On Saturday, many of us heard the story of a smaller community of faith in a anti-church culture that was at a bit of junction:

1) Would they continue to care for one another (not a terrible thing) or...

2) was it time to discern new ways (which are actually the ancient ways) that the community would be sent together care for those in her city, networks and neighborhoods in order that the city would prosper… and the church would begin to earn the credibility Jesus so deserves.

Let's choose the latter. The first question... Who?

Media. Entertainment. There is so much to take in... But the greatest stories are within Scripture AND the heart of one who trusts Christ is Lord.

This Sunday, we learned from those who create space to hear the Author of life at work in the lives of others (ie. group shepherds).

Taken.

Given Thanks.

Broken and Poured Out.

Given to the followers who in-turn....

Give themselves away for the sake of all.

This is the story of Jesus, which reveals our stories as well. Please take a look at the attached handout on our website: https://thewatersedgechurch.org/messages

It’s not too easy to find godly men and women to speak into our lives.

One of the greatest spaces to develop intimate relationships that…

… encourage each other

… sharpen one another

… speak truth in love

… are discovered in Jesus following personal/ social spaces —> groups!

Do I need to confess my sins to others?

Great question.

If you’re asking that question, it’s an indication that you need to heavily lean on others. Let's discuss a necessary (and missing) pillar in the church: Confession.

Here is a brief recap of our "Ordinary Time" series conclusion.

The Question: How do W.E. (continue to) cultivate a "Rule of Life"?

Ps - I attached a copy of my manuscript if you want (almost) all that was discussed.

On 8/3, W.E. met on the beach, part of our summer rhythms. This conversation was about deeper Desires being giving rise to a life of Disciplines and then Devotion. You can find the PDF of the liturgy on our website: https://thewatersedgechurch.org/messages

Ps - Many of the questions were adapted from Pete Scizzaro's "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality." (Give credit where credit is due).

Witness and subsequent Hospitality...

The header is witness. One of the primary means of hospitality, that is creating space for strangers so these guests can move from enemies to family. Henri Nouwen states one of the major, key movements in the Christ-Following life is moving from Hostility to Hospitality. Creating space. Witness, then, is designed to fill this space through the breathable rhythm of listening & responding.

Thus, What does it mean to witness? And how do we do so?

The world is full of brokenness. What may be more shocking is that the world is also full of beauty.

God created us to enjoy... Indeed, Enjoy God, one another and nature. However, we can also delight in sweet strawberries, rolling waves and belly laughter.

How do we know our desires are leading us to God and God's pleasure(s)?

We bring our desires to God.

When is the last good you had a good cry? Tears are cathartic. With crying, freedom arises.

(Un)coincidentally, a hearty laugh commonly follows our tears...

... chuckling at our tears themselves.

... remembering the gift(s) we are grieving.

... rejoicing in the freedom to be feel and be sad.

Tears and Laughter are best friends. Sorrow and Joy may be just the world’s dance partners. As a church, we are called to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Join us this Sunday as we discuss how we can attune to this sort of communal laughing AND crying.