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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: 1 Chronicles 4:1-23
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 1
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Matthew 7:13-29, 22:34-40 & 1 Peter 2:21-25
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
It’s a New Year. Another “end” of one road, and the beginning of another. Another year full of possibilities… and choices. Perhaps you’re happy with what you set out to do and where the choices you made in life took you in 2024. Others, perhaps less so. There’s one thing that unites us all, and we’re reminded of this sobering reality every time the clock turns midnight on a new year. Try as we might, none of us can do everything. We can’t take every path. We all have to choose one, and not all of them lead to the same destination. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus describes the narrow gate that leads to life, contrasting it with the wide gate that leads to destruction. Choosing the narrow path isn’t always easy—it often means going against the flow, loving when it’s hard, and sacrificing our own desires for God’s will. But Jesus assures us that this path is worth it. It’s the way of life, peace, and fulfillment. It’s also a narrow, less walked path. So, how do we know it? Jesus gave us a rough map in Matthew 22:37-40, when He simplifies the complexities of life into two clear commands: love God and love others - the foundation of walking the narrow path. But more than a vague map outlining the way, God gives us a person to show us - the Way himself. The Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus. Early Christians were called “Followers of the Way.” So, as you stand at the beginning of another year, another fork in the path… you’re invited to walk the narrow path that leads to life. To walk this way of love, as followers of the Way Himself. Walking the narrow path means living with Jesus as our foundation, not just hearing His words but building our lives on them. It’s not always the easiest way, but it’s the way of full, abundant, eternal life. Let’s take a moment today to ask ourselves: Am I walking in the way of love, trusting Jesus to guide me through the narrow gate? What step can you take to follow the Way of Jesus in 2025? - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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

Good Morning! and Happy New Year’s Eve!!!
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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: N/A
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 150:3-6
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 11:17-27, John 20:1-18 , 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, 35-44 & 50-57
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Whether or not you call it a “resolution”, most of us will go into this new year resolved to do a better job caring for our bodies. We will intend to eat better and/or less food. We will intend to get more exercise. And some of us will actually do it…for a while. Why? Because we know that if we care for our bodies better they will look better, operate better, and last longer. True. But here is what we also know: our bodies will eventually fail us. No matter how much less Mountain Dew we drink or how many pushups we do, these mortal shells are finite and perishable. They will fail. Happy New Year!

But…
We know something else as well. We know that we are more than a collection of cells with some electricity flowing through them. We are not JUST biological machines. Paul said: “If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.” We are told by Jesus, Paul, and many others through scripture that we are spiritual beings. The death of our bodies is not the end of us. Jesus said to Martha: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me, even if he dies, will live. Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” This is the hope that we have in Jesus. This is the good news. That while we were spiritually dead in our sin, Jesus made a way for us to be spiritually acceptable to God, such that when our bodies fail our spirit can live on. Paul said we will acquire new bodies, incorruptible and immortal.

I will work a little harder this coming year at having better physical health. It only makes sense for us to reside in healthier bodies while we are in them. But I will not worry about it or obsess over it. I know that God has an incorruptible, immortal home for my soul eventually and he is with us through the aches and pains until that day comes.  - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Daniel 2:27-45 & 7:13-14
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 150:1-2
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Mark 1:14-15, John 18:36 & Revelation 11:15
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Time. It passes faster and faster every year. No one ever seems to have enough of it. And yet, everyone and everything seems to demand more and more of it. Have you ever noticed how many things in life try to lay claim to our attention? From work deadlines to cultural trends, it can feel like we’re constantly pulled in a hundred directions. But Jesus offers us something radically different—a kingdom that’s not of this world. In Mark 1:14-15, Jesus begins His ministry with a simple yet life-changing message: “The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” This is a different kind of time - not the passing of time (chronos), but a moment of eternal significance (kairos). In this moment, the kingdom of God is near. Jesus is saying in the midst of chronos time, there are kairos moments when we can enter into God’s kingdom in the here and now. And His kingdom is not one of power-hungry rulers or fleeting trends; it’s a kingdom of peace, justice, and eternal hope - even in the midst of them.

