We read and reflect on Matthew 5:21-26. I talk about being at peace with your own conscience, and owning your own faults vs. seeking to find out what other people hold against you. I also talk about what it is to have a “Getcha God” and how that lives inside of me. I recommit to finding intentional time to read my books about forgiveness.

We read and reflect on Matthew 5:17-20. I talk about two kinds of performance, one being shallow and the other intentional. I also reflect on the fierceness of Jesus, and commit to five myself grace even when - especially when! - I am afraid of Jesus’ ferocity.

We read and reflect on Matthew 5:11-16. I read my favorite prayer from the Book of Common Prayer if the Anglican Church in New Zealand.

We read and reflect on Matthew 5:1-10. I talk about my friend Josiah’s Earthmakers podcast ( https://open.spotify.com/episode/20N45LBKvuaWtKeB2HPrUg?si=164Z19RxTReHGcBDCTpb1w ) as part of my own spiritual practice. I also talk about the paradox of wanting to not be noticed but wanting to be approached, and I commit to giving myself attention in the mirror.

We read and reflect on Mark 6:30-44. I talk about the miracle if there being enough to share and still have more left over. I also reflect on how I am hearing Gods voice within me.

We read and reflect on Matthew 4:18-25. I talk about how weird it is that Jesus calls the brothers to leave their father in the presence of their father. I also talk about the childhood roles I play that keep me stuck as an adult. I commit to sending a picture of my face to my brothers.

We read and reflect on Matthew 4:12-17. I talk about light and darkness co-existing, and how it is impossible to eradicate the darkness... and how at dawn the shadows are long.

We read and reflect on Matthew 4:1-11. I talk about feeling deprived, and the power that the accusing voice has over me. I commit to sharing with my children’s godparents how sad and overwhelmed I am.

We read and reflect on Matthew 3:13-17. I talk about wanting a change of heart - and how you can want a change of heart even if it isn’t from utter darkness into light, just A change. I also reflect on self-worth and commit to affirm myself in the mirror before I sleep.

We read and reflect on Matthew 3:7-12. I reflect on what it means to do something with self-control rather than fall asleep to my own life... despite almost falling asleep while I read.