Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Matthew 20:20-28, Luke 6:31, Luke 22:24-27, Hebrews 6:10, Galatians 5:13, 1 Corinthians 10:23-33 & 1 Peter 4:11
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I don’t know when the last time you got a new job - but there’s so much “new” that comes with it. New buildings. New policies. New people. New supervisors. New schedule. New responsibilities. (Maybe even new pay!) In the beginning, God gave His people a job - be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth. Subdue it. In short, the job description was to continue this work of creation - making a new world. But those first people failed. Sinned. (Talk about a bad performance review.) And everything new became broken. Since then, God has been making this world (and everyone/everything in it) new again. God promised to send Jesus and when He did, Jesus started the job He will one day bring to completion - making all things new. Until then, God’s new creation (people created again in Jesus) are given a new job - continue this work of re-creation and re-newal. This new job would have new policies, though. It would be done in a new way, with new measures. This new world would come through '“made-new” people doing things in new ways. In God’s company, no one is racing to the top. Instead, it’s a race to the bottom through service and sacrifice. “Little people” wouldn’t be treated as tools to use or step on, but considered greater and shown love. Freedom isn’t used to get ahead, but to give a hand. We don’t build our own resume - we build others up. The bottom line isn’t what’s good for me, but the good of others. Today, you’ve been offered a new job with the Master making all things new. When do you start? Ask God for one way you can practically serve someone today. - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from John 5:24-29, John 10:7-10, 1 John 5:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 & Romans 13:8-14
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
A ministry of flourishing as John states begins when we accept Jesus as Savior. This simple act of belief grants us with the promise of eternal life. The enemy's agenda is to steal, kill and destroy; but Jesus has come that we experience life with fullness. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life.” (John 5:24 NLT). I’m so glad that as we put our belief in Jesus; we have victory over death, decay and sin. We become God’s new creation when we accept Jesus into our lives. This allows us to thrive despite trials and hardships. Christ within us is our hope of glory and in Him we find protection and provision. We have entered into a new covenant in which our inward man is being renewed day by day. Now let us live an abundant/fruitful life with renewed confidence in Him. Now concerning those who have died, Paul said in his letter to the church in Thessalonica that we don’t grieve as those who are without hope. When our loved ones who are in Christ perish, we can rest assured that they will be resurrected (I Thessalonians 4:13-18). I can remember my siblings and I finding great comfort in these very scriptures when my Mother passed away. In our daily living let us be mindful of Romans 13:8-14, which speaks of the day of salvation being soon to come. Also it speaks on Love fulfilling God’s requirements - if you love your neighbor as you love yourself, you will do your fellow man no harm. This is the ministry of flourishing.
Peace & Blessings! - Colleen Payton

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pick a Psalm to pray using P.R.A.Y. Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, & say Yes to Jesus.
Reading scripture in this way is called Lectio Divina. Learn more here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from 2 Corinthians 3:6, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, 2 Corinthians 6:1-10, Galatians 6:9-10 & 1 Peter 2:9
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Oh my goodness! I really hope you had an opportunity to soak in the meaning of these scriptures! There is so much encouragement and hope in these truths Paul laid out. Thousands of years before these letters, God told Adam and Eve of a future restoration of their relationship with Him in the Garden. He would not forget them or abandon them. Sin had entered the world and put a barrier between them and God. Then, each person would be born into the sin-made barrier. The consequence of their choice is handed down to each person. Yet, God had a plan to reconcile each person back to Him, eliminating the barrier caused by sin.

How often have you heard of an opportunity that seems too good to be true? At first, you’re excited; it’s unbelievable, and then you pause. This is too good to be true. What do I have to do before I can have this amazing thing? Many good things require work, money, or time. We have to give something of ourselves to get this amazing thing. Have you approached this topic of reconciliation with the same skepticism? A barrier-free relationship with the Most High God must require something of me. But the truth we have read here today is just the opposite: God has provided it all. It was His plan prior to creation. He knew we would sin against Him and reject Him, but He had a plan and started it all anyway. Jesus was always the vessel of reconciliation back to God. All we have to do is believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who died on the cross for our sins and came back to life on the third day. Today is the day to believe this and receive the gift of salvation and a renewed relationship with God.

