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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Choose one of the Names of God using this guide. Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it today, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 11:55-12:36 & Isaiah 61:1-3
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Have you ever taken the time to look back on an event or season in your life? I appreciate reliving moments in my life, moments of joy, and even moments of struggle. Looking back, I can celebrate those beautiful times again and even celebrate when looking at the struggle because, in those moments of struggle, I can see how Jesus brought me through the event and met me there. Sometimes, I can even find the answers to my questions during the struggle, not realizing Jesus had not only listened to my many questions but also brought understanding as I journeyed with Him to the end. I hope you have caught on to the fact that this Daily Focus has us looking backward in John. When John had partnered with Holy Spirit, who now resides within each believer, to write this letter, Jesus had already ascended to heaven. As John remembers these events, he is looking back with new eyes and a mind enlightened by Holy Spirit, who helps him understand those events that brought so many questions while he lived through them. Can you imagine how puzzled Andrew and Philip must have been when their request for a “meet and greet” between Jesus and the Greeks visiting for Passover turned into a discussion of His death and glorification? But looking back on the moment with Spirit-enlightened minds, we understand Jesus’s urgency to tell anyone who will listen that He is the resurrection and the life. He is the Light of the world, illuminating the path to the Father and eternal life with Him. John subtly eludes that the people came for a show. They wanted Jesus to perform another miracle, maybe even a resurrection from the dead. They had traveled far for this show. But Jesus explains that He will be resurrected to bring much fruit and life, just as the seed planted and dying brings life. The Father says, “I have glorified Your name, and I will do it again.” Jesus says these things, leaving the people asking more questions, and then hides Himself, offering no more explanation. For some, the answers don’t come until, looking back with the eyes of Holy Spirit, the actual understanding comes. Friends, take some time this morning to look back on this passage that has so many nuggets of truth and ask Holy Spirit for the understanding He has for you this morning. Or, like John, look back on an event or season in your life, seeing it with fresh eyes empowered by the Holy Spirit’s understanding so that you might see Jesus more clearly. - Renee Richter

