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DTOTD

June 11, 2026

in DTOTD

by cefiggins

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The Towel and the Apron: Becoming Who We Follow

Scripture Reading:

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45

We talk a lot about spiritual growth. We pray for it, we study the Bible for it, we take courses on it, and we gather on Sundays, hoping to take another step closer to looking like Jesus. But if we are honest, it is easy to treat spiritual maturity like an intellectual pursuit—something that happens entirely inside our own heads or within the safe walls of our church community.

But if you look at the life of Jesus, his maturity didn’t look like a closed-door study group. It looked like a towel wrapped around his waist, washing dusty feet. It looked like breaking bread with people society had written off. It looked like intentional, boundary-crossing relationships with people who were culturally, socially, and religiously different from Him.

At Harvester Christian Church, our vision isn’t just to know about Jesus; it’s to encounter Him so we can become like Him to unleash His hope in our community. And one of the most direct, challenging, and beautiful pathways to that transformation runs straight through our changing neighborhoods.

Expanding Our Definition of “Neighbor”

When Jesus was asked, “Who is my neighbor?” He responded with the parable of the Good Samaritan—a story specifically designed to shock his listeners by making a cultural and religious outsider the hero.

Today, God is bringing the nations to our doorstep. Kevin Hamilton and I met with All Nations this week, whose goal is to create opportunities for followers of Jesus to develop personal relationships with refugees and immigrants, showing the love of Christ. All Nations shared data showing that the largest share of immigrants and refugees in the 63303 zip code is from India, Mexico, and China. Our neighborhoods are increasingly filled with people who may not look like us, speak our native language, or share our cultural background. Some have traveled across the globe or fled difficult circumstances to find a home here.

When we step out to serve these neighbors, our spiritual formation hits hyperdrive:

We trade comfort for compassion: It is easy to serve people who are just like us. But when we stretch across language barriers and cultural differences, we mimic the radical hospitality of God, who crossed the ultimate divide to reach us.
We practice humility: Serving someone from another country, culture, or value system requires us to listen first, learn their stories, and lay down our assumptions.
We see the image of God in diversity: Every single person walking the Earth today reflects a unique facet of God’s creativity. By engaging with different communities, our view of God grows larger and more vibrant.

Serving as a Bridge to the Gospel

We don’t serve simply to check a good deed off a list, nor do we treat people as transactional projects. We serve to build genuine relationships.

Jesus’ ministry often followed a beautiful pattern: He met practical, tangible needs, built authentic relationships, and always invited people into the Kingdom of God. He did not stop at the humanitarian level. He loved people so much that he always shared hope. Our service opens doors that words alone cannot. When we help a newcomer navigate a new city, assist with English practice, say hello in a park, or simply share a meal, we earn the right to be heard.

Relationship-based evangelism isn’t about having all the answers or slick arguments. It’s about letting the love of Christ flow through your actions so naturally that it sparks a conversation. When our neighbors see the church serving them without strings attached, it puzzles them in the best way possible, prompting them to ask why we care. And that is exactly when we get to share the hope of Jesus.

Taking It to the Streets

The HCC family knows that our mission field is from the QT on Jungermann to the Middle East. It’s the baseball fields in Cottleville to Ethiopia. It is my neighbor down the street in St. Peter to our neighbors in Athens. You just need to open your eyes to the mission field right outside your front door.

This week, ask God to break any fear of the unfamiliar in your heart. Look for opportunities at Harvester or in your daily routine to connect with someone from a different background. A smile, a shared meal, or a helping hand can be the first step in a relationship that changes a life for eternity.

Reflection & Discussion Questions

Reflect: Think about your current daily routine. Do you naturally interact with people who don’t look or speak like you? How can you intentionally expand your circles?
Identify: What are some common barriers (fear, language, awkwardness) that hold us back from building relationships with any of our neighbors, whether they are from other countries or not? How can Christ’s love help us overcome them?
Commit: What is one practical way you can build a relationship with a neighbor this week (e.g., inviting someone over for coffee, volunteering with a local refugee or international ministry, or simply introducing yourself to someone new)?

Prayer:

Jesus, your heart is for every tribe, tongue, and nation. Forgive us for the times we stay in our comfort zones and serve only those like us. Give us the courage to cross cultural boundaries, the humility to learn from others, and the love required to build lasting friendships. Use our service to build bridges of trust, so that we might have the privilege of sharing your Gospel with our neighbors. Amen.