But how? How do we live this new life? Through the same power that brought Jesus back to life, the power of the Holy Spirit living in each believer. We become a new creation with the decision to believe, and the Holy Spirit gives us the power and ability to live out this new life.

What is this new life? That will take all of eternity to discover, but Peter tells us right now, at the moment we believe, each of us becomes royalty and priests!! We are adopted into the family of God, making us royal, but we also become priests to declare and live out the gospel to everyone around us. This gift of God is too good to keep for ourselves. In 2 Peter 3:9, we read that God wishes that none should die, but all come to repentance. Each believer becomes a priest to participate in this plan to bring eternal life to everyone. What a privilege and honor to work alongside God in this way. Take some time to soak this in a bit today. - Renee Richter

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use one from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Matthew 24:1-14, Hebrews 11 & Hebrews 12:1-2
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Even if you are not an ice hockey fan, or an aficionado of Olympic history, chances are you have heard of “The Miracle on Ice”. On February 22, 1980 an outmatched, super-young team from the USA beat the highly favored Russian team to earn the right to advance and ultimately win the gold medal. It is one of the greatest underdog stories in all of sports. How did these inexperienced upstarts beat the superbly trained and extremely experienced veterans? FAITH. They believed it was possible and acted out of that belief. Their story has since been used by coaches, and other non-sports leaders, since that time to inspire teams to overcome adversity.
In Matthew 24, Jesus paints a picture for his disciples (and us) of the extreme adversity that his followers will face in the years to come. Deception, famine, earthquakes, persecution, and death are among the trials that will come before the end of this world. So how can we his followers overcome? FAITH. “At that time many will turn away from the faith…but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (NIV)
Like a fiery coach rallying his players facing a second half deficit, the writer of Hebrews uses a “Miracle on Ice” tactic to embolden the believers of his day (and us). He refers to great examples of faith from the past: Abraham, Noah, Moses, etc. He challenges us to be like this large cloud of witnesses; to throw aside the things that cause doubt and keep us from God, and to run with endurance the race set before us, no matter the hurdles we may face.
What trials are you facing? Do you believe God is powerful enough to help you overcome? Is there anything hindering you from trusting Him? Cast it aside, believe all things are possible with God, and act out of that belief. - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Ephesians 4:20-32, Ephesians 5:1-21 & Romans 6:5-14 & 23
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Take off the old self to put on the new self. Put away lying to speak the truth. Don’t steal but do honest work. No more foul language, instead speak what builds up and gives grace. Remove bitterness, anger, wrath, shouting, slander and malice to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. Especially in these winter months, we look ahead to the new life that light brings - for the grass, plants, flowers and trees but also to our souls. And yet, with more sun comes longer days and warmer temperatures. We take off the winter coats and boots. to put on shorts We put away the sleds and ice skates. Seasons show us that with the arrival of new comes the passing (or putting) away of the old. Summer comes, and winter goes. Or put another way, in order for summer to come, winter must go. The resurrection of Jesus was the dawn of a new day, the beginning of a new season that brings with it new life. The light has come! So, walk as children of the light. In other words, live in it! Put away the winter coat - it’s summertime! Like a child getting ready for school, take a moment to ask your loving Father what the temperature of your life is, and what “old” He might be inviting you to put away today in order to walk in the new. - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
It’s often helpful to look back before moving forward. As you begin a new week, look back over the last one and ask God to meet you in this new one. This kind of reflective prayer is called an Examen.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Colossians 3:1-11, Ephesians 2:1-10, 2 Corinthians 4:16, 2 Corinthians 5:14-17 & James 1:16-18
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Because of the great sacrifice Jesus made for us, we are no longer children of darkness, but children of light. In Colossians 3:1-11 Paul reminds us that we are a new creation in Christ. That we have the opportunity to start afresh, to put away our sinful nature and walk in the way of our Savior and Lord. “Seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God“ Verse 1. The word “seek” is present tense, which indicates continuing action. In other words, Paul is telling us to seek and to keep on seeking the things that are above. It is a lifetime quest. As a consequence of our new life in Christ, we need to lift our eyes from the dirt at our feet to focus on the stars above. We need to leave behind their concern of worldly things so that we might focus our concerns on “the things that are above.” Above, after all, is where Christ now lives and reigns—the same Christ with whom we were joined in baptism and resurrection. He is “seated on the right hand of God”—the place of greatest honor.

