We read and reflect on Luke 12:13-21. I talk about being overwhelmed by the abundance of possessions I have collected. I also talk about being shamed by popular financial teachings. I commit to being thankful for what I have now... and maybe even cleaning some of it up.

We read and reflect on Matthew 7:13-21. I talk about chasing my son through hidden paths at the dog park. I also talk about choosing Sabbath as a practice for life.

We read and reflect on Matthew 7:1-12. I talk about judgment and the inner critical parent, who is likely doing to us inside exactly what we are doing to others. I also talk about being taught that a prayer for myself is selfish, and so I ask a good gift from God and invite you to do the same.

We read and reflect on Matthew 6:25-34. I talk about the real worries for clothing and food I have every day, and the comfort that someone else knows my needs. I commit to going out to lay in the grass and look up at the stars.

We read and reflect on Matthew 6:17-24. I talk about the pattern I have had to dig into other people’s treasure, and wonder whether or not this was ministry or selfishness. I also talk about how it is music that gives light to my eyes. I commit to either looking into my own eyes or listening to music under my weighted blanket.

We read and reflect on Matthew 6:7-15. I talk about my greatest source of anxiety (my student loans), and the connection it has to forgiveness... and how I don’t know how to forgive (or be forgiven). I also talk about attunement, and commit to raise my hands in silence with the intention to know my higher power’s will and have the strength to carry it out.

We read and reflect on Matthew 6:1-6 & 16-18. I talk about the relationship between secrecy and loneliness.

We read and reflect on Luke 4:16-30. I talk about what it is to want someone’s attention and affirmation but not their criticism. I also talk about how I do not act for my own best interest because if the assumptions I make about other people’s reactions. I commit to praying the prayers from my recovery workbook.

We read and reflect on Matthew 5:38-48. I talk about the trials of raising my oldest son, and commit to pray for him (and ask for your prayers!). I also talk about my (fledgling) practice of writing out ways that I was an awesome dad during the day, and invite you to do the same for your context.

We read and reflect on Matthew 5:27-37. I talk about adultery and my story. I reflect briefly on what it might mean to cut out your heart and fling it away - to suffer.