God loves me so that I might make him— his ways, his salvation, his glory, and his greatness—known among all nations.

What if all it took to bring us to our knees and to ignite our affections was the Word opened and the presence of God? What if that was enough for us? What if it didn't take a great band to evoke that kind of response from us in worship? What if His presence - His Word opened - what if it was enough?

God has clearly called and gifted some people in the church to teach his Word formally.

We learned that orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they’re not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes.

The bible informs us, compels us to care for the poor, to love the outcast, to serve the needy.

I was immersed in comfortable Christianity. Years ago, I found myself living what seemed like the American church dream - pastoring a large church, living in a large house, and surrounded by all the comforts this world has to offer. But inside I had a sinking feeling that I was missing the point.

That is relinquishing control in a culture that prioritizes control and doing what you need to do in order to advance yourself.