April 5, 2026

in DTOTD

by cefiggins

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What Now? Living Like the Resurrection Is Still Happening

The season leading up to Easter is full of preparation. It’s a mindset that comes with the seasons finally changing. It’s a holiday tradition that brings friends and families together. Easter comes with full rooms, full hearts, and the powerful declaration: He is risen.

But then Monday comes.The quiet question rises: What do we do now?

What the Disciples Did After the Resurrection

The disciples didn’t immediately become bold leaders sharing the news of a Risen Savior with everyone they knew. .They did what most of us would do:

They gathered in fear and uncertainty (John 20:19)
They processed what had happened
Some returned to what felt familiar—like fishing (John 21:3)
They waited
And in the waiting… Jesus met them

He showed up in ordinary places like rooms, roads, and shorelines, reminding them that resurrection wasn’t just an event, it was a reality they would now live inside.

What Changed Everything

Everything shifted when they began to truly believe not just that Jesus rose, but that He was alive and present with them now. Their fear changed into courage. They came out of hiding to witness. Once again, God used ordinary people to become carriers of an extraordinary hope.

What Do We Do Now?

One thing is, we don’t move on from Easter. We live in it. We intentionally stay close and choose to be with Him in our everyday, ordinary schedules and agendas. And He still meets us in those everyday moments, transforming them into the holy and sacred simply because He is with us. We need to stay close to Jesus in the ordinary. Allow the resurrection to reshape your perspective on anything you see or anything you are experiencing. What feels dead or futile isn’t beyond His power. Just like the disciples, share your story. You don’t need all the answers, just a willing heart to share how saying YES to Jesus has changed your life. When the world gets loud and chaotic, and anxiety rears its ugly head, live with a quiet courage with the confidence that HOPE becomes your witness. Keep showing up to worship, to pray, to listen, to praise, to learn, to teach, to lead, and to serve. Faithfulness creates space for you to see and feel how God is already moving in your life and the lives of others.

Scripture to Explore

John 21:12–13
“Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples dared ask him, ‘Who are you?’ They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish.”

Look at this bit of amaziness. After everything, the cross, the confusion, the miracle, Jesus makes them breakfast. This is who He is.
Alive. Present. Personal. In the ordinary, everyday moments. He provided a safe space for the disciples to encounter Him.

Journal Questions

Where in my life do I need to believe that resurrection is still possible?
What would it look like for me to live this week like Jesus is truly alive and present with me?
In these three things I do every day, I am inviting Jesus into those tasks/spaces so I can encounter Him and become more like Him.

A Simple Prayer

Jesus,
Thank You that the resurrection wasn’t the end—it was the beginning.
Help me carry Easter into my everyday life.
Meet me in the ordinary, strengthen my faith, and teach me to live like You are alive. Because You are.
Amen.

Truth to Carry Today:
The resurrection isn’t behind you. It’s within you.

January 14, 2026

in DTOTD

by cefiggins

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DTOTD: The Blessing of Sacrifice Over Convenience

DTOTD: Sacrifice Over Convenience

If we’re honest, most of us like serving when it fits neatly into our schedules, our expectations, and our sense of control. We like predictable outcomes. We like knowing how things will go. We like convenience. But Jesus has never been overly concerned with convenience. When Jesus calls us to follow Him, He calls us into a life that often trades comfort for compassion, predictability for presence, and convenience for sacrifice. And nowhere is that more evident than when we serve those who are unhoused.

Serving our unhoused neighbors can feel messy. It can be unpredictable. It can stir anxiety, uncertainty, and even fear. Can any of us control the weather to make sure we serve on the days we committed to? Being on call means we don’t make other plans because we are committed to something that may not happen and definitely won’t happen the way we thought it might. We may wonder:

What if this goes wrong?
What if I say the wrong thing?
What if my help isn’t enough?
What if nothing changes?

Scripture never promises that obedience will feel easy. But it does promise that obedience matters. Luke 9:23 informs how we choose to spend our time and resources in this way. “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”

When we serve our unhoused neighbors, we are choosing sacrifice over convenience. We sacrifice comfort. We sacrifice control. We sacrifice our preference for clean lines and tidy endings. And yet—this is the way of Jesus. Jesus stepped into unpredictable spaces. He touched the untouchable. He listened to stories that were long and complicated. He lingered where others hurried past. The call to “deny yourself and take up your cross” isn’t just about suffering—it’s about laying down our need to be in charge.

Convenience asks, “How quickly can this be resolved?”
Sacrifice asks, “How faithfully can I show up?”

