It is hard to reconcile the fact that someone can preach the gospel of Jesus and have speech filled with hate. But it happens all the time. Finding Jesus does not mean that we will immediately have the correct thought. Most of us are stuck in our culture, and we are products of our community. And sometimes we don't even realize that there is a problem until we meet someone who makes us reevaluate. Jesus was constantly making people rethink their comfortable thoughts and challenging them to look deeper and really see. He still does that today, if you will let Him.

Last week, it was fruit; this week, it's seeds. Planting some ideas, hopefully.

Thinking and talking through Galatians 5. What kind of fruit are you producing?

I talk about three artists/creative people who help me work on loss, lament, and finding hope. I will always recommend listening to their music/reading their books/seeing them live whenever you can. 

Ross King - Ross

Published Author ─ The Tyler Merritt Project

Joel Ansett

Jim is back, You should listen.

If you are a follower of Christ, then you are called to participate in Kingdom work and growth. Jesus calls us to be faithful with what we have been given. And you have been placed precisely where you are for such a time as this. So let's get out there! We got work to do. 

 What rhythm have you developed for yielding to Jesus? We often seek guidance on big questions like career, marriage, college, and where to live, but what about finding ways to say yes and yield to God's will daily? 

I saw a post on Threads this week that stated: "Yes, Jesus hung out with sinners. But He also told them to go and sin no more. Let's not forget to do that part." And wow, do I have thoughts. What if the main invitation we offered to people was not "Come and see Sunday Morning Worship," but "Come and walk with me"? 

Imagine being in a magical restaurant where you can order any dish you've ever wanted. What would your starter, main course, side dish, and dessert be? Can Paul and Callie guess the other person's selections? This one is a little more lighthearted than previous chats, and it is a lot of fun. Don't listen hungry, though!

Regardless of the circumstances, challenges, or difficulties you experience, one response is always available. Count your blessings. Find what you can be thankful for.