I love food! I mean my stomach growls thinking about all the delicious, exquisite foods there are in this world. Steak, hamburgers, tacos, hummus, ravioli, dark chocolate, blueberry pie, shrimp, brownies, caesar salad, ribs, and cheese are just a few of them coming to my mind. However for thousands of years denying our body's basic need for food has been a spiritual practice. Many religions have practiced this and still do today.  ​

Almost a year ago, my youngest son was born. Birth is an amazing miracle that God has graced us with. My wife and I held our baby boy tight and welcomed him into our family. Life was changed in that moment as our family headed toward a new normal. 


However 7 days into this new normal we found an expanding skin infection on him that appeared to be moving fast. Our doctor told us we needed to go to the hospital immediately. So there we were standing in the hospital checking in our 7 day year old baby. It seemed unreal. Tears fell down our faces and we choked up getting the words out to the receptionist as we checked him in. I was fearful knowing the significance of what could happen and what it could mean for our family. I was also extremely aware of the preciousness of life. In an instant, life can change for both good and bad. I felt empty as if everything inside of me had been stripped away leaving a hollow shell.  

An older couple visiting family came up and stood in line behind us.  The man's shirt caught my eye.  It said, "Need Jesus?". The question was so pertinent.  In this moment I was broken and knew the only thing that could get me through was the love of Jesus. My mind answered, "Yes Jesus, my family needs you. My son needs you right now. I need you." I prayed quietly as we walked down the long hallway and up the elevator to my son's hospital room.  


Over the next few hours and days we watched as the hospital staff assessed the infection trying to understand the nature of the virus. Thankfully, after a spinal tap they were able to rule out bacterial meningitis. Finally tests came back stating it was a staph infection that was treatable.  My wife and son stayed in the hospital for the next week getting it treated.  It was a long week of coming and going and I often thought about that moment when I had to answer the question, "Need Jesus?".  ​

All of us need Jesus! Whether that be during our toughest times or during the everyday minutia we find ourselves in. Sometimes we just have to be reminded. Jesus understands our pain and suffering and wants to bear that with you. He wants us to know we are not alone. Jesus' love heals and overcomes all things.  I have answered the question, now its your turn.  Do you need Jesus?

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I thought this song "Jesus I Need You" by Hillsong Worship fit for this story.  Take some time to listen to the ministry they provide and what it means for you.  

Keep on keeping on during this 2020!  Jesus is with you! 

This week answer the question "Need Jesus?" 

I love the continued language used declaring that all have worth. No matter what we think of ourselves or others, this message states there is worth in every one of us.  Its a powerful message carrying wholeness and hope. This isn't about valuing the actions of people or ourselves its about the inherent worth in each of us.  It's not about measuring ourselves to others its about our intrinsic value; the unique characteristics and qualities of who we are as a person that makes us, us. 


​We all have imperfections and we all suffer to some degree. Through this we must continue to have a caring response to our own and others mess ups and difficult moments. You have worth. You are unique. You are valued. If you don't feel this way please consider adding meaning to your life by taking part in activities that make you feel important and loved.  Consider joining a Community of Christ online group.  

None of the words above mean anything if our actions do not match them. The scripture pushes each of us in this faith community to find the commonalities within the people we come in contact with.  This world has too much division for us to add to it.  Whether it be our family, church, employment, or elsewhere, we need to find ways to bridge our relationships with mutual respect and understanding.


​Making someone have the same opinion of you is not understanding or respectful. Its about listening, valuing the worth of a person, engaging in real dialogue that deepens relationships so that divisions can be torn down and replaced by bridges of love. Sometimes we get to the point where we cannot fathom the beliefs of others. This is when we need to work tirelessly to tear down the walls of separation. We must remember it is in our differences including opinions and beliefs that make us better as a whole.  

We are no stronger than the weakest among us.  Who is the weakest in your community?  Jesus went to the marginalized and rejected to bring hope and healing. He touched the lepers when told not too, he spoke to woman who didn't have the same rights, he loved on the Sabbath when he was to rest. Jesus didn't come for the strong, he came for those on the edges of society who didn't have a voice. So I ask you who is hurting in your community?


If we are to bear the name of Jesus so too must we reach out to show the love of God to others. To help strengthen those who are weak, to shelter those who are homeless, to clothe those who are naked, to empower those who feel voiceless. This is what it means to be a disciple that bears the name the Christ.  This is what it means to be a prophetic people, a faith community that upholds the worth of all people. It's not about sitting quietly in our churches but living with the weakest in our community; tearing down the walls between us and embracing the bridges that bring love and understanding. I see this and wonder about my own ability to live this out. This is no easy task, but I know if I am too follow Jesus, these are the stakes. We hold precious lives in our hands.  What will you do?

I appreciate all those willing to carry the name of Jesus on their hearts each day.  

This week identify who is rejected and marginalized in your community and take action to create just systems and relationships where all have worth.