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 12:37-50 & Isaiah 53:1-6
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
”…for they loved human praise more than praise from God.” (Jn 12:43) Ouch! John shares that there were Jewish leaders who believed Jesus was the Messiah, and yet would not acknowledge him as such for fear of being put out of the synagogue. Granted, being put out of the synagogue was no small thing. We are talking loss of job, community, and social acceptance. However, Jesus was recorded (Mt 10:32-33) as saying that whoever acknowledges him before others will be acknowledged by Jesus before the Father in heaven, but whoever disowns Jesus before others will be disowned by Jesus before the Father. Double ouch!! The leaders of Jesus’ day had a conundrum. Do they maintain their earthly status and risk future standing with God…or risk earthly status but secure their eternal future? This doesn’t sound like a tough choice at all when you’re on the outside looking in.
So let’s get real and apply this to our lives…
Are we acknowledging Jesus before others? Are there times and places where we could/should share our faith, yet we don’t? Are there certain people or situations that carry potential consequences should we acknowledge our love for Jesus? Maybe in our family? Our job? A friendship? What’s at stake? What’s our “synagogue”? What might happen if we proclaim we are among the millions in this world who call Jesus their Lord? Might we lose a friend, someone’s respect, a job…yep. Me might.
But…
We may gain an opportunity to be a witness to someone who desperately needs a savior (#everyone). We might get to be part of a story of redemption, just like someone in our past was a part of our story. We might strengthen a friendship, redeem a family member, or be in a position to be blessed by a better job. A lot MIGHT happen, but remember if we acknowledge Jesus before others we WILL be acknowledged by Jesus before God the Father. That is a lock.
Gut check: Do we love human acceptance/praise more than God’s? Hopefully the answer is “no”. Then let’s be ready for a chance to proclaim Jesus to someone TODAY.
- Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer this morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 13, Philippians 2:5-11 & Mark 10:45
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
If there is one common thread that runs throughout not only every one of the passages we read today - but through every word and action throughout Jesus’ entire life - what do you think it might be? For me, in a word, it’s humility. Everything starts and ends with humility for Jesus. In John 13, Jesus washes His disciples' feet, leading by serving. In doing so, He teaches us that true greatness comes from serving others with love and humility. It's a powerful reminder that we should follow His example and serve one another humbly. Philippians 2:5-11 encourages us to have the same mindset as Christ, who humbled Himself and became obedient to death on a cross. Again, we see the selfless love and sacrifice of Jesus, humbly considering others above ourselves. Lastly, Mark 10:45 reminds us that Jesus came not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. His life was a perfect example of sacrificial love and humble service. It may be simple, but it isn’t easy. How can we follow Jesus by imitating His humility and servant heart today? Who can you serve with love, putting their needs before your own, just as Jesus did for us? It’s like Jesus said: a servant is not greater than their master. We follow a humble, servant leader. May our lives too be marked by the same loving “markings” of our master - service and humility. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.
Submit a Prayer Request or pray with others at the House of Prayer at Paradox every Sunday at 9:00am.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 11:1-44 & Ezekiel 37:1-14
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
When I read John 11: 1-44, the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, then reading Ezekiel 37: 1-14, of Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones coming alive again, I could not stop thinking about Crowder’s new song, “Grave Robber.” The meaning I always gleaned from the story in John was that just like Martha and Mary, God does not always act when, where or how we feel He should act. But He will act, as He sees fit, in His time, and for His glory. Reminding us that even death does not have the final word. The day of the resurrection is coming, and we will be called home to live for eternity in the presence of the Lord. Ezekiel’s vision also reminded me of that message. For when the Lord is ready, those who have gone on before us will be raised again, and made brand new, to live on in the glory of God. But after listening to Crowder’s new song, I have a new perspective on these verses. This song starts out with Crowder singing that he was a rebel who never behaved. He thought that he was past redemption, but then he sings these lyrics “ Thought a wretch like me couldn’t ever be saved. But everything changed, I remember the day when I heard Him calling my name.”   Just as Jesus stood outside Lazarus’s tomb and called his name, Jesus does the same for us. We may not think we are worthy of redemption as well. We may feel that we are buried by our sin, but the great news is that Jesus paid the price for us. This thought has been running through my head lately, like I said, especially after hearing this song. I can honestly say that if you knew me 50 years ago, and think you know me now, guess again. I am not that same girl, for you see, I heard Him calling my name! I was saved by that grave robber, my sin no longer buries me. Because “Like a thief in the night He snuck in took my life, I was dead now I’m alive and singing. “I got stolen by the grave robber, picked me up from that rock bottom, washed my soul in the Holy water, brought me back to life.“ I am that one sinner who was saved by amazing grace, you can be too. - Dawn Custer

*If you’re trusting Jesus as your Way for the first time or deciding all over again who Jesus is to you, we invite you to be baptized at Paradox on Sunday.

