Thanksgiving -- The Gateway to the Holiday Season -- a time of reflection, celebration, family gatherings, much to be thankful for. While these are important, at the core there is so much more.... who we are and what is it we really live for? Psalm 90:14 reads, "satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sign for joy and be glad all our days"... and Psalm 73:25-26 states "whom have I in heaven by you? and earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and may heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

With growing advancements in technology and social media, more of the "Faithful" are staying home, preferring the convenience of the coach or recliner to that of "in person" church community worship and fellowship. In this podcast the explore the topic and discuss the value of getting back "into" church.

Pat defines "The Gap" as the difference between our knowledge of God word and it's impact on our life experience. In this episode, Pat identifies four practical steps to proactively implementing God's word in our lives.

Psalm 46 reminds of that God is both our refuge and our strength, he is ever present, and in Matthew 28:20 Jesus promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age. Life is full of challenge, change, and at times disappointment. We are called to reflect on the truth and allow it to bring renewal and restoration to both our soul and spirit. We are called to "be still and know that I (He) is God."

These were the words penned by Abraham Lincoln and spoken during the Gettysburg Adress. These words were used to describe the soldiers who died for the Union during the American Civil War. These words defined the "total giving of oneself to a cause, inspiring others to continue that cause and uphold the principles for which the sacrifices were made."

As Christ followers, we are instructed to take up our cross! In Matthew 16:24, Jesus stated, "If anyone would come after me, le him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."

Am I willing? Are you willing? Is the Body of Christ willing?

What is the Gap? It could be the difference between what we say we believe and how we live our lives. One Pastor puts it this way "My goal in life is to close the gap between who I am now vs the I am raised with Christ." Let's consider the cost of this closure!!!

Charlie wanted to be remembered for the most important expression of his life -- His Faith in Jesus Christ and Courage to Profess it! He loved the "Truth," and knew that ultimately, God's word is what sets us free! He pursued this with passion and conviction. Can we do the same?

What is the Discipleship Gap? It is the gap between what we say we believe and how we actually live our lives. Let's talk about it! Are we fully devoted and do we live the life He calls us to live? This is an encouraging look at where we are.

Charlie was a fearless purveyor of God's word and truth! He was unapologetic for his faith and knew the risk delivering truth represented and yet he did not shy from speaking his convictions, all of which were formed through the heart of his faith in Jesus Christ.

Let us boldly stand for the truth, for faith, for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ .... Having done all to stand, stand! -- Eph 6:13-18

Pat is on the Pastor staff of Dardene Presbyterian Church in Dardene Praire, MO. He has a heart to see people discover the virtues of "Christ In you" and is responsible for family development from birth, the formation of family, and beyond. He is also the acting Director of Youth Ministries. Pat is dynamic, enthusiastic, and full of life and a love for the Lord. Listen as he encourages us in our faith and life in Christ!