In Revelation 11:15, we get a glimpse of the ultimate reality: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” No matter how chaotic or uncertain life feels, we can find rest in this truth—God’s kingdom, while not yet fully realized, is here, available, and already breaking into our world. How might Jesus be inviting you to step into it today? To live each moment with your heart more aligned to His rule, knowing that His reign brings true freedom, purpose, and joy? Where can you make space for His kingdom to break into each moment in your life this year? - Dave Kubiak

As we close out the year, would you consider giving a year-end gift to Paradox Church? Your generosity helps us continue offering the Daily Focus and sharing God’s love at no cost to all who need it. Learn more at paradoxchurch.com/give. Thank you for partnering with us!

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: N/A
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 148:7-14
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-10, John 13:1-17 & John 15:9-17
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Two things I’m noticing about today’s reading: 1) Sacrifice is foundational to love. 2) The world’s view of love is a poor substitute for biblical love. Let me explain…
John 3:16 // LOVE GIVES God so loved the world that He GAVE his one and only Son. He did this for US! Praise God! If you’ve loved, you know that it almost always includes you willingly giving something that you value for the good of another.
1 John 4:9-10 // LOVE BRIDGES THE RELATIONAL DIVIDE These verses show us that God provided us with not only a great role model or example to follow in Jesus - but the ultimate sacrifice needed for a relationship with him. When offense comes, we have the opportunity to be like our savior and BE THE BRIDGE!
John 13:1-17 // LOVE SETS THE EXAMPLE Jesus knew his time was short - He also knew he wanted his people to be marked by their love for one another. To show the importance of this type of love, He gets down and washes the dirtiest part of his friends (Sandals & almost exclusively walking on dirt meant that people’s feet were DIRTY!)
John 15:9-17 // LOVE FOLLOWS THE EXAMPLE Jesus is showing us our part here - Follow His lead! In following him, we find joy we can’t find elsewhere! With that joy let’s not forget that following this call to become love means laying down our lives, preferences, and wills for the sake of those we are called to love!
Grace & Peace to you all in this new year! - Matteo McGill

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 49:5-6
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 148:1-6
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 2:21-40
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
What would it be like to wait your whole life for something? To carry all that anticipation and hope for something that has not yet come? Simeon and Anna must have experienced so many moments throughout their lives wondering, “Is it time yet? Will it be now?” That moment when Jesus finally came to the temple, and Simeon realized who He was, must have been incredibly powerful. In verse 29, Simeon praised the Lord, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Simeon and Anna lived their lives in anticipation of the coming Messiah. But we don’t have to wait—the Messiah has come! He has come to give us life. Do we truly realize the gift we have in Jesus? We can enter the throne room of God anytime we want and commune with Him. Romans 6:23 says: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Jesus came to free us from sin, and we no longer have to wait. We can live daily in joy and freedom because Jesus isn’t just coming—He is HERE! - Liz Holland

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Micah 5:2
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 98
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 2:1-20
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Merry Christmas! I grew up reading today’s reading each Christmas morning with my family. As a child, I just wanted my Dad, Mom, or sister to read it faster so that we could move on to opening the gifts that were under the tree. Now, as an adult, the significance of this reading has grown because of its familiarity in my life over the years. Today what I feel like Jesus is showing me is that He meets us in regular, everyday life. Sometimes we think we need to do something special or extraordinary to encounter God - but this passage shows us that He is available to all of us, no matter where we are. He is available to the young couple, ready to give birth any day and trying to get back home. He is available to the tired shepherds; watching over their flock at night. He meets you in your everyday life too - wherever you are. If you’re working hard, trying to get by - He meets you there. If you’re stressed; trying to make this season perfect for those around you- He will meet you there too. If things are going great in your life - He meets you there. If things haven’t gone how you’d hoped/ thought/ planned and you wonder where He is - He meets you there. Jesus is Immanuel - God with us. So wherever you find yourself today - surrounded with family, alone, at work, or any other place - He is meeting you right where you are. He is ready to show you His love and mercy, and He wants a relationship with you! Jesus, help us to see you wherever we may find ourselves today - and help us to meet with you right in that place. - Gwyn Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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

