One of the greatest truths of Christmas is that God shows up in the midst.

One of the greatest mysteries today is that God still does this… all the time.

May we be curious, asking the helpful question, "How WILL God show up today?"

Jesus’ earthly (adoptive) father, Joseph, carried a quiet strength (Matthew 1:18-25).

What does a quiet strength embody?    

Quiet strength…

… remains undefended while defending others. Matt. 1:19.

… obeys God without needing to announce it. Matt. 1:24.

… entrusts everything and everyone to God. Matt. 1:25.

This earthly father shows us that strength is not loud; it is loving.

Biblical humility is more than obedience, and it’s certainly not simply indifference either. It is identification with the Humble One—our born, living, dying, and risen Lord Jesus.

Download the Week One Advent Liturgy to linger with the Scriptures and prayers that shape us into His likeness.

Download the doc and spend time with our Advent liturgy for week one.

"I am the Resurrection and the Life"

"Jesus Wept."

Two verses that are almost inseparable.

Why is this? Have a listen.

There are no true christians without some measure of fruit. As Jesus says and James repeats, Fruitfulness (or works) is the unmistakable evidence of genuine faith. Fruit/ Works doesn’t save us.

However, like grapes on a well-nourished, well-lit, well-groomed vine, fruit/ Work is a natural by-product of someone who has that faith that is meant to grow. So what does it look like when a life naturally bears the supernatural fruit of faith?

Which door do we trust to be source of our life? Isolation or Relationship? Scarcity and Everything? Jesus is the door. This door brings life with joy and abundance.

“I am the way and the truth and the life.” 

This may be the most doctrinal or theological “I AM” statement of Jesus. 

Unquestionably clear. 

Not easily forgotten. 

Yet, in the culture of today’s church, we can easily forget (certain aspects of) ... 

… Jesus’ Unconventional Way, 

… His Eternal Truth 

… and the Life today Jesus offers.

Are you ever within the most ordinary action or a familiar routine and receive a sense of love/joy/ peace that is completely without cause? … a calming "Good" seemingly out of nowhere with no explanation other than the beauty of God?

This is the Fresh Presence of the Bread of Life. And it is MEANS and the END.

What keeps us from this bread? ... from Jesus?

As We need to be reminded who we are and more importantly: Whose We Are.

…

We belong to, We worship, We submit to…

The God of the New Testament

Who is the God of the Old Testament

Who is our God of today.

What is the Heart of God like?