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 14, Matthew 11:25-27 & Hebrews 10:19-22
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Today’s passages of Scriptures reveal that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Treasure Map to God the Father, Heaven and Eternal life. In John 14: 1-3, the disciples were anxious and disturbed about death, and what happens afterwards. Jesus’s words still comfort and reassure us today.  In verse 4 of John 14, Jesus says, “And you know the way to where I am going.” (NLT). Thomas spoke up in verse 5, “No, we don’t know, Lord. We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (NLT). This simple, yet powerful Scripture opens the door for doubters and skeptics to come to Jesus. Then Jesus responded to Thomas and said, “I Am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me. Now take a moment and absorb these eternal truths. Jesus did not say that He was “a'' way meaning that there is another way, route, path, alternative, or belief systems. No, Jesus made Himself abundantly clear; that He is the one and only way to God the Father. And this is why some people resent or reject Christianity because they think it is too exclusive and too narrow minded. In fact, the way is wide enough for the whole world to enter into eternal life providing that everyone would receive and accept Jesus by faith. Jesus as the Truth, He is the reality of all God’s promises. Jesus provides certainty to people whose lives seem confused and unstable, both now and eternally. Jesus as the Life, He is the giver and sustainer of “Zoe” the God-kind of Life, Abundant Life, Everlasting Life, and Eternal Life to all who will receive Jesus by faith and trust in Him alone. Then again, in Matthew 11:27, Jesus made a very profound statement, “My Father has entrusted everything to Me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him (the Father).” (NLT). The only way to truly know God the Father, one must first come to Jesus, the Son of the Father and then Jesus will disclose, unveil, and reveal Him. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is already at work in the Church (body of believers) and in the world to lead us into all truth (Jesus). Something to think and reflect on: How do Jesus' promise of a  place in His Father’s  house provide comfort for you in your current circumstance?  How can you apply the promise of the Holy Spirit to help navigate your spiritual and personal challenges? How does Jesus’ assurance of His unity to the Father deepen your understanding of His divinity? - Lawrence Payton

