Upon an objective study of scripture and a deconstructing of doctrine based on tradition rather than the text, I find myself staring at an enormous parasite in the American Church: Nationalism. The idea that America is “God’s Nation” that the United States are somehow MORE blessed by the Most High than other cultures or countries DOES NOT come from Scripture, but rather American tradition.
Read MoreI will admit this, Love is not angers natural pathway. It takes work, effort, thought, energy, grace not only for yourself but for the people who are different than you. What if you saw the brokenness of others as a reflection of the brokenness in yourself? Instead of saying, “well racism only exists in them” but being willing to see how some of those implicit thoughts are reflected in yourself. In that moment of empathy are we are able to recognize the peaceful, loving path towards justice. See the humanity in EVERYONE. Even the ones spewing hate, ignorance or even downright lies.
Read MoreHow do we process the things that each of us bring to the table, especially around an explosive topic like the protests that a large group of our country are participating in. Regardless of what side of the protest line you stand on, I think we can all agree that it is our country given right to protest according to the first amendment. Where I believe the difference lies is in the reason people protest, and perhaps the method, though I would argue the last two major reason to protest were carried out in far more similar ways than people may realize.
Read MoreOur Black brothers and sisters are made in the image of God. Their lives matter. I pray that when we say “black lives matter” we will no longer be met with hostility but a resounding AMEN as people of every color, tribe, and lounge in the kingdom of God are willing to attribute value to others. To empathize with people who see differently. Who love their neighbors. Who partner with God in restoring our world.
Read MoreMy allegiance is not to America. My allegiance is to the kingdom of God, who calls me to care for the alien, the orphan, the widow. To fight for the oppressed and the marginalized. To DO justice to those who cry out for it. Give out mercy, and walk humbly with my God.
Read MoreI am sorry. I am part of the problem. I have knowingly and unknowingly wielded my privilege. I have not spoken up when I have seen blatant racism. I have implicit racist bias. I was born in a part of the country where I was not exposed to diversity, and the evil that is the “fear of other” lives in me.
Read MoreEver experienced those moments in life where, had you thought about how much work it was going to take to accomplish you just wouldn’t even try, but you didn’t think about it and it was one of your favorite memories? Explore with me why I want to give up “life hacking” and take the extra time to get messy and enjoy a fuller life.
Read More“I was instantly transported to an out of body experience where I watched the person that I formally knew as Trent slowly die.”
Read More“As I reflect in this moment I am reminded that often our heaviest emotions bring about the most fulfilling life change. I hope that this season of life is no different.”
Read More“As I dive into this day dream it starts to morph my feelings. I get jealous of the me in my daydream doing something different.”
Read More“I have been writing music/poems for most of my life, I would say that music/poetry has been one of the greatest tools for me personally to wrestle through depression, to experience life change, and even celebrate incredibly beautiful moments of my life.”
Read More“Sometimes the process of creating is more important than the product you create”
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