Convenience asks, “How little will this cost me?”
Obedience asks, “What is God inviting me to lay down?”

Convenience asks, “Is this safe and predictable?”
Obedience asks, “Will I trust God even when I don’t know what comes next?”

To overcome the lies of convenience Satan whispers to us, we often need to name our fears, anxieties, and uncertainty. Let’s say it out loud: serving unhoused people can feel scary sometimes.

Not because people experiencing homelessness are the problem—but because we don’t know what to expect. We can feel unprepared and ill-equipped. Uncertainty can create anxiety. Anxiety can create fear. And fear can quietly convince us to step back instead of stepping forward. But Scripture reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” God does not shame us for feeling fear—but He does invite us not to be led by it. You have heard it said that Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is choosing obedience in the presence of fear.

One of the greatest burdens we carry into service is the belief that we are responsible for the results. We want changed lives right in front of our eyes on our watch. If we give up this time and this comfort, then we want it to mean something immediately. We want tidy success stories.
We want measurable outcomes. But Scripture gently—and firmly—reminds us that outcomes belong to God. In 1 Corinthians 3:6–7 we read, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So, neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” Our role is not to fix. Our role is not to rescue. Our role is not to be thanked or receive gratitude from our guests. Our role is not to guarantee transformation. Our role is obedience. We show up. We love faithfully. We serve with humility. We trust God with what we cannot control. Obedience is success in the Kingdom of God.

Harvester Christians, when you serve our unhoused neighbors—even when it’s uncomfortable, unpredictable, or inconvenient—you are walking in the way of Jesus. Every night blocked out of your schedule. Every meal served. Every conversation shared. Every boundary held with grace. Every moment of presence offered. None of it is wasted. God sees your obedience. God honors your sacrifice. God works in ways you may never fully see this side of heaven.

God, we confess that we often prefer convenience over sacrifice. We admit our fear, our anxiety, and our desire for control. Give us the courage to follow You into uncertain spaces. Remind us that we are not responsible for outcomes—only obedience. Help us to serve with humility, love with compassion, and trust You with the results. May our lives reflect the sacrificial love of Jesus. Amen

November 28, 2025

in DTOTD, Uncategorized

by cefiggins

2 Comments

How To Survive The Holiday Chaos

Well friends, Thanksgiving Meal #1 is over. Some of you may be racing to Meal #2 to appease the family. Where I am kind of jealous of those of you who have large families who want (and expect) to spend every holiday with you, I have to admit I like the slow pace we have in our family. Smaller families and large distances keep us from even expecting to spend every holiday with relatives.

The mad dash begins for all of us. We are all gearing up for the pressure to be everything, do everything, and attend every event between Thanksgiving and Christmas. But do we really? Is this something that Satan has nonchalantly slid across the table, and we have received his lie as truth?

Here are the questions for you to consider before the season begins:

1. What would need to be true for you to grow in love, joy, and peace during this year’s run?
What would you have to say no to, to make that a reality? What would you say yes to? And here’s another one worth asking: What could we do more simply—something that keeps the meaning of the experience, but requires less time and energy?

2. What do your closest family and friends want from you this year?
What do they want you to be fully present for—not just show up at? Ask them. Then put those moments on your 2026 calendar now. Try hard to keep those as non-negotiable dates.

3. What are you cramming into the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas run that could actually wait until late January?

I, for one, REALLY struggle mentally during January and February. I think we all need something to look forward to in the dark days of winter and loosened up the holiday schedule for everyone.

Let’s not worry about what we are missing out on or who we might be letting down. Did you pass on the gravy? Let’s also pass on the pressure and pace. Let’s not pass on the people in our lives. You really don’t have to prove anything to anyone.

“Breathe deep, hold things loosely, and let love and peace rise to the surface again.” -Brian Rutherford

October 27, 2025

in DTOTD

by cefiggins

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Praying for the Harvest

Luke 10:2 – “He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”

In Luke 10, we see Jesus selecting 72 disciples to preach in cities he was going to visit. They were told to heal the sick and announce the arrival of the kingdom of God. Before sending the seventy-two out on mission, Jesus invited them into intercessory prayer. David Platt defines intercession as a form of “desperate prayer” through which believers partner with God to accomplish His will on Earth. This is where we can stand in the gap between God and people. Jesus reminds the crowd that the work of ministry doesn’t begin with our mouths, our hands, or our minds.

It begins on our knees.