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Choose one of the Names of God using this guide. Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it today, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 15 & Philippians 1:9-11
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
John 15 has held a special place in my heart for a long time - in a lot of ways it’s become like a life word from God about what life is like walking with Jesus. Anytime I feel like I am uncertain, Holy Spirit usually brings me back here, back to remember who God is, what He does, and what I am to do. My kids use the NIRV version of the Bible, and sometimes I will read scripture in that because the simplicity of the way it’s written is so helpful to me. Verse 4 reads: “Remain joined to me, just as I also remain joined to you. No branch can bear fruit by itself. It must remain joined to the vine. In the same way, you can’t bear fruit unless you remain joined to me.”
So often in the Christian life , we think that we are supposed to produce/accomplish a lot for the kingdom. This text is so clear that it’s actually the work of Jesus IN US, as we remain joined to him, that produces the fruit. We can’t do it unless we are joined to Him! This doesn’t mean that we don’t do anything but spend time with God… it does mean that as we go throughout our lives, we are remaining in Jesus and relying on Holy Spirit to show us what to do and how to do it. We take the steps he shows us to take- we don’t sit by passively - we join him in what he is already doing. It’s doing the work WITH him, instead of FOR him. This is a lifelong journey of learning how to do this. Some moments, I feel like I am right in step with him, following his lead and working together. Other moments, I realize that I sat by passively and didn’t join him in what he was doing. Sometimes I realize that I am exhausted and like I am running on the hamster wheel through life - and God shows me that I have been trying to do it all on my own (and sometimes that I am doing things outside of what he’s invited me in to.) In Philippians, Paul is praying some really beautiful things for the church. The only way for these things to happen is for us to do what John 15 says. Remain in Him. Rely on him. Join him in what he is already doing. Does this mean we will do it perfectly? Nope. But we keep on going back to him, even when we have walked away. Holy Spirit- help me to remain in you today. Jesus, show me where you are and how I can join you in what you’re doing. Father, help me to rely on you, and not try to do it all on my own. - Gwyn Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 16 & Romans 8:12-17
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
The other night I was driving home from Ann Arbor and I got stuck for over one hour in traffic as there was an accident in the construction zone on 696. This would not have happened to my wife, April. Even when she knows where she is going and how to get there, she activates her GPS app just in case there is some construction or an accident that would make another route more advantageous. I nearly always choose to wing it, and some times I pay dearly for that choice.
For years, Jesus’ disciples followed him…literally. Day by day they would go where he went and did exactly as he, their teacher, instructed. It was as if he was their chauffeur on the road of life. In today’s reading, Jesus tells them that he will soon be leaving them, but not to worry. For when he goes, another will come. Not another chauffeur, but something better…a GPS, or sorts, in the person of the Holy Spirit. Now instead of 12 guys following God in a singular direction, they can split up and go in several, still being navigated by God himself.
And unlike the Global Positioning Systems that we use, where we input a desired destination, the Holy Spirit is able and very willing to “guide us into all truth”, showing us which destinations and paths to get there are most ultimately advantageous for us. If we want to follow Jesus, we HAVE TO use God’s Positioning Spirit, allowing him to set the course and navigate us turn by turn. When we do, God leads us closer to himself. For as Paul said in Romans: “all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God…heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.”
Don’t wing it and spend your time idle, or headed for a dead end. Pray, and ask Jesus to send you his GPS today!
- Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer this morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 17
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
It’s April, and you know what they say… “April showers bring May flowers.” But showers also bring something else - the opportunity to see rainbows. Every time I see one, I try to stop, if only for a moment, to appreciate its beauty and remember the God who put it there. But have you ever stopped to think about what is happening scientifically when we see a rainbow? In a way, water in the air “separates” and allows us to see all the different light waves (and colors) that are unified and present in the light. That’s the kind of unity Jesus prayed that His followers, the Church, would have in verse 21. Jesus prays, “...that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” Jesus’ prayer is that we would reflect something of God - something that could be reflected not in ANY of us alone, but only in ALL of us, together. That we, like the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, would be different - and see the beauty in the different ways God made us , indeed, the difference actually makes the whole more beautiful when each is highlighted - and yet so unified that those differences would barely be visible. Here’s the beautiful, powerful part: Jesus prays that God’s light would actually shine through that kind of unity to show the entire world, like a rainbow, the beauty of God’s promised, coming kingdom. In a culture that celebrates only the individual and tends to separate, may we see the beauty and the power in the whole today. The identity that brings us, the Church, together is “In Christ.” As Jesus prayed, we are united to God and the Church when we know Him (v 3). Today, pray that difference and division wouldn’t cause anyone to walk away. Pray that as followers of Jesus we would not stay away from “the world,” but lovingly bring people who are different than we are in - from our neighbors to the nations to the next generation - together as a multi-generational family on mission. May your kingdom come in every thought, attitude, belief, word and action today. Amen. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.
Submit a Prayer Request or pray with others at the House of Prayer at Paradox every Sunday at 9:00am.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 13:31-14:11, Acts 4:12 & Ephesians 2:12-22
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Have you ever felt like you’re lost at sea - unsure where to go, tossed by the wind and waves, drowing in the uncertainties of life, wondering where God was, where to go, and what to do next? We’ve all been there. Even Jesus’ disciples, who felt that way as Jesus stood right in front of them. Jesus is with his disciples, and the weight of what's to come hangs heavy in the air. He’s just shared that he’s “going away,” and that the disciples couldn’t go with him. Things are about to change. They wouldn’t feel God’s presence in the same way. They wouldn’t have Jesus right there to show them what to do, tell them what to say, or lead them to where they should go. Troubling and disorienting, to say the least. But Jesus says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me" (John 14:1). It's like He's speaking directly to us across the ages, urging us to anchor our hope in Him. Life's uncertainties can feel overwhelming. It's easy to get caught up in worry, fear, and doubt. But Jesus invites us to shift our focus from the storm around us to the steady assurance found in Him. “I am the way,” Jesus says. Remember, Jesus says He is the Light. Today, He reminds us that He’s the Way. If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's uncertainties today, take heart. You're not alone. Jesus promises He’s the Way. He’s gone before you and He’s coming back to get you like a search & rescue team. He’s the Way that has already shown us exactly what God is like and what to do like a map. And He’s the Way that’s that’s always with us like a guide who walks you through every twist and turn - offering comfort, guidance, and hope along the way. Trust in Him. Fix your eyes on Him. You'll find that even in the midst of the stormy seas, He is the Way, like a lighthouse guiding you safely home. If you’re trusting Jesus as your Way for the first time or deciding all over again who Jesus is to you, we invite you to be baptized at Paradox on April 21. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Psalm 27
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Sometimes I let fear delay my obedience to God. There are so many words in my vocabulary that when boiled down actually start with fear. Stress, anxiety, frustration, sadness, anger, doubt.. I think the result of giving those words power by using them regularly breathes life into a lie. It gives power to the fear that they start with, and ultimately a foothold for the enemy to use against us. A way to keep us in a place where we don’t activate. Thomas doubted his friends when they told him they saw the resurrected Lord. It makes me think about what might have caused him to initially fear believing. We do know from scripture that it took another week for Jesus to reveal himself to Thomas, and then he believed (John‬ ‭20‬:‭29‬). Fear delays things like blessings, and revelation‭s. Fear takes up space where faith could be. I want to have the faith that overcomes all things that lead me to give the enemy room to bring strongholds. ”The Lord is my light and my salvation — whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life — whom should I dread?“ (Psalm‬ ‭27‬:‭1) ‬ Today I invite you to be patient with God, and yourself. Have faith that there is an answer to whatever question, concern or struggle you are experiencing. Ask Jesus into that place, and His Holy Spirit to bring comfort to you while you are waiting. ”Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the Lord.“ (Psalm‬ ‭27‬:‭14)‬ - Rachel Hood

