Spiritual Growth, Christian Living, Wisdom, Identity
John Beeson
The Power of Ownership

One of the many disappointing realities about the American political landscape is the lack of ownership. It’s not just politicians who shirk ownership – we all do. When my microphone sounds wonky, my mind immediately goes to the sound tech wondering if he will remedy his mistake, not to the more likely responsible party: myself. I probably moved the microphone or pulled the cord.

Of course we know that avoiding ownership usually backfires. Our esteem falls for those who dodge responsibility. But even still, the temptation to blame shift is strong in all of us.

The Power of Ownership
Identity, Biblical Studies, Christian Living, Death, Spiritual Growth
John Beeson
Our Desires Lead to Death

“I am what I feel” sums up expressive individualism.  Our culture frames identity around discovering what our deepest desires and longings are. To know our longings is to know ourselves.

 

In Billie Eilish’s 2023 song “What was I made for?” written for “Barbie,” Eilish reflects on the confusing journey to understand her feelings. It’s this journey, she assures herself that will lead to her happiness.

Our Desires Lead to Death
Spiritual Growth, Christian Living, Forgiveness, Wisdom
John Beeson
A Dire Warning for Me? Where?

“The end is near!” “Repent!”

Have you ever seen a statement of prophetic warning spray-painted on a wall or in a subway station? got to be honest, I don’t take much notice to such warnings. But what if those warnings were for me and for you?

A Dire Warning for Me? Where?
Identity, Parenting
John Beeson
Do You Have a Graduate in Your Life?

We are feeling all the feels. Our youngest, Soren, is about to graduate from high school. This has been a season of reflection for Angel and me and a season of preparation. In our children’s ministry hallways at New Life next to each age level we have containers that represent how many days of influence remain for you as a parent before your child launches. I recognize, of course, that there is no finish line for parenting, but one’s influence and role changes significantly in each season.

 As we look back on our parenting, the most important things we taught our children were who God is and who they were.

Do You Have a Graduate in Your Life?
Fear, Identity, Prayer, Spiritual Growth
John Beeson
Exchanging Intrusive Thoughts for God-talk

Intrusive thoughts are unwelcome and hard to control. I can remember having intrusive thoughts from the time I was a child. When we drove, I often felt the compulsion to press one foot down on the floor between the telephone poles (and yes, I also hopped over the cracks in the sidewalk). At other times, when walking alone, I remember the persistent thought, “He’s watching you.” I would search the bushes and trees for the one my mind told me was watching me.

Exchanging Intrusive Thoughts for God-talk

How should a church reopen well from the pandemic?

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How to Return to Church

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How to Return to Church

This upcoming Sunday is our homecoming at New Life. We can’t wait to see you face to face!

COVID-19 has brought so many things into perspective. It has reminded us that the church is the people of God, not the place, nor even the gathering of his people (as good as the place may be and as important as gathering might be). It has reminded us that the church’s mission doesn’t ever hit pause. It has reminded us that God’s Word changes lives even when we’re apart. It has reminded us that worship is a day-in-day-out calling, not just a Sunday morning activity. It has reminded us what a powerful tool technology can be when harnessed for good. It has reminded us what a joy it is to be together. It has reminded us what a gift it is to hear one another’s voices as we sing.

As we have the blessing of being together in person again, let’s do so lovingly and prayerfully.

Here are 6 encouragements for us as we enjoy our homecoming this Sunday. As we return together, let’s:

1. Focus on God

Sunday is going to be strange. We will have the opportunity to reconnect with friends we haven’t seen in months. And God will delight in us being able to see one another. There will be plenty of distractions: tickets and no procedures and separated chairs. But let’s not let those things divert our attention from God. Our first call is to glorify and enjoy God. Let’s not let the distractions of a very different type of gathering divert our attention away from this high calling.

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