In today’s episode of my 4-part series, “Letters from Prison” we delve into the book of Philippians. This letter provides a unique glimpse into the heart and mind of the Apostle Paul, who viewed his life as a reflection of Jesus’ journey. His profound connection to Christ filled him with a sense of hope and humility, even in his darkest hours, enabling him to find joy and contentment despite external challenges. The core message of this letter emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the Lord and maintaining a positive attitude regardless of circumstances. Paul encourages believers to cultivate joy and peace through their trust in God, urging them not to succumb to fear during times of persecution but to continue living out the teachings of Jesus amid adversity. As we reflect on Paul’s letter to the Philippian community of believers, we are encouraged not just to endure adversity but to find joy and peace through relationship with God through Christ, embodying the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives. Let this message inspire you to remain steadfast, joyful and grounded in the truth of the gospel.

Jesus says to His followers, “As the Father sent me, so send I you.” And so, how did He conquer? Read John 1:35-51. 1)He went for a walk; maybe you could go for a walk in your neighbor’s world. 2) He asked questions; maybe you could ask your neighbor, “What is it that you want?” 3) He invited folks to “come and see.” 4) He valued incompetence. 5) He made people competent. 6) He wasn’t easily offended. 7) He celebrated honesty. 8) He recognized the Kingdom at hand: God’s dream planted in His neighbor’s heart. 9) He is the Kingdom at hand: God’s dream planted in the heart of Adam.

He said to Nathaniel, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending (NOT on a piece of real estate) on the Son of Man.” I think He’s saying, “I am Israel, and I am the firstborn from whom you stole the birthright. I am the presence of the Father from whom you stole the blessing. I am your birthright and blessing. I am the edge of the Promised Land: Eden. I am taking you home to the Tree of Life in the middle of the Garden. I am the Son of God, and the Son of Man. God is my Father. Man is my mother. You, Adam, will give birth to me and all things with me. I am the decision to humble oneself and join the dance.”

There is an old Jerusalem built with stones, and it’s been condemned. And there is a New Jerusalem descending from God even now. It is your birthright, and it’s filled with the blessing which includes every Jew and every Arab; it includes Isaac and Ishmael, Jacob and Esau, Cain and Abel. “For whatever you do to the least of these my brothers,” says the firstborn, “you do to me.”

10) He invited folks to come and see His heart. And sometimes a body has to be broken for a heart to be revealed.

If we always belonged in Christ, why does the Bible talk about adoption?

In this weeks episode, Baxter and Jason respond to one of the most common questions asked on belonging and adoption. Join them as they unpack  adoption, sonship, and what it means to live fully as true sons and daughters of the Father, in Jesus.