The harvest has always belonged to the Lord, and our first act of partnership with Him is to pray for those He will send — and to be willing for that prayer to include us. When Jesus looked out over the crowds, He didn’t see inconvenience. He didn’t see interruptions. He didn’t see a to-do list. He saw a harvest — people ready to experience the love and hope of God. And His first instruction wasn’t “Go.” It was “Pray.”

At Harvester Christian Church, when we lift a desperate prayer for “our One,” we are joining Jesus in His heart for the lost. We’re not just praying for opportunities to serve; we’re asking God to open eyes, soften hearts, and prepare both the laborers and the harvest. Every time you pray for a neighbor, a co-worker, a teacher, a student, or a family in need, you are cultivating spiritual soil that the Holy Spirit can grow something eternal in.

Intercessory prayer isn’t a small task — it’s the spiritual groundwork of every movement of God. When you pause to pray before serving in the pantry, before walking into a school, or before greeting a guest at an outreach event, you’re aligning your heart with the heart of the Harvester — Jesus Himself.

Our call is to see the harvest as He sees it. It’s not a burden to be carried; it’s not task to be scheduled into our lives; it’s a promise to be fulfilled. And when we pray for the laborers — for others and for ourselves — we are saying to God, “Use me, too.”

Reflection Questions

When you think of “the harvest,” who in your life comes to mind as your One—the person God has placed on your heart to pray for?
When you think of ‘the laborers,” who in your life do you need to invite to join you in service to others inside and outside of Harvester?
How might you intentionally include intercessory prayer in your serving rhythm—before, during, and after you serve?
What would it look like for you to say “yes” if God answered your prayer by sending you into the harvest field?

Intercessory Prayer

Hey God,
You are the Lord of the Harvest. Thank You for allowing us to see what You see — a world full of people who are loved, seen, and ready to know You. When we were still powerless ourselves, you died for us, the ungodly. Because we have been reconciled, we boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ that as many others as possible will come to know the love of Jesus. Stir in us a holy compassion for the lost and a deep burden to pray for those who labor in Your name. We lift our fellow workers in the harvest — every volunteer, every servant, every neighbor who carries Your light into dark places. Strengthen them, protect them, and fill them with Your Spirit. We desperately pray for our Ones — those who are far from You but not far from Your heart. Prepare the soil of their hearts to receive the good news of Jesus. Open doors for us to speak truth, to show love, and to live lives that point directly to You. And Lord, if the answer to our prayer for more laborers is us, give us the courage to go. Send us where you will. Use our hands, our words, and our presence to bring in the harvest that You have already prepared.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

September 25, 2025

in Church, DTOTD, Guest Services, Local, Outreach, Serve Teams

by cefiggins

1 Comment

Leadership Lessons from the Lightkeeper

Years ago, there was a lighthouse keeper on a rugged stretch of coastline. He was given just enough oil each month to keep the light burning through the nights. The light wasn’t for him—it was for sailors out at sea who depended on it for safety. He had one job—you guessed it- keep the light burning. Pretty straightforward, right? Don’t let ships crash into the rocks. Not complicated. But the guy was super nice. Maybe too nice. The neighbors would show up:

“Hey, can I borrow some oil for my lamp?”

- “Sure, no problem.”

“I need a little for cooking.”

- “Of course, anything for you.”

“My tractor’s squeaky, think a little lamp oil will help?”

- “Absolutely, take all you need.”

By the end of the month, guess what? Yep—the oil tank’s bone dry. And wouldn’t you know it, the night he runs out just so happens to be the stormiest night of the year. The lighthouse goes dark, ships slam into the rocks, and chaos ensues.

And when the authorities ask him what happened, he’s like, “Well… I was being helpful! People needed me! I didn’t want to let them down. I didn’t want to make them mad at me. It was easier if I did it than if someone else did, I was called to do these tasks, I was meeting needs!”

Except—his actual job was to keep the light burning.

And that’s leadership in the church, isn’t it? Everyone wants just a little more oil from you. Everyone’s got just one request this one time. And as leaders, we’re tempted to say yes to everything, because it feels good to be needed. And as leaders, we think we can handle all the extra responsibilities. But if we forget the one job—keeping the light of Jesus burning bright—then the whole thing falls apart.

There are some lessons to learn from the Lighthouse Keeper.

Leadership is both a privilege and a weight. Weariness can creep in—there will always be another need, another event, another demand, not enough people. We have the weight of temptation. We can start to wonder if the work matters, or can someone else do this, or to say yes to everything. Satan may convince us we are the only ones doing the work or we are the only one with this calling.