As we look at Ephesians 2:1-10 we are further instructed that because we were all dead in our sins and transgressions against God, but those who believe, have been made alive in Christ by God’s Grace, and for His glory.  It is a transformation that should shake our hearts and minds to our very core, to cherish God and to live our lives in a manner that would please Him. We need to live for Christ and not for ourselves.

I have run into people who knew me back in my middle to late 20s, during this period of my life I fell away from the Lord. Thankfully it didn't take long for Jesus to give me a huge dope slap and drive me to my knees, to turn my life around and back over to Him. These people think that they know me, but they know the old, dead, worldly me. Because of Jesus, and His great sacrifice I am a new creation in Him. My life now focuses on His desires and not my worldly desires. These people were thrown off by the fact that I was so involved with my church, a youth leader and an ordained member of the Presbyterian Church. I loved sharing that even the worst sinner has been redeemed by Jesus, proclaim your faith, be baptized and become a disciple of Christ. I thank Him daily for the abundance of blessings He has bestowed upon me and the future I have in Him. Is it easy every day to turn away from the desires of the world, not in the least. But, by focusing on His word and prayer, I inch my way through day by day. James 1:16-18, reminds us that the only source of good things in our life is--God Himself. All the good things in our lives ultimately come from God--we have not received them as gifts from ourselves or others. If it's good it's from God. Therefore let us be thankful daily, lift up our praise and show the world whom we worship and what an incredible God we serve.

Daily Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for this day, May the words from my lips, my actions and deeds, as well as my heart be pleasing to You today, in the name of Jesus my savior, I pray Amen. - Dawn Custer

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Romans 8:23, John 15:2, John 16:8-15 & Acts 2
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
“And we believers also groan [with all of creation], even though we have the Holy Spirit with us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us full rights as His adopted children (Sonship) into His Royal family, including the new bodies He has promised us”. (Rom 8:23 NLT).
In our future glory we will be resurrected with glorified bodies like the body our Lord Jesus Christ has in heaven. “Yet, what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later”. (Rom 8:18 NLT). We do have the “foretaste”, the first installment or downpayment, of the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our future resurrection life. The work of the Holy Spirit in the new creation, our sanctification and glorification is a process that is occurring in our lives now, even though we do not see it with our natural eyes. Jesus is the true vine, the Father is the gardener and the Holy Spirit is the pruner; He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it (the believers-branches) will be even more fruitful. Jesus makes the distinction of two kinds of pruning: (1) cutting off branches and (2) cutting back branches. Fruitful branches are cut back to promote growth. The Father will cut back things, flaws or habits in our character and that was stunting spiritual growth and at the same time making us more conducive to abundant fruitfulness. But branches that don’t bear fruit are cut off at the trunk not only because they are fruitless but also  they can infect the rest of the plant. So let us yield to the Father’s pruning process,  although it's difficult and painful, “we will bring glory to the Father when we bear much fruit, showing ourselves to be His disciples” (John 15 1-2,8 (NIV). Let us be mindful that we all are under “Divine Construction” the Holy Spirit is still at work in us in new creation. “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day”. (2 Cor 4:16). The process of sanctification and glorification is administered by the Spirit of the living God and is conforming us into the image of His Son. The Holy Spirit is God’s guarantee of what will come. His ministry in our lives today certifies us that the transformation renovation for our new bodies will be thoroughly completed when we see Christ face-to-face. The Holy Spirit is like the foreman at the construction site (in the believers) each time He reminds you of Scriptures, prompts you to love, show areas we need to repent, to walk in forgiveness, pray for others even for our enemies, we are experiencing His Holy presence. Whether you deal with aches, pains, and even disabling limitations, trust God that He is in the process of renovating and renewing our body and soul for our future resurrected and glorified bodies. - Lawrence Payton

