Being grateful is an endearing quality. How do we grow in the habit of gratitude, where does it come from? Are some people just born more thankful than others? In this season, may we slow down and realize how to be more thankful.

Once there is a proper understanding of money's place in life, what's next? Jesus challenges people that how they spend their money is the defining trait of what is important to them. Accepting and living this reality in relation to the kingdom of God will change many things about our approach to money. It can help us understand that there is more to life than this life.

Amy Eckrote, director of the Macy Food Pantry joins us for part two of the October podcast. Amy's passion and drive comes through loud and clear as she talks about the pantry and the often overlooked or just unknown, food insecurity that exists in our area.

Once we discover that our relationship with money is not all it's cracked up to be, how do we break up? And once we do, what's next? If I'm saying no to the lure of money, there is a better way I can yes to, and that better way brings me closer to heart of Jesus.

Jackie Johnson is the director of the Fulton County Pack-a-Backpack program that helps hundreds of local kids throughout the year with new supplies and backpacks. Hear the story of why this program is so important to Jackie and the opportunity we have to partner with her.

It’s rare to love money and only money. So, we must ask ourselves, what is it that we’re really chasing after? What most people love are the results of money. However, it's an empty promise, it never satisfies. Rather than trust in riches, we must learn to trust in Him who richly provides!

On its own, money can be a very positive thing. It is a tool. Tools are only as good or evil as the purpose for which they are used. So what’s the problem with money? Money attracts strong desire—sometimes it can be so strong as to completely derail the trajectory of our lives, even damaging our faith. 

The Christian life is often described as a journey and the author of Hebrews likens it to a race. How well are we running that race? Like any distance event, the race of life can be difficult but Jesus has given us the tools to run well!

Praise and thanksgiving together form the capstone of soul care. They take our focus off our failings, our disappointments, our hurts, and ourselves, redirecting our attention to the Lord who loves and cares for us—even when we’re at our worst. Practicing gratitude even when reality doesn’t live up to our expectations is vital to our daily soul care. 

Mill Creek celebrates God's faithfulness over the past 20 years.