This is why it is crucial to listen to what God says to combat Satan’s lies. Galatians 6:9 reminds us that our labor is not in vain; God will bring a harvest in His time. 1 John 3:17–18 tells us that leadership gives opportunities to love with action, not just words. We read in Hebrews 10:24–25 that we lead as part of a body; we are not the entire body, we inspire and encourage one another and would be nothing without each other. Finally we land on Romans 12:11–12 – “Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Cheerfully expectant, don’t quit in hard times. “

How do we keep ourselves fueled and aflame as leaders with the ultimate responsibility of keeping the light burning for Jesus?

Keep pointing teams toward loving God first. We lead others to find and follow Jesus by living a compassionate, Christ-centered life, praying for guidance and preparation in others’ hearts. We build genuine relationships with the people He places in our lives both inside the walls and outside the walls of Harvester. We humbly share the Gospel message of God’s love, sin, salvation through Jesus’ sacrifice, and eternal life. This is our greatest responsibility, and this is what we need to be obedient to before anything else.

Keep reminding your teams that loving neighbors matters deeply. If the teams you lead run into difficult people or messy complicated lives Satan will tempt them into turning away with apathy or fear or responding in anger or frustration. Loving each other is the key to what God has truly called all of us to.

Know your purpose in God- why do you do what you do – is it to please man or is it to please God? We find our purpose by seeking God’s guidance through prayer, studying the Bible for wisdom, and using our spiritual gifts to honor God in service to others.

Pause before saying yes, seek God first- high-capacity volunteers and leaders are typically able to do more than others. However, that does not mean that God necessarily wants you to do more. Seek His will first. Don’t rush to the yes.

Lead from a place of rest– not from a place where you have to rest. Truly godly leaders prioritize rhythms of rest and Sabbath. Listen to yourself. If you are constantly saying how busy you are, if you are always running late, if your conversation is all about how you are tired, how exhausted you are, you may have prioritized the God of Busyness and bringing attention to yourself rather than from a place of rest where you can be the light to show people who Jesus is.

Keep praying—for endurance, joy, and unity. Praying without ceasing reminds us not to rely on our own strength, our own understanding, or wisdom. Praying for yourself to follow Jesus, for your team to help people to find and follow Jesus, and for the people they are serving to come to know how much Jesus loves them allows God to increase our faith and trust in Him.

Trust the promise: There will be a harvest. God calls us to join in the work as laborers. But we are not responsible for the harvest. We cannot put our place in God’s place. God directly oversees the growth and the outcome. He just calls us to be obedient to Him.

Keep the light burning- do the one job of managing the challenge of leadership through posture, pausing before saying yes, rest, prayer, and trusting the promises of God.

June 5, 2025

in Church, DTOTD, Jesus

by cefiggins

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A Contemplative Time to Focus On God’s Holiness.

Lauren McCleester, our Media Arts Pastor led us in this contemplative time during our Staff Chapel on June 3. I was so impacted by how the Holy Spirit ministered to me during this time that I really wanted to share it with you. Make some time, pull up a chair for God, and rest in these beautiful truths.

Staff Chapel Tuesday June 3, 2025

Lauren McCleester

Adapted from Lectio Divina 365

PRAY

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, to love what is holy.

READ | Psalm 65:9-11

9 You visit the earth and water it
    you greatly enrich it;
the river of God is full of water;
    you provide their grain,
    for so you have prepared it.
10 You water its furrows abundantly,
    settling its ridges,
softening it with showers,
    and blessing its growth.
11 You crown the year with your bounty;
    your wagon tracks overflow with abundance.

PAUSE AND BREATHE

READ | 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written,

“He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
    his righteousness endures forever.”

10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 

We often fall into the trap of scarcity — believing there’s not enough time, energy, money, or attention. And most days, we feel like we have the evidence to prove it, even if it’s a lie. But Paul reminds us of a better and truer story. Everything we hoard in fear of losing eventually withers, but whatever we sow — surrendered to the grace of God’s leading — multiplies and bears fruit beyond what we can see. Nothing we give to God is wasted.

Where do you feel tempted to have a scarcity mindset in your life right now? Write your thoughts or a prayer to God.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

PRAY

Lord, free me from the lies that pull me away from confidence in you and your ability to provide. Turn my heart and mind back to your faithfulness and nurturing presence in my life.