Good Morning! and Merry Christmas Eve!!!
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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: N/A
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 147:7-14
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 1:14-18 & 58-80 , Matthew 1:1-25 & Galatians 4:4-5
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
“When the time came to completion, God sent his Son…” These are the opening words of Galatians 4:4. They speak something very profound to us. God had a plan. A very specific point into which he intended to bring his grace and truth into the world through Jesus. The symmetry of the genealogy in Matthew 1 is further demonstration that God is working through a discreet timeline, and the birth of Jesus that we are celebrating tonight is a key act in God’s universal story.
So what do we make of all the people in Jesus’ family line and all the “characters” around the birth of Jesus we remember each year and display around our manger scenes? Did God just move them all around like ceramic figurines to execute his script? I don’t believe so. We see throughout history that God used those willing to listen to him and follow his lead. It is a beautiful mystery how God directed this cosmic tale to completion while using players with free will.
But here’s the thing to remember as we celebrate this holy night some 2024 years ago…the play isn’t over. God HAS a plan.
We are in the throes of a new act in God’s story. One that will ultimately end when Jesus returns. When asked when this time would come Jesus told us that no one knows when the final curtain will close but the Father himself. Until then, WE get to be players in God’s story. All of us willing to listen to his direction and follow his lead have a part to play in this epic tale of love and redemption.
Tonight let’s pause to remember the night that Jesus, the main character of God’s story stepped onto the stage.
Tomorrow, let’s ask God: “what’s my next line?”  - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: N/A
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 147:1-6
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 1:5-25 & 58-80 , Matthew 11:1-15 & Hebrews 1:1-2
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Sometimes, waiting can feel unbearable. Whether it’s waiting for a prayer to be answered, a dream to come true, or simply for clarity in a difficult season, the silence can be deafening. Zechariah and Elizabeth knew that kind of waiting. For years, they prayed for a child, and as time passed, it must have seemed like God had forgotten them. But in Luke 1, we see that God’s timing is always perfect. Not only did He answer their prayer, but He gave them a role to play in God’s story. Their child, John the Baptizer, would be a child with a mission to prepare the way for the Messiah. Their story reminds us that God is never late—His plans unfold in His time, for His glory, and for our good. I have to believe that Zechariah and Elizabeth shared their story of waiting, doubt, frustration… and God’s goodness with their son John as he grew up. Later, John would wrestle with his own doubts while waiting in prison. In Matthew 11, John sends his followers to ask Jesus if He truly is the One they’ve been waiting for. I love that Jesus doesn’t respond to John’s wondering-in-the-waiting with frustration. Rather, Jesus points John once again to what he’s seen in the past to reassure him for the future. Like John, our doubts don’t disqualify us. Instead, they’re meant to bring us closer, remind us of God’s faithfulness in the past, and give us an opportunity to understand more fully who Jesus is. Whether you’re in a season of waiting, wrestling with doubt, or simply seeking reassurance, know this: God sees you, His timing is perfect, and He is always faithful to His promises. Keep trusting, keep hoping, and let Jesus be your anchor. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Psalm 131
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 145:17-21
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 1:26-56, Philippians 2:5-11 & James 4:6-10
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
The end of 2024 is drawing near. Every year, I reflect on the year that was and ask God for vision and a word to guide me in the upcoming year. This past year, that word was “humility.” Humility isn’t exactly a “crowd-pleaser.” In a world where self-promotion is often rewarded, the idea of lowering ourselves feels counterintuitive. But Scripture paints a different picture—one where humility opens the door to God’s greatest blessings. Take Mary, for example. When the angel told her she would give birth to the Savior, she didn’t respond with pride or self-importance. Instead, she humbly accepted God’s plan, saying, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38). Her humility became the stage on which God would be put in the spotlight. She was content with the life God had for her.

