There are so many things we want in life, and more often than not we end up disappointed when they do not materialize. Wishful thinking might seem harmless, but makes us manufacture realities that will not materialize. So what kinds of things do we expect from God, and do those things take us away from the lift gifted to us?

In the midst of such a divisive season such as ours, it is such an easy thing to keep others at a distance and make our love and acceptance conditional. But is there truly a price for another's love? And would we be willing to pay it?

We are always concerned how we appear before others. We obsess with our looks, our fashion, always trying to express ourselves and make statements before other people. But do we truly pay attention to all the ways we express ourselves, or what we truly choose to wear in front of others?

Which is better for catching someone's attention? Is is better to buy it through a gift, or demand it by force? Many people have different answers for this, depending on the circumstances. It also impacts our perspective of, and interaction with, God. But is the way God catches our attention so simple, or is it more complex to help call attention to that righteous example?

We live in a time, and society, where everyone competes in the public sphere for influence. To gain popularity and attention for being "right" about something. But is perusing that prize all there is to life, and is it really worth it? Are we willing to throw away everything we have just for a moment of glory?

We are called to love our neighbor, and to listen to them for the Spirit of God working through them. But what if the things they say do not sound right? How do we know if it is God speaking, or just another human?

Pain is one of those issues that affects all people, no matter who you are or where you come from. It is something all people attempt to avoid. So why does Jesus say we must accept a way of life where we embrace it? Unless, it is to fulfill a deeper purpose as his disciples.

Is diversity good? Is difference a good thing? These are the questions that we currently wrestle with as a nation, as opposing groups clash due to conflicts in ideology and politics. Is difference something the church must accept to go forward, or will that destroy the mission and purpose we have?

With all the oppressive forces in the world, Christians are under the pressure to "succeed for God" under all circumstances. But what if the fight we must have is not against such powers? What if the the fight we must engage in is closer at hand?

In life there is nothing that is truly "free". There is a price to be paid for everything, and people are always wanting something from us. Does this action apply to God? Is there anything we must pay for access to the promises made by Jesus? Or, is the Gospel truly given with no ulterior motive?