READ 2 Corinthians 9:6-11 again, as you do, look for a particular word or phrase that the Holy Spirit seems to be highlighting to you today.

REFLECT: Take a moment to reflect now on any word or phrase that the Holy Spirit is highlighting:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

When I try to manufacture peace, purpose, and provision, I place myself where only God belongs. He is the source of all that is good in my life — the well that never runs dry, the vine that never withers. I am not required to be enough, only to remain in the One who is. Everything I need flows from him: strength for today, and grace for tomorrow.

PRAY

Father, remind me I’m not the source — you are.

Give me open hands and a willing heart.

Let my giving be full of joy, my living full of praise, and my life a testimony to your endless generosity.

March 26, 2025

in Discipleship, DTOTD, Guest Blog, Ministry Partner

by cefiggins

0 Comments

Finding Joy in the Unexpected Ring: A Lesson in Divine Timing

At one point or another, we can all relate to wrestling with God in the middle of the night. We seek him for reason, purpose, and peace. I think you will enjoy this guest blog post from Michael Wilson, a Harvester Christian deeply invested in one of our ministry partners, Bad Boyz Jail Ministry. Look for themes of joy and purpose and comment below on how God has provided joy in your life no matter the circumstances.

Finding Joy in the Unexpected Ring: A Lesson in Divine Timing

Guest Blog by Michael Wilson

The pre-dawn hours often feel like a battleground. For me, they were a daily struggle, a restless dance of body and mind. The joyless start to my day was a persistent shadow, a stark contrast to the light I longed for. Seeking a shift, I turned to a devotional titled, “Finding Joy Despite Our Circumstances,” hoping to illuminate a path through the darkness.

The devotional presented four pillars of joy: confidence, purpose, the Holy Spirit, and fellowship. That Friday morning, I immersed myself in the first principle, confidence. The questions posed were simple yet profound: “What areas of your life do you feel confident in? And, how does that confidence impact your overall joy?”

My answer was immediate: teaching. After 25 years in the classroom, even seven years into retirement, my confidence in my ability to educate remained unwavering. The devotional then challenged me to consider how to cultivate greater confidence in God’s work in my life, based on that established confidence. My response, penned in my journal, was a tentative, “Perhaps I could get back in the classroom.”

The ink was barely dry when my phone rang. The caller ID revealed the principal of my former school. An invitation to substitute teach for the next few days followed. The timing was nothing short of miraculous, a clear affirmation that God was actively orchestrating my journey.

The following days were a testament to the power of aligning with one’s God-given purpose. Stepping back into the classroom was like returning to a familiar, beloved home. The confidence I held in my teaching ability translated into a tangible sense of joy. The familiar rhythm of the school day, the eager faces of the students, and the satisfaction of imparting knowledge filled a void I hadn’t fully recognized.

Remarkably, the restless mornings ceased. The usual tossing and turning were replaced with a sense of anticipation, a quiet contentment. I realized that my joy wasn’t merely tied to the act of teaching, but to the divine confirmation that I was operating within my purpose. This experience served as a powerful reminder that God’s timing is perfect, often exceeding our wildest expectations. He uses our strengths and passions to guide us, revealing his presence in the most unexpected ways. God is indeed good, all the time, and sometimes, he answers our whispered prayers with a ringing phone.

Michael Wilson is a devoted Christian husband of 37 years and father of two adult children. Upon leaving the classroom after 25 years, Michael volunteers at various ministries/organizations around the area. Michael “sharpens his saw” by creating and building around the house.

February 19, 2025

in DTOTD, Jesus, Mental Health

by cefiggins

1 Comment

The Darkness Has Not Overcome- DTOTD

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5

Before this particular winter season, I like to think I created the hashtag #Ihatecold. Before this year I despised winter. Not even joking, winter has always brought on intense panic for me. Before this season winter has always been a race for survival for me. I think I have felt truly threatened by what I perceived as the power of winter. The lack of yellow sunlight, the lack of warmth, the perceived prison of the indoors, the perpetual grayness, and the phrase “weather permitting” have always made me feel like I am suffocating as I will truly not survive another winter. My brain plays tricks on me that I really might not survive and depression and anxiety have ruled the day in the winter months. Even if we have crazy days of spring pop up like they leave me feeling yanked around and psychologically messed with. The darkness, and the lack of light, in the past have given me a feeling of fear that I had convinced myself I needed to fight off, not succumb to, to overcome myself. Instead of winter being a season of rest and a time to slow down, I have been frenzy not to let it “get me.” New journals, new self-help strategies, new bright-colored clothing, new light therapy, a new therapist anything I could think of to outrun the darkness. It has always been exhausting and it has rarely worked as winter deepens, the days are short; darkness claims more hours than light. In this season, it is too easy for me to feel the weight of the shadows—both physical and spiritual. The world can feel heavy, cold, and uncertain for me.