There’s a difference between contentment and complacency, however. While contentment is receiving everything God has for us and no more, complacency is a false humility that actually leads to receiving less than what God has for us. Paul reminds us in Philippians 2:5-11 that Jesus, though fully God, humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross. And James 4:6-10 encourages us to submit to God, promising that when we humble ourselves, He will lift us up. True humility isn’t about thinking less of ourselves; it’s about thinking more of God—His plans, His glory, and His purpose. When we lay down our pride and surrender to Him, we open the door to His transforming power in our lives… no matter where He leads us or what it looks like. Like Mary, when we humbly say “yes” to God, He works in ways beyond our imagination. What might He do through your humility today? - Dave Kubiak

We’d love to celebrate Christmas with you at Paradox Church! Join us Sunday, December 22nd at 10am for our special Christmas service, and don’t miss our beautiful Candlelight Service on December 24th at 7pm. Let’s worship and celebrate the joy of Jesus’ birth together!

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 40:28-31
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 145:8-16
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Mark 6:30-31 & Matthew 11:25-30
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I want to be joyful. I want to be the person walking around that always has good news to share. As I was reading this chapter in Matthew, it brought to mind moments where I have had that opportunity. I started second guessing myself for a moment because a lot of what came to mind were times when it would actually be easy to be in a good mood and bring joy with me into conversations or moments with those around me. But how do I respond when it’s not so simple? When the to-do list is a mile long, the kids are fighting and my pocket book took an unexpected dip? These things are smaller examples, but I do think they are good examples of warning signs that I’m not living in thankfulness. It’s even harder when things like grief and anger enter. Whether I’m witness to it or experiencing those things first hand, joy can almost feel inappropriate in those times. I can’t say the same about being thankful. Starting with thanksgiving in any circumstance, good or difficult, propagates joy. I’m not thankful for stress, but thankful God equips me to govern my life. I’m not happy about the fighting, but thankful God gave me the gift of children. I don’t like when I can’t afford something, but praise God for His provision. I don’t want to feel loss, but cherish the people around me. A friend once shared a verse in Matthew 11 with me in a time where I was caught up in a mix of stress, grief and pain. “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭29‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV)‬‬ Let’s pray in gratitude to Jesus who equips, gifts, provides for, and cherishes us. Give Him all the glory and rest in Him today. - Rachel Hood

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Psalm 16:5-11
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 145:1-7
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 5:24-29 & 10:7-18, 27-30
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
We understandably get caught up in the joy of this season. I genuinely enjoy Christmas lights and decorations, spending time with family, Christmas music, snow, and nativity scenes. That precious young couple traveling so long while expecting their first child is truly an example of faith and obedience to God. In today’s reading, we find that the precious baby Jesus is all grown up; faithful and obedient to our God, just as HIs parents modeled in their home. We see Jesus obeying the Father in these passages by caring for the people the Father gave Him, both Jews and Gentiles (John 10:16). He cares so much and knows each of us so well that each of us has an opportunity to recognize His voice. He has promised never to leave us or abandon us. He designed each of us in our mother’s womb. We are KNOWN by Him. We often see the word “Believe” at Christmas. But what exactly are we to believe? Some would say in Santa, joy, hope, or love. But this word “Believe” points to Jesus Himself. This precious baby we celebrate in this season is the Son of God who committed to die on the cross of our sins BEFORE the universe and earth were even created. Jesus reminds us in John 5:24 ‘Listen, listen. I say to you, whoever hears My word and BELIEVES Him (the Father) who sent Me has eternal life.” This season is about the fulfillment of eternal life with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. So, friend, what message are you listening to? What voice are you hearing? What are you choosing to believe? - Renee Richter

