In a world that often overwhelms us with temporary solutions to deep-seated problems, the story of Jesus' resurrection emerges as a beacon of enduring hope. Rooted in the Gospel of John, this narrative invites us to consider a profound truth: if Jesus truly rose from the dead, then all our concerns and struggles can eventually be transformed.

In our fast-paced, achievement-driven society, we often grapple with the existential question: What is the point of life? For many, purpose is sought in wealth, relationships, or personal success. Yet, as Jesus teaches in John 15, the true aim is fruitfulness. But what does it mean to lead a fruitful life, and how can we cultivate it?

In a world increasingly dominated by radical individualism, anxiety, and consumerism, finding a sense of peace and purpose can feel like navigating a storm. Reflecting on Jesus' teachings from John 14 and 15, there's a clear invitation to embrace something deeper and more fulfilling: the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit.

Two thousand years ago, one of history's most polarizing moments unfolded in a small town outside Jerusalem. Jesus had just raised Lazarus from the dead, and suddenly, no one could ignore Him anymore. He wasn't just another teacher with interesting ideas—He had demonstrated power over death itself. Everyone had to decide: Who is this man, and how will I respond?

Is there a way to blend the mystic and the missiologist? To be both poet and pragmatist? Philosopher and philanthropist? Can I read Tolkien and James Clear? Maybe this is just a personal longing, but it might also be the path forward for the modern pastor.

How do we deal with our weaknesses? As someone who has a speech impediment that I’ve tried to hide for most of my life, I’ve wrestled with this question more than most. In this article, I hope to shed some light on this from the story of Jesus’ healing of the blind man from John 9.

In a world quick to judge and condemn, we find a powerful narrative that challenges our perceptions and invites us to embrace a radical form of love. The story of the woman caught in adultery, found in John 8, provides a profound lesson on compassion, forgiveness, and the true nature of Jesus' mission.

In a world constantly chasing after the next big thrill, we often find ourselves caught between two extremes - empty religion on one side and mediocre hedonism on the other. But what if there's something more potent, more pleasurable, and more fulfilling than either of these? What if the joy we're all searching for isn't found in rigid rules or fleeting pleasures, but in a Person?

The end of a year always invites reflection. For some, it brings gratitude. For others, disappointment. For many, a strange mix of exhaustion and hope.

Years ago, I wrote about closing a year with intention. Since then, life has changed. I’m married. We have kids. We planted a church. I’ve learned (often the hard way) that fruitfulness isn’t about hype, grit, or trying harder. It’s about clarity, alignment, and faithful rhythms.

So here’s how I now close a year and step into the next with a clear heart and a steady pace.

Until 2018, I averaged about one book a month and felt pretty good about it, until I learned that Jefferson Bethke reads ten times that, around 120 books a year. Later, I found out Mark Batterson reads 250. That moment shifted my whole mindset. I’m still far from either of them, but I’ve settled into a rhythm of reading about a book a week.

Maybe this is that paradigm-shifting moment for you. Reading is one of the most impactful investments we can make. If so, here are some of my favorites from this year (in no particular order).

In this message, we're invited to confront the hidden parts of ourselves that we often try to conceal. Through the story of the Samaritan woman at the well, we see how our attempts to hide can shrivel both our inner and outer worlds. But there's hope! Jesus intentionally seeks us out in these hidden places, offering true healing and transformation. The living water He provides is far more satisfying than any worldly well we might run to. This reminds us that real joy isn't found in external circumstances, but in an intimate relationship with God. As we reflect on our own lives, where might we be hiding? What wells are we drawing from that leave us ultimately unsatisfied? Today, we're challenged to bring our hidden places into the light and experience the fullness of joy that comes from Christ alone.

This article invites us to rethink the meaning of weakness through the lens of 2 Corinthians 12. Drawing on the apostle Paul’s reflection on his “thorn in the flesh,” it reveals how our vulnerabilities can become channels for God’s power and grace. Rather than viewing weakness as limitation, we’re encouraged to see it as an opportunity for divine strength to be made perfect in us. Through humility and dependence on God, our struggles gain purpose, shaping us into deeper reflections of Christ’s power and love. This message challenges us to embrace our weaknesses with faith, trusting that God’s grace is always sufficient and that even our greatest struggles can bring Him glory.

This is my first time planting a church, so I’m no expert. But I’ve been reflecting on what’s surprised me—lessons I didn’t hear often from the usual church-planting conversations. These aren’t exhaustive, and they’re shaped by one context: a city center in a progressive, post-Christian environment. Still, I hope they’re useful if you’re thinking about planting in a similar place.

Genesis reminds us that even after the flood, humanity’s struggle with sin didn’t wash away. Noah’s fresh start shows us that the real problem isn’t our circumstances—it’s the sin within us. Too often, we chase recognition instead of embracing God’s call to be a blessing. This article invites us to wrestle with those truths and discover what it means to live with God’s purpose at the center.

This exploration of Genesis 1 invites us to rediscover creation and our place in it. It highlights God’s immense power, creativity, and intentional design, urging us to see beyond chance to a purposeful, involved Creator. This view shapes our identity, grounds us in truth, and offers strength in hardship. As we reflect on the beauty of creation—from sunsets to peacocks—we're called to respond with praise, recognizing God's presence in every detail of the world and drawing closer to Him through life’s challenges.

Are we truly free from the fear of death? Hebrews 2 reminds us that Jesus shared in our humanity to break the power of death and the one who wielded it. His resurrection removes death’s sting, offering not fear but hope. In Christ, death becomes a doorway to eternal joy. This truth transforms our perspective, freeing us to live boldly, love deeply, and serve selflessly. When fear no longer holds us captive, we can embrace each day with purpose, trusting that our future is secure in Him.

This article explores the true purpose of our lives, challenging us to move beyond superficial pursuits and embrace a deeper, more fulfilling existence. The point of life is to "passionately pursue the presence of God, the practices of God, and the people of God as we pour out our lives for the good of others." This teaching is meant to encourage us to reevaluate our priorities and align our lives with God's intentions for us.

This article explores the powerful moment in Mark 8:27-33 when Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” It challenges readers to reflect on their own understanding of Jesus and how that shapes their faith and daily life. The article outlines four common views of Jesus—both from biblical times and today—and ultimately points us to the truth of Jesus as the King of an upside-down kingdom, one marked by humility, sacrifice, and servant leadership.

In a world growing more chaotic and uncertain, how can we stand boldly for Christ? This article dives into the idea of kingdom courage, using Acts 4 as a powerful example. The early apostles faced intense opposition, yet their unwavering commitment to God's mission serves as an inspiration for believers today. The key takeaway: true courage comes from seeing God rightly, prioritizing His purpose over our personal comfort, and depending on the Holy Spirit—not our own strength. It's a call to live boldly, anchored in faith and empowered by God's presence.

In this article, we explore Mark 2:13-17, focusing on Jesus’ interaction with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus is the Great Physician, who came not for the righteous but for those who are spiritually sick. This passage calls us to recognize our own need for healing, receive Jesus as our healer, and follow His example by reaching out with compassion to those society often overlooks.