Jesus Christ introduces a new order of things into the world, not merely an updated order. Enter friction. Let’s be honest - none of us are eager to sign up for the hard life, but what if the inherent friction between the old order of things and the way of Jesus is indeed the way to a full, flourishing, and free life.

Related Sermon - Would A God of Love Send Anyone to Hell?

Spotify -

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5s52OsUXYHBYY2961lCzJW?si=dfcca7a80ab64190

Apple -

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/redemption-hou-podcast/id1747381433?i=1000656189377

Prompts:

Jesus invites us to follow Him. This is the singular invitation on the table. There is no lite or pro tier, just disciples. What about this might challenge you? What about this might free you?

“I sing because I’m happy / I sing because I’m free / His eyes are on the sparrow / so I know He watches me.” This refrain has been sung by people over the years who have had plenty of reason to disbelieve the words coming out of their mouths. Take some time to get honest with God about how these words hit you at the moment. God is cool with honest prayers.

Practice: Read and reflect

Read Isaiah 60, which opens with a poem about the holy city reflecting God’s light. Then spend some time reflecting. Perhaps grab a writing instrument and a notepad. Have you ever found yourself at the end of your rope - tired and burned out? The light comes from outside of you. The light shines. That is simply what it does. Spend some time reflecting on this and getting curious on how this might allow you to exhale today.