A gift only becomes a gift when it is received. When we say yes to Jesus, we receive the gift of new life. But that isn’t the end, it is only the beginning and frankly it’s not the point. When we say “Yes” to Jesus, we receive the continuous gift that is the Giver.

As you listen, please also see the attached liturgy. Feel free to share with others.

Christmas reminds us where God resides. God dwells in the brokenness of the world AND in our lives.

Because of his love and grace, God moves toward us in our brokenness. The question is How do we move towards our... brokenness?

In the west, “leadership” is a highly venerated term. Terms like ambitious, commanding, cunning, negotiating, strategic all come to mind.

The word “leader” is not commonly found in the Bible. Instead, we should look to the term “shepherd”. Shepherds guide, provide, protect and praise God for God has done and who God has provided (Luke 2, cf. Psalm 23).

The world might just need less “leaders.” Instead, may we effort towards becoming gracious shepherds.

In the Incarnation, God allowed himself to be taken… and allowed much to be taken away.

Let's begin this Advent by discussing the profound depths of God's self-exile.

It's an extended family Sunday when we get to hear the message from the ears of

child. We also discussed the greatest yet most subtle shift that happens as we (W.E.) follow Jesus.

"Take up your cross".

From the God Who loves is this gentle reminder of our serious calling.

Why the call?

At the end of oneself is the riches of true joy.

Why gather on Sunday? Do we gotta? Do we wanna? Collective worship is an essential rhythm of Sabbath rest. Let's figure the ways forward together to honor God's heart and our rest.

NOTE: This message is poor quality. W.E. apologize and are working towards a better way forward. If you want the message notes, please email [email protected]

Burn out involves a developing apathy/ indifference toward the work of God.

When we reach capacity, what are the specific support system(s) I am needing?

Such a vital conversation because... with little rest comes little revelation. Conversely, with sufficient rest comes sufficient revelation. With space to be comes space to receive.

What do you need in order to retreat into rest? There is a handout attached.

God is the provider and the provision... and so are we.

When we surrender what we have for the sake of others, somehow everyone will have more.

As disciples, how do we experience the provision of God while becoming the provision of God?

Children and Children of God require guides who lovingly invite us into god-honoring relationships and challenges us into kingdom responsibilities.

Who is someone(s) that challenged you into the more loving way? ... to rugged purpose, greater generosity, merciful justice, sacrificial love, and ultimately towards Christlikeness?