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pick a Psalm to pray using P.R.A.Y. Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, & say Yes to Jesus.
Reading scripture in this way is called Lectio Divina. Learn more here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from John 20:19-29, Luke 24:36-43, 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 & 1 John 3:2
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
If you take each of these scriptures in today's reading separately, they are each wonderful and inspiring. As you read them all - allow God to paint the beautiful picture for you that he weaved throughout them. Jesus went to the cross for us, to pay the penalty for our sins, so that we could have a relationship with the Father. Not only that, when Jesus rose from the dead, he was given a new body - a heavenly body. You can see in the scripture accounts in John and Luke that his new body had some similarities to his earthly body, but also was different. His new body wasn't like a ghost, and it was clearly something that his followers had never seen before. I love in 1 Corinthians 15:36 where it says "What you sow does not come to life unless it dies." This is so counter-cultural to us, as in order for us to truly live, we would never consider dying. In our world, death is the end - it's the finality of everything. But in the Kingdom, Jesus shows us that death brings life. He shows us that through his new heavenly body and his new heavenly life. It can be so, so hard in our everyday lives to remember that our lives here on earth are NOT everything there is. That our lives in heaven will actually outlast our lives here. That doesn't mean that our lives here aren't important. God is using our earthly lives and earthly bodies to prepare us for our heavenly life. Jesus didn't just come to get us out of hell and into heaven when we die! In 2 Corinthians 5:17, it says "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." It doesn't say "If anyone is in Christ, they will be a new creation in heaven." Those in Christ are a new creation - now. Yes, God is still at work in us throughout our lives- making us more like Jesus. But he doesn't wait until heaven to call us a new creation. Our heavenly life will be the culmination of all God wants to do in us. We will be like him - because we will see him as He is (1 John 3:2). It's because of all of this that we can truly say, "O death where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" - Gwyn Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use one from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:1-26, Philippians 3:20-21, 1 Peter 1:3 & Psalm 71:20
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
If I won the Mega Millions jackpot, I can’t imagine how a day could go by that I wouldn’t think about it. I am pretty sure that at some point of time on literally ever subsequent day of my life something would trigger me to say: “oh yeah…I won the Lotto.” Furthermore, winning millions of dollars would be a life altering event. The trajectory of a lotto winner’s life is forever changed the moment they win. We can debate whether that change is for the better (or very worse), but we all must agree that their time management, work, relationships, spending, and focus would shift.
Well something WAY better than winning a few million bucks has happened to each and every one of us. Read again what Peter said: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Because of Jesus’ death and RESURRECTION, our ETERNAL state has changed from death and separation to life and inclusion. When death comes for us, and it will (no amount of money can stop it), it can not hold us. We will be RESURRECTED because we follow Jesus. This is the most amazing thing that could happen to us!
Yet…many of us don’t think about this truth every day. And despite the enormity of the event that was the resurrection of Jesus, it has not changed the trajectory of our lives. Let’s change that! Join me today in praying that we would have a deeper acceptance/understanding of what Jesus did for us., and that out of that we would have a necessary shift in our time management, work, relationships, spending, and focus.
Thank you Jesus!!! - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Matthew 13:1-57 & Luke 16:14-17
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I’m sure you’ve heard the words before - good “news.” You may have even heard it so often that it’s stopped being news at all. Perhaps it’s “old news.” But here’s the thing about news - it is by definition “new.” News presents new facts. It paints a new picture, a new vision of reality. It brings new implications, and possibilities. When Jesus preached, His message of the new world - or “God’s Kingdom” - that was breaking in was a new teaching… it was news! Whether or not that news was “good” was up to the hearer to decide. That’s why Jesus would often put his new teachings in stories or illustrations called “parables.” They were his vehicle for delivering good news to people who were in need of some and looking for it. In order to receive this news as “good,” a few things were required. First, Jesus says that the people who receive this news as good will be those with new hearts, or soil, where it will be received and flourished. Is there anything that is crowding out or keeping Jesus’ teachings from being “news” to your heart today? Jesus told stories about the way faith might look in people’s lives, the timeline of growth, and even the amount of faith a person needed - all news to his hearers. Is it GOOD news to you today? Jesus’ news invited his hearers to a new valuation of God’s kingdom. Is that news today? Is it good? And finally, Jesus said this news would appeal to all kinds of different (new) people. So, what’s new today? - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
It’s often helpful to look back before moving forward. As you begin a new week, look back over the last one and ask God to meet you in this new one. This kind of reflective prayer is called an Examen.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Luke 4:16-30, Luke 17:20-25, Mark 1:15, Matthew 10:1-15, John 18:36 & Matthew 28:18-20
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
”Once upon a time in a far away land...” These are the opening words to so many fairy tales. They’re the kind of words many of us might use to describe the new reality of heaven. We’re familiar with the concept of God making all things new someday in heaven… but that’s a long time away, in a land far, far away… right? Kind of. In today’s reading (and throughout Scripture), Jesus talks of this new, heavenly reality called “The Kingdom of God” that is invading earth in the “here” and “now.” Jesus starts out by saying that this day that people were looking forward to, that a Messiah would bring, wasn’t just “someday” in a “spiritual” place… it was being fulfilled that day. Jesus said that this new “kingdom of God” was actually available and “in our midst,” even though we can’t see it and it isn’t “of this world.” He said the new kingdom of God wasn’t far off, but had come near. And that, in it, there was healing, life, cleansing, and freedom available. How do we enter into it? By repenting (changing our minds) and believing (changing our actions). By being baptized (a symbol of our rebirth into this new, available-now kingdom) and being discipled - taught to obey. God’s kingdom is a right here, right now reality in which all things are being made new. Enter into it today through faith and obedience! And one day, what we see and know in part will be fully realized in heaven. Stop and go over those “kingdom questions” again, specifically what new kingdom reality God might be inviting you into through obedience to His Word today. - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Colossians 1:15-20, John 11:1-4&14, Matthew 1:18-23, John 14:1-11 & Philippians 2:5-11
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Our God - the God who has all power and understanding - calls you by name, and is calling you into newness everyday. God spoke, and creation was made. Jesus spoke, and people were brought back to life. Jesus healed so many people in Scripture with the power in His Words. There are so many more scriptures that I think point out the power in The Word, and in what is spoken. Having that kind of power over everything is incomprehensible. Yet Jesus, who had it, came here to serve, and be in close relationship with people.
”Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited.“ - Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭
I am very thankful that I am not God. Maybe that sounds strange to say out loud, but it’s true. Imagine if all things were known. All seen and unseen. All motivations and reasoning were out in the open for all to know. And yet, as much as I don’t want that power, I can think of countless times that I’ve tried to be in control - even over things I can’t control. Scripture tells us we are fighting against powers and principalities… but the enemy (Satan) does not have power to create life. There is no life or newness in anything the enemy brings. The good news is that Jesus loves us, and is with us through all things. He uses the unlikely and the Ill-equipped because He can. I encourage you to open up the Word today, and ask God what power, knowledge, and newness He has for you in the things that are beyond your control. - Rachel Hood