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Choose one of the Names of God using this guide. Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it today, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Exodus 3:1-15
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Have you ever asked God for a sign? Asked him to show up in an undeniable way? I know I have. Sure, it’s not EVERY time that he shows up in a physical way that is undeniable but he ALWAYS shows up in my heart, my thoughts, and my intuition in undeniable ways. But there have also been times that God has shown up in physical ways that are simply undeniably him. God always shows up for us in ways that we need to see him in that specific moment and time. I have not experienced a burning bush like Moses did but I have witnessed God physically heal me, heal others, provide financially for me and for others in wild ways, and answer prayers that simply seem too far fetched. Why does God do this? We don’t deserve for these things to happen but it’s because that’s simply who God is and he knows that every time he shows up in these ways we are drawn closer to him which is his ultimate goal in the end: to be in deep relationship with each one of us. Why did God show up to Moses in a burning bush? So that Moses would have confidence to lead the Israelites and tell them that God has come to rescue them. Without that defining moment Moses may not have been willing or trusting enough to walk out the call on his life that God had invited him to be apart of. I love that God cares so much about us that he will show up for us in wild, miraculous, and undeniable ways just to remind our doubting hearts WHO He is. Maybe God has invited you in to something but you’re in need of a reminder of the God who invited you. He is faithful, he is steadfast, and he can be trusted. He will never change who He is. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He’s worth the risk. - Cecelia Thapa

