In a world characterized by constant distractions and fast-paced living, it's easy to lose sight of our true purpose and get caught up in the daily grind. But what if there was a way to infuse every aspect of our lives with intentionality and meaning? In this blog post, we'll explore the seven key themes from a thought-provoking Mercycast episode that delves into the art of intentional living, even for those who haven't heard.
I sat alone. Sure, I sat in a crowded arena during a presentation on human trafficking. Still, when I learned it was happening in my backyard, I felt utterly isolated and paralyzed. What could I do? My seminary education did not prepare me for this. If you are anything like me, you have probably felt overwhelmed as you have tried to think through how you and your church can respond to sex and labor trafficking.
It's easy to see the need for change in our workplaces or communities, but we rarely know the part we play in it. There is a distinct possibility that we could be part of the problem. When we recognize the need for personal growth and embrace the challenge of transformation, we can ignite a fire that spreads through our communities like wildfire. In this blog, we'll explore the cascading impact of personal growth on community transformation.
More often than not, we fail to recognize how our vulnerabilities are exacerbated in seasons of transition. During these times, it's normal to feel excitement, uncertainty, and even a touch of apprehension. But remember, as frightening as it may feel, change can be an opportunity for growth and transformation.
As a result of the pandemic, her nonprofit organization, Rise Collective, lost a significant amount of funding, which forced her to make a difficult decision. At that moment, her options became 1) to give up what she had spent the last 5+ years building and go into another line of work or 2) to give it all that she had, give up her salary to keep the operations afloat and fight to keep her dream alive. Courtney chose to fight and move forward.
I couldn't shake the feelings of dread. These constant thoughts crowded out any sense of reason. "Do I know God? Does he even want to know me?"
Being a college student working part-time at the local Christian bookstore, I did the only thing I knew to do: I stole a copy of Billy Graham's "Steps to Peace with God" and hid in the bathroom. I thoroughly examined every word of the evangelical tract during my impromptu borderline illegal 15-minute break. I paused to pray, hoping that this time, this prayer would take. But until now, no matter what I did, I couldn't find peace.
"This too shall pass." My mom's coworker gave me that advice during a difficult time during my teenage years. She said it with so much resignation that I had to laugh. I love the phrase, but I have found it not always true. Sometimes the darkness doesn't lift. Faith is not something that comes easily during difficult seasons. It's natural to feel frustrated, confused, and even angry with God when life seems to fall apart. But, as difficult as it may be, leaning into your faith during these times is crucial.