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pick a Psalm to pray using P.R.A.Y. Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, & say Yes to Jesus.
Reading scripture in this way is called Lectio Divina. Learn more here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Matthew 6:9-13, Luke 11:5-13 & Matthew 13:44-46
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
On Earth as it is in Heaven…Wow. To imagine the reality of what it would be like if earth was like heaven, especially in today’s world. I immediately feel hope, wonder, peace, and JOY. I know every single one of us longs for all of those feelings or realities. It seems far off when we only look at what our naked eye can see. But what if those attributes of heaven were possible to be experienced right now, right here. I know each of us at some point in our life have experienced joy, peace, hope, majesty, wonder, the list goes on. And that’s because when Jesus was born God gave us him to bring redemption and restoration once and for all. Jesus can and does make all things new. But how do we practically experience pieces of that? Matthew 6:9-13 teaches us how to ask for that and how to experience it. We honor God as our set apart King, we ask for his kingdom to come here to earth, for HIS will to be done just as it is in heaven, to give us all that we need to sustain us for today, to forgive us, but then our part of action comes…”as we forgive those who have sinned against us”. I’m gonna stop here for a second because most of this prayer in Matthew is asking God to do what only he can do but it’s by no mistake that we also play a part in bringing restoration to our earthly circumstances. When we forgive someone who has wrongfully hurt us we experience heaven. We experience peace, hope, joy, faith, etc. we experience things being made new. And lastly we ask to be protected from the evil one and not to be lead into temptation. Practice this prayer today. Practice repentance and forgiving someone who has hurt you. I bet you’ll begin to experience heaven here on earth in those moments. - Cecelia Thapa

