Rather than following the cultural norms of Lenten practices like giving up coffee or chocolate, I suggest that we look back at the past year, when all of us, and most every nation on the earth, found themselves drawn into the wilderness of a pandemic. At some level, we have all experienced some type of loss.
The Wilderness of Pain
February 28, 2021 • Matt Atkins
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Reconciliation through corporate repentance
July 12, 2020 • Matt Atkins
My ultimate hope is that we would allow God to shape our hearts in such a way that we take an honest look at what we are treasuring related to the inequalities in our country and get intentional about doing something about them. I also believe that Jesus’ prayer in John 17, actually reflects the heart of God for all of mankind. I believe that unity amidst diversity is a reflection of who God is, which is why Jesus wants humans to experience it and therefore prays for it. John 17:20-21 20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
Liberty Justice for ALL?
July 19, 2020 • Matt Atkins
Those of us who grew up in church, grew up hearing what the Bible says through the words of a parent, Sunday school teacher. Small group leader, pastor or whatever. Whether they or we, wanted it or not, we got a “slant” on the Bible and depending on our denominational or group emphasis, that slant could have either been helpful or hurtful in our own faith journey.
Am I my brothers keeper?
July 26, 2020 • Matt Atkins
When you look at the beautiful poetic opening of the Bible, you see a picture of the world that God intended. A garden where God walks with all of creation in the cool of the day, animals come to be named, vegetation, fish, birds and animals produce the food that is necessary, humans are living in harmony with each other free from shame or violence or competition.