.

Every invitation anticipates a response. When it comes to the life-giving invitation for salvation in Christ, the apostles of Jesus explained how to respond and what it means to accept the invitation. Now, that same invitation awaits your response.

No concern of yours is too small or too unimportant for God. He cares for you and invites you to knock on "heaven's door" with the circumstances of your life and the matters of your heart.