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-7
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 144:9-15
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 15:11-32 & Ephesians 1:7-8
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Today’s NT scripture from Luke focuses on the story of the “prodigal son”. I have read this story so many times I basically have it memorized. So when I read it today I asked God to show me something new. And he did!
In verse 17 it says: “When he (prodigal son) came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food to eat, and here I am dying of hunger!’” What really struck me was that it took the son to be “dying of hunger” before he decided to return to his father. He didn’t “come to his senses” in the sense that he realized he had made a mistake in leaving home. He just simply had no other choice. “No one would give him anything.” Here’s what I find amazing…even though the son had apparently not become truly remorseful and he was just returning to the father out of necessity, he was STILL greeted with love. What this tells me is that God is willing to accept ANY who turn to him. The key is not having complete or perfect remorse for our sins, but acknowledgement that God alone can save us. Jesus’ sacrifice is what is complete and perfect. His grace is “richly poured out on us”. All we need to do is gratefully receive it. - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-7
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 141:1-4
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 4:16-30 & Luke 19:1-10
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Have you ever felt overlooked or underestimated? Unrecognized? Or perhaps, unseen? In Luke 4, Jesus stands in the synagogue and declares that He is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy—the One sent to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the captives, and sight to the blind. But instead of celebrating, the crowd rejects Him. They can’t reconcile the idea of a hometown carpenter being their Messiah. Similarly, in Luke 19, we meet Zacchaeus, a man despised by his community as a tax collector. God recently spoke to my heart through this story. We often hear this story and see nothing but a “short guy” who climbed a tree to see Jesus. But what if there’s something more going on here? Something all of us can relate to - even the vertically “un-challenged.” What if, instead of only trying to see Jesus, Zaccheus’ efforts had more to do with Jesus seeing HIM? I know I’ve thought this - if I could do more, stand out, be better, climb higher… then I’d be seen, noticed, cared for. Amidst the very crowds that look on the outside and look over, down on, and past Zaccheus… Jesus sees him. And Jesus sees you. He calls him down from the tree, and dines with him. Zacchaeus’s life is transformed in that moment.

Jesus came for the broken, the outcast, and the overlooked. He doesn’t measure us by our past or by what others think of us. Instead, He sees our potential and offers us freedom, hope, and transformation. Just like Zacchaeus, when we respond to Jesus’ invitation, everything changes. His love has the power to rewrite our stories and bring us into the fullness of life He promises. No matter where you feel stuck or unseen today, know that Jesus is calling you by name, offering grace and a fresh start. Will you come down and meet Him? - Dave Kubiak

This Christmas season, we want to share a little extra joy with you! Here are a few handpicked links from Paradox Church—consider them a small gift to brighten your day and remind you of the hope we have in Jesus.
A Joyful Christmas Party Playlist from Paradox on Spotify
A Recipe for Hot Chocolate Bombs from Parent Cue
A Joy-Filled Family Advent Calendar from Paradox
A Replay of the Joy of the Journey Kids Christmas Program from Paradox

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Genesis 3:15
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 143:7-12
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Mark 3:22-27, Hebrews 2:5-18 & Revelation 12:10-12
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
God is good, and greater than any evil. We can hope and persevere through hardship because God will prevail no matter the circumstances. Luck has nothing to do with it, it's all faith. Jesus suffered. He was accused of many things, treated harshly, verbally assaulted, physically beat, and emotionally strained. He persevered, though, because of his faith. He knew His true identity, because he trusted His Father. Jesus went through hardship for us! Think of a time when you've experienced a wrongful accusation, or been treated harshly. It is all too easy in these moments to lash out in anger, give them a taste of their own medicine, and fight every battle. But in God's kingdom, that is not strength - it’s weakness. When you choose to love in spite of anger, not to hurt, but rather to heal… now THAT is true strength. Jesus was about building people up, not tearing them down, or overpowering them.

In Mark 3, we see Jesus’ accusers fear him and his power. They accuse him of being evil, even possessed by Satan! But instead of yelling, or reacting, his response is to call them over - bring them close so he can speak to them. His desire and intention is to teach them with the truth - God's truth - the power of good over evil. Jesus is acting on what is more important, the bigger picture. Do what is right, cast out the evil now. Do not wait. Do good now. This is hard stuff! Actions speak louder than words, and that can mean self-sacrifice, loving your accusers in spite of feeling hurt or angry, and persevering because of your true identity in Christ. The sacrifice of Jesus, his death and resurrection, we have a King who has gone before us in experiencing hardship. We too can endure hardship, because that same Spirit lives in us if we’re in Jesus. It's not in our own strength, but in His. There is so much importance of faith shown in all three books mentioned today - especially when circumstances are difficult. We have all faced social turmoil, rejection, or disappointment, and I'm sure we will again. But despite our current or future struggle/hardship, our Father God will prevail. He will establish a new Heaven and earth. We shall not fear even death, for we have eternal life through our Savior Jesus Christ. Clothe yourself in his righteousness, and stand firm in your faith. Have a blessed day, and know that we can face anything with the strength we receive through Jesus. - Marci Burk

