As we conclude our journey through 2 Peter, we're reminded of the profound certainty that anchors our faith: the return of Jesus Christ. This isn't just a distant hope, but a reality that should shape our daily lives. Peter challenges us to grow in grace and knowledge, not out of fear, but from a place of joyful anticipation. We're called to view the time we have as a precious gift – an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God and to share His love with others. In a world that often preaches uncertainty, we find comfort and purpose in this ultimate certainty. How are we using the time we've been given? Are we sleepwalking through life, or are we intentionally pursuing Christ-likeness? Let's consider how our current choices are preparing us for that moment when we stand face-to-face with our Creator, ready to account for how we've lived our lives in light of His grace.

In 2 Peter 3:1-13, we're challenged to confront the discouragement and doubt that often creep into our spiritual lives. As we navigate a world where it seems the unjust prosper, we're reminded of two fundamental pillars of our faith: truth and sacrifice. The apostle Peter urges us to cling to the unchanging truths of Scripture, even when everything around us seems uncertain. This message encourages us to critically examine what we base our lives on - is it God's enduring word or fleeting cultural trends? We're called to embrace sacrifice as essential to our spiritual growth, following Christ's example of self-denial. This counter-cultural approach may not be flashy, but it's the path to genuine transformation. As we face life's challenges, let's recommit to these core principles, trusting that God's grace empowers us to live them out.

Jordan Bird from The Restore Network shares about their mission and work, and how The Bridge can be a part of helping to change the culture of foster care in Illinois.

In this powerful exploration of true immortality, we're challenged to rethink our understanding of eternal life. The message draws a stark contrast between worldly notions of immortality - like fame or achievements - and the transformative power of Christ's resurrection. Using Romans 6 as a foundation, we're reminded that our new life in Christ isn't just about living forever, but about living differently right now. This 'new way of life' offers us a fresh identity, a new reality, and a divine purpose that frees us from the burden of sin and self-absorption. As we contemplate the empty tomb, we're invited to embrace a life filled with God's presence and joy - not just as a future hope, but as our present reality. How might our lives change if we truly lived as new creations, empowered by the same spirit that raised Christ from the dead?

In Matthew's account of Jesus healing two blind men, we're reminded that God's agenda often differs from our own. As Jesus approaches Jerusalem amidst great excitement, He pauses to address the needs of those society overlooks. This narrative challenges us to reconsider our priorities and recognize that true transformation occurs not in sweeping societal changes, but in individual hearts. We're encouraged to ask ourselves: what in our lives hinders us from fully following Christ? Just as Jesus asked the blind men, 'What do you want me to do for you?', He invites us to bring our deepest needs before Him. This story beautifully illustrates how God's compassion cuts through the noise of our busy lives, reminding us that we're never too insignificant for His attention and healing touch.

We desperately need to reconsider our understanding of peace and the true nature of Christ's mission. Jesus declares He's come to bring fire and division, not the superficial peace our world often seeks. This passage urges us to wake up to the reality of our broken world and the transformative power of making real choices. We're reminded that following Christ isn't about comfort or safety, but about confronting our true selves and the world around us. The imagery of fire consuming everything speaks to the radical change Jesus brings, burning away false realities to reveal God's truth. As we grapple with this message, we're called to examine our own lives: Are we settling for the world's version of peace, or are we ready to embrace the division that comes with truly following Christ? This teaching invites us to choose wholeness over safety, even when it means facing uncomfortable truths about ourselves and our world.