Jesus is kind and loving, but he is also honest. He has the hard conversations and speaks the truth in love. We are called to do the same. Because that’s what friends do.

On multiple occasions, Jesus stands up for someone who is criticized, pushed aside, or told to shut up. And we’re called to do the same. Because that’s what friends do.

While the disciples knew Jesus intimately, the average person observing him knew one thing: he indiscriminately helps people. Because that’s what friends do. And we’re called to do the same.

Is everything determined by our own efforts? Nope, and that’s a good thing because “all have sinned and fallen short.” Instead, God helps the helpless and those who help others.

How do we strive to be true to God instead of ourselves? This can easily be boiled down to a matter of pride. And what’s the opposite of pride? Humility…something Jesus demonstrated time and again

"Everything Happens for a Reason" is a wonderful lie embraced by many. Sometimes the reason something happens is because of the choices we make, or simply not paying attention to what’s happening around us. Don’t overthink it.

Live long enough or study history and you know that’s not true. Sometimes there is suffering and pain in life that we can’t handle ourselves. But God can. His power is made perfect in our weakness.

What really happens after we die? Well, we don’t become angels. Better yet, the bible promises that Christians are with the Lord in God’s house, every tear is dried, and there is joyful worship of God. Nice!

The message title is biblical, but was meant to limit retaliation – i.e., only an eye for an eye. But Jesus says no retaliation. Love your enemies just as God loves all, with unrelenting compassion and undeserving grace. 

Gold is for the Magi’s gift and also for God’s glory. Will we offer God the best that we have this new year? Will we give God the Glory?