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 9:1-7
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 143:1-6
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Luke 1:32-33, 5:1-10, Matthew 22:41-46, & Acts 2:29-36
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Everything is going according to plan: One of the beautiful things about God's Word is that it tells a story of things to come from the Old Testament to the New Testament. One of the ways we see this most beautifully demonstrated is through prophecy. Prophecy is a critical piece of evidence that points to the inspiration of Scripture. We can look in centuries past to see where God spoke of things to come, and then fast forward to the New Testament writings to see these prophecies come to pass. The reason this is powerful evidence is because only God can know the future. This is critical, because King David wrote about the coming Messiah 1000 years before Jesus was even born.

In Acts 2, Peter tells the Israelites that Jesus is the Messiah and that God has raised Him from the dead. Peter also says that God promised to place one of David's descendants on the throne, and that David spoke of the Messiah's resurrection. This is incredible news! Furthermore, when Jesus was on the cross, He quotes the psalm of David. Psalms 22 “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This is extremely important because the Jewish audience who was listening to Peter, would be able to see these breadcrumbs that the Holy Spirit had placed all throughout scripture, pointing to Jesus the Christ, the Anointed One, the prophesied Messiah. The Israelites are moved and ask Peter and the other apostles what they should do. Peter tells the Israelites to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. He also says that they will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. What incredibly good news, especially when we think about the Christmas season and how chaotic things can get. There's so many people we want to get gifts for, and probably a few things we want to receive ourselves. But nothing compares to the greatest gift - and that is salvation through Jesus and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that is gifted to every believer in Christ.

Nothing catches God by surprise, even in the moments in our life where it seems like things don't make sense. Let us be reminded that God is the author and the finisher of our faith, and that everything happens for a reason. One day, we'll be able to look back and see things more clearly - that through our trials and our victory, God has had our end already prepared from the beginning. And He is creating a beautiful story that includes us as His children, and He, as the hero and savior of all. That being said, there's no need to worry. Jesus has already finished the work on the cross and it's been prophesied from millennia past: everything is going according to plan. (Romans 8:28)  - Jewaun Glenn

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Exodus 20:1-17
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 142
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Matthew 5:17-48 & Romans 8:1-4
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Have you ever wondered, “Am I a righteous person”? I mean, I am not out there breaking the law - you know, the laws of not killing anyone, or stealing, you know the stuff that will put you in jail. Well, in these verses in Matthew 5, Jesus gives us a better idea of what God sees as righteous. 

In Matthew 5:21, Jesus states “You have heard that it was said to those of old, You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgement.” But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool’ will be liable to the hell of fire.” WOW! Who hasn’t been angry with someone? I know I am guilty of anger. I always felt righteous in my anger, I mean, how dare they? But this is a big eye opener for sure. Jesus tells us to guard against harboring anger that can lead to insults and broken relationships. He tells us that if we are angry, the only way to handle the situation is to try and resolve the conflict, not to push the person away with insults or slander. 

Taking that first step in reconciliation may put you in a place of humility - not a comfortable place to be - but in the eyes of our Lord, it is the right thing to do. I am thankful that I am not in any conflicts with anyone, well at least not that I am aware of. I have been consciously trying to curb my aggravation with others, especially when I am driving. (I’m sure I’m not alone in that!)

