"The solution to burnout isn’t rest but wholeheartedness." This powerful sentiment resonated deeply with me, particularly during my own struggles with burnout. I realized that simply resting wasn't as rejuvenating as I had hoped. This central theme captures the essence of our September Book of the Month, Wholehearted by Chuck DeGroat.  Read More

The grace of God– the grace that hems me in on all sides– this very gift of grace is initiated and accomplished by the Maker Himself. And we pray we would align with the reality of that truth that we may be given to good works. Because, as we well know, grace without works is dead (James 2:14). And works without grace is a life of striving. The only way to do any good thing is to notice that it is grace that both paves the way and pulls you along the road.  Read More

God sees our whole lives and knows exactly how and when to give us what we need so that we can be more formed into His likeness. And not our need for bread and clothes and shelter, but the needs of our hearts as adopted children in His care. He knows of that future day when we will glow with the good care of a Father who has loved us all the while.  Read More

For the month of August, I’m thrilled to share one of my favorite books with you: "Why Can’t We Be Friends?? Avoidance is Not Purity" by Aimee Byrd. It’s truly a standout. Byrd, with her passion for fostering healthy friendships across gender lines, takes a critical look at the harm done by past teachings on this topic. She offers a Biblically grounded vision for nurturing godly relationships that benefit not only the church but also our witness to the outside world.  Read More

A good parent bends down to listen to what their beloved child has to say. A good friend leans in close to hear what the other wants to tell them. Our God is both a Good Father and a Good Friend, so He is bending down and leaning in close to intentionally listen to every word you utter in prayer. He is eager to hear what you have to say, even in instances when you don’t have the words. More important than the words you say is the closeness and intimacy that is experienced.   Read More

Grief used to be a local and communal experience, shared by families and community members directly affected. Of course, major events would have a broader impact, but they were the exception rather than the norm. Today, we are constantly bombarded with loss and tragedy that is far removed from our personal contexts. We are expending an excessive amount of emotional energy, leaving very little capacity to process our own grief.  Read More

And of course, more often than not, I can easily think the wrong things and do the wrong things. It's why I'm grateful today for a prompted prayer that has me asking the Spirit to do this work in me. I can not do it on my own is a lesson I continually learn and just as continually forget.  Read More

"Enjoy: Finding the Freedom to Delight Daily in God's Good Gifts" by Trillia Newbell is a GREAT read. Through practical advice, biblical wisdom, and plenty of laughs, Newbell encourages us to cultivate gratitude, dodge the joy-stealers, and find delight in everything from the mundane to the miraculous. Ultimately, she points to Jesus as the eternal joy-giver, inviting us to live with hearts full of gratitude and eyes wide open to God’s daily blessings. So, go on, enjoy life like it’s one big divine gift from God—because that’s exactly what it is!  Read More

Good as an adjective is defined as “to be desired or approved of.” But, good as a noun is defined as “that which is morally right; righteousness” and a “benefit or advantage to someone or something.” I tend to view things as being good only if I desire or approve of them. With this viewpoint, I center myself as having the final say in what is good for me. But, good as a noun asks me to look outside of myself, to consider what is beneficial and morally right.  Read More

God’s good isn’t always top of mind for me. When I’m distracted by my own desires, perceived needs, priorities or preferences, I tend to bypass those I see around me who could use a little bit of God’s good things. Too often I neglect to work, labor, and endure; this neglect is probably due to my lack of focus on faith, hope and love.  Read More

May we be a church filled to the brim with the quiet confidence and godly peace to serve God out of the abundance of order He has bestowed on us! Not looking back like Lot's wife out of fear, but looking forward like Mary to the order of the coming kingdom!   Read More

For our inaugural book, I've chosen a text that I mentioned in a recent sermon: David Brooks' "How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen.” When we think about Redeemer, we long for church to be a space where people are not only welcomed but earnestly sought after, known, and genuinely loved. But how do we actually do this?!?!   Read More