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use one from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 11:1-9, Deuteronomy 32:8, Revelation 5:8-9, Revelation 7:9, Revelation 15:1-5 & Revelation 21:24&26
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Whenever I heard the “Tower of Babel” story as a kid (Genesis 11), I had a certain picture in my head when I heard the verse: “If they have begun to do this as one people all having the same language, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them.” It was a picture of a nervous God worrying that the humans might build a tower tall enough to reach the clouds and find him. When I got older the picture got more sophisticated as I focused on the word “nothing” and thought beyond a tower to what if we built space ships that could go the edge of the universe or better microscopes that could unlock subatomic explanations for creation. NOW when I read this, my focus is on the words: “they plan”. I feel like by confusing languages God was mercifully trying to shift our focus from making our own plans and relying on each other to execute them; to seeking God’s plans and NEEDING HIM to execute them. We definitely find ourselves more reliant on God when the world can’t give us cohesive answers. Even though our world is “smaller” than ever thanks to the internet, cell phones, and apps like Google translate, it doesn’t feel like people are getting more onto the same page. Instead of trying to standardize onto common human ideologies and strategies, I think we may be better off staying more localized in our focus, embracing our differences, but acknowledging God’s authority and leadership within our separate contexts.
There will be a time to come together in one city and with a common voice say: “For you alone are holy. All the nations will come and worship before you because your righteous acts have been revealed.” But that will be a city of God’s making and at a time of his choosing.
God wants us to find him, he just knows that man-made plans will have us finding something else. Let’s seek his plans, and then we will find him.
- Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 3:8-10 & 22-24, Isaiah 40:3-11, Revelation 5:11-14, Revelation 21:3, 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 & Revelation 22:4&17
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Today isn’t just any Monday - it’s the day we’ve set aside as a nation, in all our imperfection and incompletion, to remember and celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Perhaps his most well-known speech the one he gave in August of 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, entitled “I Have a Dream.” In it, of course, he outlines a vision for the future of our country in which the true meaning of “all men created equal” would be fully realized. He says, “This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with new meaning: My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrims' pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring. And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true.” Become true. In that phrase, MLK affirms that this is in fact true in theory, and yet it is not yet fully true in reality. In doing so, he speaks what is known as '“prophetically” throughout Scripture. God himself gives a vision for a new future in Genesis 3 - a world that is more “true” than the one we currently experience, but not yet fully or truly realized. Isaiah and John the Baptizer did the same in reference to Jesus. John does it again in Revelation, giving vision for a new, true world that is breaking into ours - God’s kingdom. This is what prophets do - speak God’s Words and give vision for a world where they are true, while also painting a picture of the consequences of choosing not to obey. Today, God’s kingdom - a newer and truer vision of the future - is available by grace through faith as we follow Jesus. How will you live into God’s dream coming true for your life and our world, and point others to the Truth today too? - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
It’s often helpful to look back before moving forward. As you begin a new week, look back over the last one and ask God to meet you in this new one. This kind of reflective prayer is called an Examen.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 2:18-25, Genesis 3:7, 10-12, 16-23, Revelation 7:10-17 & Revelation 19:4-10
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Throughout the month of December, there’s a common refrain you’ll hear from both kids and adults alike. As we’re taking inventory, flipping through the pages of a catalog, watching the advertisements, or making a list, we see something “new” and tell ourselves, “I need that.” We’ve all been guilty of it. On the other hand, we need to develop discernment in what is a “need” and what is simply a “desire.” And yet on the other, it’s been correctly said that necessity is the mother of invention. There is something about true need that drives provision. There’s a problem that must be solved, a void that must be filled, so something new must be created or acquired. As we read God’s promise in Genesis, part of “making all things new” is God providing for our every need abundantly. In the Garden, God abundantly provides His creation with a place to live and so much food to eat that Wonka’s Chocolate Factory would have been put to shame. God provided people - a community - to enjoy it with. To be in relationship with, to love and be loved by. In the beginning, there was no such thing as need. Think about that. Adam and Eve walked with God in perfect relationship with Him - and life was abundantly full. It was only after the fall that “need” entered the world. And humanity has spent the rest of history trying to meet our needs apart from God, only to find emptiness, lack, and unfulfillment. Because we’re human in a fallen world, we have needs. Physical. Emotional. Relational. Spiritual. Here’s the question… Who or What are you looking to for fulfillment, and How?
God promised to make everything new in Jesus, and that means fulfilling our every need abundantly. God meets our every need in Jesus. In Him, there is no emptiness, lack, or unfulfillment. There is joy, abundance, and fullness. In Jesus, God provides covering for our sin and shame. God provides forgiveness. God provides salvation. God even meets needs in the consequences of our own sin - removal from the Garden was actually part of God’s provision for the people He loved! But God also promises future deliverance from the consequences of our sin. One day, God would provide Jesus, who would undo the curse, make things “new” again and, in doing so, meet every need. Need is not part of God’s creation or intention. Go to Him today and find abundant provision, fulfillment, and new life. - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pray through a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 4:-1-11, Genesis 5:3-31, Genesis 6:3, Revelation 21:6, & Revelation 22:1-2
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
“When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Probably not something I would share with someone new to their faith. I had been on my Christian walk for a while before I understood and could get behind this idea. I wasn’t sure I was ready to die for something I didn’t really understand. The death he is talking about is the death of our sinful self to make room for a new life with Christ. When Christ calls us, he is asking us to put aside our old ways and life to make room for a new life walking in the good news.