However…

Over Christmas, I found a book that has drastically changed my perspective and mindset about winter. How to Winter: Harness your Mindset to Thrive on Cold, Dark, and Difficult Days shares themes of anticipating winter, looking forward to the times of rest, allowing a sense of wonder and awe to lead how we view the world, and most importantly for me, to embrace the darkness of the season. This has been a key mind shift for me to not only survive winter but also reflect on my own walk with the Lord. I am not talking about embracing the darkness that Satan tempts us with. But more in how the author shares in this passage. “No other strategy embodies the spirit of shifting your wintertime mindset as completely as finding joy in the darkness: faced with something we have no power over, we can push back and complain or we can collaborate with the night to transform darkness from oppressive gloom to cozy wonder. “

When I read this part of the book, I was reminded of our decision to cooperate with the Holy Spirit as we find and follow Jesus. My spirit was convicted that I once again had walked right into one of Satan’s oldest and stupidest lies: that I am alone and must overcome alone with my strength and understanding.

But John 1:5 reminds us of a powerful truth: the light of Christ shines in the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it.

In the stillness of winter, the bare trees and silent cold may convince us that we will wait forever for warm sunny days, but waiting does not take away our joy. Just as creation rests during this time and waits to grow again, so we, too, are called to joyfully wait on the Lord because He is coming. I have always struggled with The Waiting. I feel I need to be doing something proactive. But Waiting is not a passive act; it requires a reaction of trust, surrender, and hope. It requires strength to let go and become weak. It is an invitation to lay down our burdens and let God take control.

So often, we want to fight our battles in the darkness, relying on our own strength, reasoning, or plans. We may feel we need to keep our battles in the darkness because no one else understands what we are going through or we can’t believe we are in this particular darkness again. Yet, our finite understanding can only be seen so far. Living life this way allows Satan to steal our joy. The battles we face—be they against fear, uncertainty, anxiety, or grief—are not ours to fight alone. As we read in Psalm 27:1 The Lord is our defender, our light, and our salvation.

I am wondering if you are like me and need to be reminded to take heart in knowing that Jesus is not intimidated by the darkness. He is not overwhelmed by the despair the winter seasons bring into our lives. He stepped into it, bringing a light that the shadows cannot extinguish. When we feel overwhelmed or unsure or overcome by the vastness of the darkness around us and in us, we can rest in and be joy-filled with His promise in Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”

As we enter hopefully the last part of this winter, let’s be brave together and wait in the darkness with a joy that really makes no sense for Jesus to rescue us. Once again, let’s surrender our struggles to the One who sees the end from the beginning. Let us trust in His light, and choose joy that illuminates the path even when it feels hidden. His light is not just for overcoming but for guiding, warming, and restoring. I pray the light of Christ fills and refills your heart today. I pray you feel His presence in a new way today and that it reminds you that darkness never has the final word. Be brave and joyfilled and rest as you wait in the darkness for your defender.

Prayer:

Hey God, thank You for being the light that shines in the darkness. In seasons of waiting, help us to trust in You and surrender our battles with the darkness into Your hands. Remind us that Your light is stronger than any shadow we face. Teach us again and again to rest in Your promises, knowing that You are our refuge and our strength. Be our defender, our source of joy, and our hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

August 21, 2024

in Discipleship, DTOTD

by Brendon

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Under the Fig Tree…

” Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ” We have found him of who Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.: Nathanael said to him, ” Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, ” Come and see. Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, ” Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” Nathanael said to him, ” How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, ” Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” – John 1: 45 -48

Doubt. Uncertainty. Confusion. Clouds of sorrow. Seasons of depression. Distractions.

These symptoms of life can be causes for concern and panic for most who experience them or even those who are around them. It is never easy to see a loved one, a friend or even yourself go through any of these moments in life. Our first inclination whenever someone experiences a season of “bad” is to help them fix it.

There have been times in my own life where all of these things have taken place, some of them all at once. The hard thing to grapple with as you are in them, is to ask God for help. Or better yet, to ask God to show himself during those times.

