Not-So-Happy Mother's Day

Pentecost: Open to the Spirit

Pentecost is about far more than a strange moment in Acts 2 where people spoke in tongues. Pentecost is a massive convergence of Old Testament promises: a new and greater Sinai, the reversing of Babel, and the day the prophets longed for. And it is all initiated by the Spirit of God descending from heaven to dwell within His people—revealing that the gospel is about far more than simply going to heaven when we die. The Spirit desires to transform us, empower us, and partner with us in bringing heaven to earth right now—changing the way we understand salvation, kingdom, mission, and everyday life.

Stamped: Image, Kingdom, Allegiance

When Jesus was given the opportunity to publicly condemn one of the most corrupt governments in human history, He didn't go there. In fact, He almost seems dismissive. Holding a Roman tribute coin, He says: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s—and to God what belongs to God. Because Jesus recognized the greater danger is not merely living under a corrupt government—but giving that government an allegiance that belongs to King Jesus alone. You can hold that coin—as long as that coin is not holding you.

Not-So-Happy Mother's Day

Mother’s Day is not joyful for everyone. For many, it carries comparison, rejection, loneliness, disappointment, or the feeling of never quite being enough.   In Leah’s story, we discover a powerful truth: people may fail to see our worth—but Yahweh never does. And when our hearts finally awaken to the love, acceptance, and identity already offered to us in Christ, striving gives way to worship. “This time, I will praise the Lord.”

The Question Behind the Question

Jesus’ authority was never the real question—the response to it was. Most of us don’t lack clarity—we resist surrender. The call of discipleship is simple: say yes to the King and live under His authority.

Presence.

We can build structures. We can gather crowds. But without His presence—what do we really have? From the beginning, Jesus has been pursuing one thing: to dwell with His people. From the garden to the tabernacle to the temple to the cross to us—the story has always been the same. And today, because of the Spirit, His presence is here—with us.