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Isaiah 9:2-7
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
The most efficient form of government is a dictatorship. No arguing committees. No filibusters. No election rhetoric. Just one person in total authority making the best decisions for the good of the whole. They appoint leaders who report directly to them and are accountable to the dictator’s supreme power. The ONLY problem with this form of government…finding a good, wise, selfless, caring dictator. All cases in human history with the dictatorship experiment have ended very poorly .
But consider the prophesy Isaiah wrote to his people as seen in today’s reading...
He is writing to the people of Zebulun and Naphtali, which would end up being the area that Jesus grows up in. He tells them that they will see a great light, their joy will increase, and their oppression will end. Why? Because a child will be born in their area and he will become a wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting father, and prince of peace. He is, of course, talking about Jesus.
What does this have to do with a dictatorship?
Isaiah says “of the increase of his (Jesus’) government and of peace there will be no end…” What he is saying? That Jesus’ authority (government) will ultimately be supreme, and ALONG WITH IT…peace! Why? Because if an all powerful being who created a universe with the sole purpose of sharing his love with it were to be the everlasting dictator over it…there will be peace. He will “uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore.”
I can’t wait for dictator Jesus to be in charge. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer this morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 1:1-4 & Ephesians 5:8-14
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Check out the little numbers and notes in your paper Bible, or the speech bubbles next to some words if you’re reading on your phone. They “shed some light” on who this “Word” is that John is referring to. (Hint: It’s Jesus!) Jesus is the “light” that has been from the beginning. Jesus was with God, Jesus IS God, Jesus is the light by which God created the world and everything in it (although, as the Nicene Creed teaches, He was not himself created), and Jesus brings light, life, and victory to everyone and everything He touches. Just as days get longer, brighter, and warmer in spring, as you look around and see trees and flowers blossoming, as you hear birds singing praises and feel the warmth of the sun on your face - pause to close your eyes and think about everything light brings today. Thank Jesus for it. Say a quiet prayer like, “Jesus, thank you for warming the cold places of my heart. Jesus, thank you for helping me to see the beauty all around me. Jesus, thank you for lighting the way for me to walk. Jesus, thank you for bringing life into the dormant, dead parts of my soul.” I love the verses we read from Ephesians - as we live “in the light,” we actually become part of it. Christ, the light, in us! We are little moons reflecting God’s light and life into the darkness around us, exposing it for what it is and overcoming it… simply by existing. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.
Submit a Prayer Request or pray with others at the House of Prayer at Paradox every Sunday at 9:00am.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Matthew 16:13-20
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
In today’s reading, Jesus pops the question to His disciples. No, not that one. An even bigger one: "Who do you say I am?" But It's not just a question for them—it's for us too! Even in Jesus’ own day, the responses to that question were varied. Some say a good man or a great teacher. Others, far less flattering things. But it’s a question each of us need to answer at some point for ourselves. Like Peter, we're invited to see Jesus as more than just a great teacher or a wise leader. He's the Christ, the Messiah — the one that we’ve been waiting for, longing for, searching for. The one on whom our hope and our future rests! THIS is the rock, the firm foundation. Our faith journey hinges on acknowledging this truth. When we grasp who Jesus truly is, we not only become part of His everlasting kingdom, but we can stand strong against anything that tries to shake us. No matter what you’re facing today, let's follow Peter's lead and boldly declare Jesus as the Christ, and build our lives on the firm foundation, the rock, of that truth. If you’re answering that question for the first time or deciding all over again who Jesus is to you, we invite you to be baptized at Paradox on April 21. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | 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.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 18
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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 read or listen to the story of the betrayal and arrest of Jesus I have always wondered, “How could they all turn their backs on Jesus?” Often, we have to be ready to receive more to get more of the story. What if that was true for the disciples? Maybe this is our turn to receive more today. When Jesus was arrested in the garden, maybe the disciples were starting to understand what Jesus was talking about when he spoke of his impending death. Perhaps, with their backs against the wall, they began strategizing? What if they felt that since there probably wasn't anything they could do to save him the best thing to do was get scarce and save themselves to continue their work in the kingdom. Simon Peter, who stayed with Jesus when the others fled, denied knowing him. Perhaps he felt that if he identified himself he  might end up in the same way as Jesus.  When our backs are against the wall, it can become tempting to react out of a place of fear, lashing out and hurting others, like Peter. We may be tempted to “save ourselves,” by retreating into comfort or running from responsibilities, the church, or even Jesus himself - doing what makes sense in our limited understanding. We may deny Jesus with our words, choices, and actions for fear of what others will think or what will happen to us. We may even convince ourselves that all this is actually the smart or even right thing to do. Thankfully, while we may not always trust God and remain faithful to Jesus in these frightening opportunities, God is faithful to use even our shortcomings to shape us, write His story with our lives, and bring His kingdom purposes here on earth. God Loves You And So Do I - Scott Rose