Jesus also brought up retaliation in Matthew 5:38. “You have heard it said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’” Jesus goes on to say that you need to be compassionate and show exceptional kindness to anyone who puts demands on you. For remember, He also told us to love our enemies; “You have heard it said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemies. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.’” (Matthew 5: 43-45) 

So, the next time you feel like tearing into someone, remember that Jesus calls us to be “righteous” in the eyes of our Father. Let’s all try to show some compassion, kindness, and most importantly, patience with each other. We may not always agree, but that is no reason to spread discord and bitterness. May we all be found righteous in the eyes of our Lord. - Dawn Marie Custer

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Jeremiah 31:10-11, 31-34
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 141:5-10
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Ephesians 2, Romans 5:6-11, & Colossians 1:21-23
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
As I was reading through our scriptures for today, I started thinking about dating apps. No, I do not frequently think about dating apps. I am happily married and April and I met before apps were invented, so I have never even been on one. So why did they come to mind? It’s a weird thought actually: who would God select on a dating app? Typically the app is used to narrow the field and connect to the one person who best fits the searcher’s criteria of who they want to be with. We humans when setting our criteria would want to avoid connecting with anyone who is clearly unstable, broken, or needy. Thankfully, God is not like us. Most of today’s readings start by talking about how we are: “alienated and hostile”, “helpless”, “dead in our sins”. This doesn’t sound like a very attractive profile. Yet God’s criteria for selecting us to connect with has nothing to do with how good we are, but how good HE is. In his crazy love for us God sees past the brokenness. He sent Jesus to “make us alive”, “redeem us”, and “forgive our iniquity…never remembering our sins”. It feels good to be chosen. It is humbling to know that God sees us, warts and all, and says with his actions: ‘you are beautiful, and I have literally moved from heaven to earth to be with you.’
At all times, but especially this Christmas season, let us strive to be like Jesus in how we view one another. Let’s embrace the messy. Let’s see past the warts in one another and show each other love, as we ourselves have been so loved by God.  - Mike Nank

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Leviticus 4:32-35, 16:1-22
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 141:1-4
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from John 1:29, Hebrews 10:1-10, & 2 Corinthians 5:21
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
There’s something about being a Dad that makes your kids believe you can fix anything. There is no place where this is more clear than in the Christmas village we set up at home every year. Because my kids love playing with the little people and houses so much, most of them are broken in several places and held together by an impressive amount of super glue. (Yes, that’s my secret ingredient). I’ve even managed to convince my wife that I am “handy” and can fix most things. The truth is, I’m just stubborn and don’t give up! But of course, there are plenty of things that are, frustratingly, beyond my super glue abilities to fix. Have you ever tried to fix something on your own, only to realize it’s beyond your ability? Maybe you even end up making the problem worse (I know I can’t be the only one…) That’s what sin is like—it’s a mess we can’t clean up no matter how hard we try. The sacrifices in the Old Testament reminded people of this. Hebrews 10 tells us those sacrifices could never fully take away sin; they were just a shadow of the ultimate solution to come. Enter Jesus.

John 1:29 introduces us to that solution when John the Baptist declares, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” Jesus wasn’t just another lamb; He was the perfect, final sacrifice. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul writes that Jesus, who knew no sin, became sin for us so that we could be made right with God. That’s the ultimate exchange—His perfection for our brokenness. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to carry the weight of our sin anymore. Jesus has already dealt with it, once and for all. All that’s left is for us to trust Him and live in the freedom and joy of being made new. Sin isn’t our problem to fix anymore. You’re at Peace with God. Live in that today. Bring the broken pieces of your life to your loving Father, and let Him begin to fix it. - Dave Kubiak

This week of Advent, we’re Focusing on Peace. Check out the Paradox Christmas Worship playlist to fill your season with the peace of Jesus amidst all the noise.

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Isaiah 52:13-15 & 53
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 140:1-5
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Matthew 15:29-30, Mark 5:25-34 & Revelation 21:3-4
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
Over the last month or so, our family has gone through the loss of several loved ones. Unfortunately, that has meant more time at funeral homes than anyone would like (let’s be real, any amount is too much) and, consequently, plenty of time spent with others who are grieving, mourning, crying, hurting, and questioning. More real talk: not only are funeral homes places where people don’t want to be - but so are places of pain. Whether it’s our own pain or the pain of others, most of us actively try to avoid these places and people.

