Renew San Diego

JOHN 1: 1-5, 10-18; MATTHEW 2: 1-12

The story of Christmas is one where we are surprised by grace: people who are far away from God draw near as God draws near to them, and everyone is included. 

The question for us today is: What are we looking for in our lives, and how do we respond when God comes close to us? 

LUKE 2:41-52

Christmas is about God seeing the brokenness of our world and getting as close to us as possible, entering into our very story as one of us. 

LUKE 2:1-14

Our native language is peace, joy, and connection. We are meant for flourishing in community, and yet we have all learned the language of violence, fear, pain, and anxiety. In the midst of all of it, Jesus comes to us and says, “Do not be afraid.” 

LUKE 1:39-55

Where we direct our attention is where we end up going. In Advent, we’re invited to consider where it is we are looking and where we’re headed.

PHILIPPIANS 4:4-9 (NIV) & ZEPHANIAH 3:17 (ESV)

Advent is an opportunity to consider the things in our lives that have been vying for our attention and allegiance. We’re invited to recognize that God has sent Jesus to empower us to reorder our loves in such a way that we can orbit around Christ, the center of the universe.

LUKE 21: 25-36

What is the lens that you look through to view this moment in your life, country, and world? Advent offers us a lens that has helped countless others to see their story as taking place within the much bigger story of God’s renewing work in Christ. 

JOHN 18:33–37

Without the right guidance and direction, it’s possible for our lives to be moving in the wrong direction. Today, we’re invited to consider which direction our lives are taking, and to take stock of the wise, trusted authorities we use to inform that direction.

Please forgive the buzzing!!

PSALM 16

Today, the psalmist invites us to cultivate our hinterland — the place that is set apart from the incessant demands and realities of daily life. How do we cultivate joy and trust in God’s presence, even with these demands? How does this practice help us face life with authenticity and wisdom? 

PHILIPPIANS 3:17-4:7

The story of our lives and our world are playing themselves out in the context of a much grander and greater story, and we’re invited to see that bigger story as one of renewal and resurrection. 

MATTHEW 5: 1-11, 43-48

Today’s passage is about peace. It’s an invitation to live a whole, vibrant, connected life. How do we live in a polarized world without becoming more bitter and exhausted? How do we become more hopeful, engaged, peaceful, and loving?