On New Year’s Day, a friend of mine blessed me with the opportunity to help serve dinner to the homeless at his church. After all of our guests had been served, I grabbed a plate of food and sat down at one of the tables. I started talking with the guy next to me about going to church. He told me he didn’t go to church because he was homeless and living in a shelter. I asked why that was keeping him from going to church and he couldn’t really answer me. He did say that he wasn’t sure that God would forgive him for his past, and that he kept going back and doing the same things. I reminded him that Jesus died on the cross to earn us forgiveness for our sins - even though he knew we were going to make mistakes in our walk with Him. I told him that because of Jesus’ resurrection, we have a call to let the old self die and the power to start a new life in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether it's a call to leave home and follow him like the disciples or leave an old life behind like my friend above, Jesus’ call requires us to let our old selves die so that we can be reborn into the kingdom of God. This death and rebirth makes room in us for our call, whatever that may be. Our walk toward and into the Kingdom isn’t easy but the blessings we receive make the journey worth it. Bonhoeffer also wrote “Only the man who is dead to his own will can follow Christ.” Lord help me set my will aside and begin a new life in you, Amen. God Loves You and So Do I. - Scott Rose

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Pick a Psalm to pray using P.R.A.Y. Pause to be still, Reflect on the verses, Ask God for help, & say Yes to Jesus.
Reading scripture in this way is called Lectio Divina. Learn more here and practice using one of these apps.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 2:8-9 & 15-17, Genesis 3:1-6 & 22, Genesis 6:5-6, Psalm 6:6, Psalm 39:12, Revelation 21:4-6 & Revelation 22:1-3
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Healing is something that is only needed or desired when there has been an injury or pain that has caused suffering. The idea of needing healing was something that was non-existent in the Garden of Eden before the fall. God had created a beautiful garden and placed Adam and Eve to live in it and gave them dominion and the charge to care for what He had created. Only two trees are named in the Bible - the Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil - and only 1 was forbidden for them to eat from. There was no need for them to eat from the Tree of Life because there had been no sin. They essentially would have lived forever as the penalty for sin is death. So, of course, they were tempted by Satan to eat from the one they were told not to resulting in the first act of sin and the entrance of sin into the world. Sin is ugly and causes pain, brokenness and suffering. Death would now be the penalty for all of our sin. Suffering became a part of man’s everyday life when it had been prior to this. We now needed saving, rescuing - a healing of this sickness of sin and disobedience. Adam and Eve had to leave the Garden so they wouldn’t eat from the Tree of Life and live forever which at first may seem like a heartless act but as I read more into this passage I came to see the mercy and kindness of God that would prevent us from living eternally in a broken world and perpetual cycle of pain and suffering in these mortal bodies. He had a plan from the very beginning to break the curse of sin and death giving us a new bodies in an eternal state with Him being able to partake from the Trees of Life in Heaven that will continually heal us as He wipes away every tear form our eyes and removes pain and sorrow far from us. These things are trustworthy and true!!