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Choose one of the Names of God using this guide. Take time to Thank God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in the past, Worship Him for it today, and Intercede (pray for) that truth for yourself and others.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 19 & 1 Peter 2:22-25
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
Jesus, the silent Sacrifice. He didn’t open His mouth once to demand release or even to exert His all powerful nature in the face of those who accused Him. I’ve been meditating on Isaiah 53 - specifically the verses that talk about how “we esteemed Him stricken by God and afflicted.” It’s almost as if people were looking at Jesus with pity at His plight - as if He were being punished by God somehow. But we know that this was God’s plan all along - to rescue and save us from the punishment and consequences of sin, death and hell that we deserved. He did this without a word of defense or self justification. He didn’t even spell out the plan to those He stood before. The One who was been there from the beginning of time who exists outside of time eternally stood in human form, took our sin upon His body in the most cruel and painful way so we could be healed of our sin and brokenness. This is my King worth entrusting my soul to. I am thankful that I have a relationship with a God who doesn’t and hasn’t remained absent from human experience, suffering and pain. But He is the humble servant King who entered into humanity. A King who is acquainted with sorrow and familiar with grief. Lean into Jesus today, thanking Him for His silent suffering and His healing. - Jessica Glenn

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer this morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 20:1-18
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
In today’s scripture we read of Thomas, who famously declares that he will need to physically touch the risen Jesus or he will “never believe”. Thomas had the eye witness testimony of his friends and the very words of Jesus himself from just days before saying that he would be rising from the dead, but that was not enough for him. Contrast his case with that of an Ethiopian eunuch that you can read about in Acts 8. This guy was from a foreign land, not a Jew by birth, and he was struggling to read and understand the prophet Isaiah when God prompted Phillip, an apostle, to go explain things to him. By the end of the conversation the eunuch accepts that Jesus is God’s son, the Messiah, and he is pointing out the closest water and asking to be baptized immediately. What a difference between these two men!
Thought #1 - Be a eunuch, not a Thomas! That is, be like the man who easily chose to accept the truth that leads to life, not the one who made it more difficult than it needed to be. John ends his gospel: “these (signs Jesus did) are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have LIFE in his name.”
Thought #2 - There are lots of eunuchs out there! That is, there are many people whom I believe are primed and ready to “believe and have life in his name”, they just need someone to point them in the right direction.
Jesus said “blessed are those who have not seen and yet believed.” Be blessed by exercising easy faith today, and be a blessing to someone else by helping them to do the same! - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.

GET FOCUSED | Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
Spend a few moments in silence, meditating on scripture, or writing/saying 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
Use the PRAY acronym to guide your prayer this morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from John 8:31-59
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
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…
"The truth will set you free" is a phrase often championed in academic circles, emphasizing the importance of intellectual freedom and the pursuit of knowledge. However, its roots extend beyond academia to John 8:32, where Jesus spoke these profound words. In its original context, Jesus isn't referring to classroom learning but to a deeper, transformative knowledge—one that leads to spiritual freedom and liberation from the bondage of sin. More than head knowledge, Jesus says that “truth” isn’t simply ideas to believe or agree to… but a person to know. Jesus says, He IS the truth, and that knowing HIM will lead to true freedom. If it is true, then, that knowing Jesus leads to freedom - and everyone wants to be free! - then the question becomes not how we can pursue freedom apart from Jesus (isn’t that what humans have done since the beginning!?), but how we can pursue knowing Jesus more. When we do, we come to understand not only the truth about who God is, but who we are too. And that is truly liberating. Knowing Jesus and our true selves in Him brings the freedom to truly be ourselves - a freedom that transcends the constraints of sin, feelings, and even our past. As we study Jesus in his own words throughout the gospel of John, make this your prayer: that we might know Jesus as he truly is, and yourself in light of that - and that the truth would set you free. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by praying a Daily Examen each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Refocus = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