Not Jesus. Have you ever noticed how Jesus always made time for people who were hurting? In Matthew 15:29-30, huge crowds came to Him, bringing the sick, the lame, and the blind. Jesus didn’t run or hide from the overwhelming pain all around Him. He didn’t turn them away; He healed them. In Mark 5, a woman who had been suffering for 12 long years touched His robe in faith, and He stopped everything to care for her. Over and over, Jesus shows us that He sees our pain, meets us in it, and brings healing.

Revelation 21:3-4 gives us a glimpse of the ultimate fulfillment of this hope: a day when God will dwell with us, wipe away every tear, and banish death, sorrow, and pain forever. These moments of healing on earth are like previews of the complete restoration to come. So, if you’re feeling worn out, broken, or burdened today, take heart. Jesus is near, and He cares deeply about your pain. Just like the crowds, the woman, and the promise of Revelation, you can trust that Jesus is working in your life and is preparing a future where all things will be made new, and in His presence find that future Hope in the present. - Dave Kubiak

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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, & use as much or little as you’d like.

GET FOCUSED | Start by simply thanking God for who He is & what He’s done.
+ Practice gratitude while singing/playing some worship music from Paradox on Spotify.
+ Spend a few moments meditating on today’s Old Testament Scripture: Leviticus 9:1-7, 16:29-34
+ From your reading, finish the sentence “God, you are ___.”
Take time to thank & worship God for the ways you’ve seen Him be/do that in your life.

MORNING PRAYER FOCUS | Prayer involves both talking and listening to God.
+ Pray the Lord’s Prayer, or slow down to pray it using this Lord’s Prayer guide.
+ Use “Lectio Divina” to listen to God in this morning’s Psalm: Psalm 139:17-24
Reading 1 = Focus. What is one word or phrase that Holy Spirit puts on your heart?
Reading 2 = Feelings. Focus on that word or phrase while you read. What do you feel? What specific situation in your life today relates? Reflect and talk with God about it.
Reading 3 = Invitation. What is God’s personal invitation to you from the Scripture?
Take time to journal anything you feel the Lord might be saying to you.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE FOCUS | Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.
Today’s New Testament reading is from Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:1-10, & 10:10-14
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
Observe. Pay attention to what the text says. Ask who, what, when, where, & why.
Interpret. What’s the main point or meaning? What does it teach about God? Yourself?
Apply. Apply this truth to your own life. What can you put into practice today?

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
If Jesus is the ultimate priest and is appointed on our behalf to be our go between with God, why do I hesitate to give all my sin to Him? I know that sin disturbs our relationship with God… and yet I still am reluctant to speak out all of my sin (confess).

If there was anyone I should be going to with my sin, it is Jesus. He has been through the same things that we have. Yet somehow, unlike us, Jesus was able to have these same experiences and not be swayed by the tempter. Jesus has walked the same walk that we have and came out the other end sinless. Because Jesus has had the same temptations we have, He has three things:

First, His experiences gave him sympathy for us as we walk in our temptation. This is an understanding of where we are at and why we are there.

Second, Jesus has mercy for us. Because Jesus goes before us, we can approach God’s throne and find mercy and help - not punishment - for our sins.

And third, having the same experiences provides Jesus with the ability to help us out of our struggles. There is nothing better when you are struggling than to have someone come alongside you and actually be able to help you.

We might as well speak it all out, He already knows what we’ve done, said or thought. Since we’re not going to hide it, we might as well get rid of it. Getting our sins out in the open with Jesus helps us to get our walk with God back on track and begins the process of repairing our relationship with God. Remember, God Loves You and So Do I - Scott Rose

EVENING PRAYER FOCUS | Re-Focus on Jesus by returning to prayer each evening.
Replay = Replay your day. What made you happy, joyful, 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 = Ask to see God’s presence more clearly & walk w/ Him more closely tomorrow.
+ 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 |
+ Pray a Ripple Prayer or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations & those serving them.
+ Text someone an encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
+ Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
+ Who can you share what you’re learning with today personally?

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