I can relate to the Psalmist as he describes soaking his bed with tears and crying for God to see and remember him. Many of you have probably cried enough tears in one night to wet a pillow. I remember when I was a teenager and my relationship with God had become very real and I was beginning to walk closely with Him. My mom had chronic illness that caused a lot of pain and other difficulties. I would literally cry so many tears at night crying out to God to heal her and take away her pain and suffering. When she passed last year, God comforted me with these verses in Revelation of now removing every pain - her tears and sorrow were no more and mine one day would also be gone. I know I’m not alone either in personal suffering or seeing someone else you love dearly suffer. I know God heals and performs miracles - sometimes this miraculous healing is on this side of heaven and sometimes it’s in His presence. God, who is called Alpha & Omega, the Beginning & the End, has always existed and was there from our very beginning and will be there till the end. He is the one who supplies our healing and fullness of life making all things new. One day it will all be finished. My prayer for myself and our church family today is that our hearts would have faith to trust God and believe that what He has said about the future, the curse He has freed us from and the hope of Heaven He has called us to would be something we can confidently say is ‘trustworthy and true’ giving us hope and comfort in the kids of suffering for the beautiful healing that is coming. - Jessica Glenn

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Practice hearing from God by asking questions like, “Father, what do you want me to know about you?” or “Father, what do you want to say about your love for me?” Simply be still and listen, or journal anything that comes to mind. Learn more about hearing from God using the Tending Your Heart guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use one from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 1:26-30, Psalm 8, Romans 8:16-17, 2 Timothy 2:11-13, Revelation 5:10, Revelation 20:4-6 & Revelation 21:7-8
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
”Who am I?”
“Why am I here?”
Man has been asking himself these questions for thousands of years. The questions are often tied to a philosophical search for purpose, and many have come up empty. The problem is the answers are not philosophical, but historical. We have the answers! They are in God’s Word, the Bible; many of which we read today.
”Who are we?” - We are beings intentionally created by God, in his image. Furthermore, we are his children and heirs to his kingdom.
”Why are we here?” - While living in physical flesh, we are made to rule over and care for the physical universe God made for us. When our flesh fails, our spirit will be with God and able to praise and serve him directly.

What did you see in today’s readings? Share your thoughts or questions in the Forum (see link below). - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!

Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Genesis 1:3-25, Romans 8:19-22 & Revelation 21:1-2, 5, 9-27
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Today we read the words that Jesus claims for himself - the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. In Genesis, God creates the world and everything in it. And God repeatedly says that His creation is “good.” And yet, when we fast forward from the garden to the city in Revelation, I can’t help but think that somehow this is even better. We typically think of new as a starting point. In our limited understanding of how “newness” works, things begin new and go downhill from there. They get used and less valuable. But somehow God seems to work in the opposite. In the beginning, God makes everything and gives people a “mandate” to be fruitful and multiply, to continue God’s work of creating and ruling with Him on the earth. What was lost in the first “Adam” is not only restored in the second (Jesus), but it seems that what God sets into motion is even better. We’re not going back to good - we’re moving forward to new. Today as you read, find hope in this glorious portrait of the future in God’s kingdom. You don’t have to go back to good. God’s not simply “undoing” your past… in Jesus, God is redeeming your future. Jesus is making all things better. New lies ahead. The best is yet to come. Look forward with eager anticipation, as Romans 8:19-22 says, through the pain and the struggle to the glorious, free “new” day ahead. In Jesus, you are a new creation, and today is a new day. - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
It’s often helpful to look back before moving forward. As you begin a new week, look back over the last one and ask God to meet you in this new one. This kind of reflective prayer is called an Examen.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!