“I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6 Each week in this series we’ll hear the story of someone at the Branch and how God is at work in their life. Their stories […]
The Church is not a building. The Church is you and me. The work of the Church (you and me) is to bring God’s Kingdom more fully present to the places we live, play, work and worship. And so, we believe strongly in the importance of being good neighbors. Sometimes we do that together (corporately) […]
Questions for Discussion (chapter 6) James Bryan Smith gives an insightful list of lies we often tell: Yes, I have read that book (or seen that movie). Yes, let’s definitely get together soon. He’s in a meeting. She’s not home. No, that outfit doesn’t make you look fat. Add to this list by brainstorming lies […]
There’s no podcast for this day because there was no sermon! Instead, we engaged in 4 prayer stations designed to help us take steps toward trusting God instead of worrying. Chapter 10 of The Good and Beautiful Life is a great place to start. Resources are listed below if you would like to engage in […]
Questions for Reflection from Chapter 4: The author opens the chapter with the author’s honest account of getting angry during a trip. What aspects of the author’s story can you relate to? The author gives us multiple “false imperative narratives” (FINs) (p. 73). Which FIN is most common in your life? How does it lead […]
Questions for reflection:1. How can you offer hospitality to someone this week (a coworker, a neighbor or someone you disagree with)?2. Review the section “Jesus’ Narrative: The Beatitudes Are Invitations of Inclusion,” on pp. 55-62 of The Good and Beautiful Life. How does the author’s interpretation resonate or differ from what you have been taught […]
Who is my first love? Do I spend my time as if God is my first love? “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” (Matthew 6:33)