SHARE THE FOCUS |
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.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Use the PRAY acronym each morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Luke 24:1-9, Romans 6:1-11 & 1 Corinthians 15:1-28, 50-57
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…
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!! The resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter is the culmination of Holy Week and the climax of the Christian faith. It is the dominant, joyful theme of the Bible. Early in the morning on the first Easter a group of women, including Mary Magdalene, went to the tomb of Jesus and found it empty. An angel proclaimed, “Don’t be afraid... Jesus has risen! He is not here... Go tell his disciples... He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you” (Mark 16:6-7).
Whatever you need to do, you don’t need to do it by yourself. Put your trust in the angel’s words that Jesus is risen from the dead, and he’s walking with you into whatever situations are ahead for you. Fix your eyes not on the circumstances that are seen and temporary, but on the glory of Christ’s presence that is unseen and eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). It’s true. It’s real. The Spirit of the risen Jesus is with you. Hold his hand. Put all your confidence in him. He will comfort you and strengthen you. “My peace I give you,” Jesus promises. “Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).
Jesus, you go before us so we are never alone! We praise you as the Risen Lord! Hallelujah! We hold to your promise of peace. Help us to fix our eyes on you in all circumstances and live for your glory, only and always. We love you Lord!! Amen.- Bill Gaultiere, SoulShepherding.org

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Pray the Daily Examen each evening.
The Examen prayer was made popular by Ignatius of Loyola (1491 – 1556). It has helped Christians for centuries to re-center themselves on Jesus as they come to the end of long days. We are using a variation created by Pete Greig from his book, How to Pray, to help us re-focus on Jesus at the close of our days.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Reboot = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

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.
Play or sing some worship music you love, or use a playlist from Paradox on Spotify.
If you’re new to the Daily Focus, read this first.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Use the PRAY acronym each morning. 
P = Pause. As you start your time of prayer, begin by pausing and being still before the Lord.
R = Read. Read the Scripture Focus slowly and focus on words/phrases the Holy Spirit highlights as you read.
A = Ask. Ask God to come and speak to you. Open up your heart to Him as your heavenly Father.
Y = Yield. We want to yield our lives to the words we have prayed and commit to follow Jesus’s way.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Today’s reading is from Matthew 27:45-47, Psalm 22, Isaiah 41:8-10 & John 14:16-18
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…
On Holy Saturday, Jesus lies dead, his body cold and lifeless in the tomb. The Messiah, who was supposed to liberate Israel and free the oppressed, appears to have failed in his mission. His followers have scattered - afraid and alone. The loss is profound, and hope feels distant. Perhaps this day is a reminder of a place you’ve been, or a season you’re in. The dark moments, days, months or even years when God feels distant, hope feels lost, and life as you know it feels over. But death cannot hold Jesus. He is the Righteous One, and even death couldn't keep him down. With his precious blood, God paid the ransom to rescue us from sin, death, and hell. Though we may fear death and its uncertainties, Jesus understands our fears, having faced them himself. His resurrection proves that death doesn't have the final say. So, where is God in the waiting? Holy Saturday reminds us that even when we feel we’re forsaken, God never leaves us. His plan and purposes will prevail. The darkness lasts for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. As we wait in the darkness of this Holy Saturday, we do so with hope, knowing that Jesus's resurrection is imminent. Even in our darkest moments, his light of hope shines bright. We trust in his promises, knowing that he has conquered death, and in him, we have nothing to fear. Amen. - Dave Kubiak

Invite someone to experience the joy of Jesus’ Resurrection at Paradox tomorrow!
Services are at 9am & 11am. More information at paradoxchurch.com/easter

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Pray the Daily Examen each evening.
The Examen prayer was made popular by Ignatius of Loyola (1491 – 1556). It has helped Christians for centuries to re-center themselves on Jesus as they come to the end of long days. We are using a variation created by Pete Greig from his book, How to Pray, to help us re-focus on Jesus at the close of our days.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy or joyful? What made you anxious or burdened?
Rejoice = Give thanks to God for the small and the significant things from the day.
Repent = Ask God for forgiveness where you need. Receive His forgiveness afresh.
Reboot = Commit to walk with Jesus tomorrow. Ask for grace to see His presence more clearly.
*For help or an audio prayer version, use the Lectio 365 app.

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!