About 9 years ago, life was in all sorts of transitions. A new location to call home, new kid, new job, new situation, new financial questions to be asked and to be honest, I hit rock bottom. I was lost and confused after stepping away from a ministry that I had loved. I had, and still have, a wife that is way to gracious for me to even comprehend, especially during that season of our life. Two beautiful young children that I had the weight of taking care of and growing and teaching and nurturing. All the while, trying to plead with God to allow me to go back into ministry while I needed to heal and relearn who God was in my own life.

All of the symptoms that are listed above were symptoms that I masked the best I could. I laughed and played and experienced life as best as I could. However, deep down, I was curling in a ball wishing no one would ever find me, let alone see me in that way.

” When you were under the fig tree….I saw you.”

Not sure about you, but I can resonate with Nathanael in this calling. Here is how the rest played out:

” Nathanael answered him, ” Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, ” Because I said to you, ‘ I saw you under the fig tree,’ do you believe? You will see greater things than these.” And he said to him, ” Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” – John 1: 49-51

Nathanael was in a doubting place in his life. We see it from his reaction to Jesus being from Nazareth. There was a sense of sarcastic doubt when Philip told him about Jesus the first time. But yet, the moment Jesus see’s Nathanael, Jesus reveals something to Nathanael that Nathanael couldn’t believe.

Not only does Jesus combat Nathanael’s sarcastic doubt, he encourages him, builds him up and then promises him he will see even more than Jesus seeing him under the fig tree.

When we are walking through these seasons of doubt, depression, sarcastic doubt, unbelief, confusion, sorrow, even uncertainty, know this:

Jesus see’s you there.

Right where you are.

He doesn’t go looking for you in the places that you won’t be. He doesn’t go looking for you in the places that you should be. Jesus doesn’t go looking…..

Jesus already see’s you.

As I trudged through the mud that I was stuck in for years, there was a moment in time when I realized….. That Jesus saw me and knew me and grabbed me by the hand and lead me to where He wanted me to go. Just like when Philip in Acts 8 was told to go to a specific road and to be ready…. Jesus saw me. He saw I needed him. He sees me now, knowing I need him more than back then. Whatever season in life you find yourself in…

Jesus see’s you.

As hard as it is sometimes to know and remember and lean into, take the time to meditate/contemplate that you are seen and known by the son of Man and that no matter where you find yourself in life…

Jesus, see’s you.

June 13, 2024

in DTOTD, HCC, Jesus

by cefiggins

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Unity in the Spirit- Why should we care?

No one believes me that I am an introvert hiding in bright-colored clothing. I can draw a lot of attention but it’s very easy for me to disappear on a trail or behind a book. I find it especially easy separate myself from the crowd when I am tired, weary, grumpy, stressed, hurried, overscheduled, confused, hurt, or at the very least struggling with low blood sugar. 🙂 The long and short of it is that given my own devices I am more likely to separate from the pack. However, I have this tension within me that I also firmly believe that unity within our community is foundational to living out our faith in Christ. Ephesians 4:3, which calls us to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” serves as a guiding principle for the people of God. This verse is not just an encouragement; it is a call to action, a reminder of the importance of maintaining harmony and friendship within the body of Christ.

But why should we care?

The Call to Unity

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is a profound exploration of what it means to live as a Christian. In Ephesians 4:3, Paul emphasizes the necessity of unity among believers. This unity is not merely a superficial agreement but a deep, spiritual bond that reflects the unity of the Holy Spirit. It is through the Spirit that we are connected, regardless of our diverse backgrounds, opinions, personal preferences or sleep schedules. God inspired Paul to teach us that we all tend to pull away from each other or break off and form factions.

Making Every Effort

The phrase “make every effort” indicates that maintaining unity requires intentional and persistent effort. It is not something that happens by chance or without work. As Christ followers, we have to strive to embody this through how we schedule our time, and how we use our talents, to enable us to connect through various ministries, life groups, and outreach efforts. We have to understand that unity involves active participation and commitment from each member to each other.

The Bond of Peace

Peace is the glue that holds unity together. It is a peace that transcends understanding, rooted in the love and grace of Christ. This peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of reconciliation and love. I love how God tells us over and over again in His word that it is not our peace we are looking for. It is His peace. We are kind of stinky when it comes to keeping the peace on our own. It’s becoming more and more common to look for ways to not be peaceful. But we have God’s peace that is a whole different story. During trying uncertain times we need to make a priority to promote peace through open communication, patience, forgiveness, and a willingness to understand and support one another.

How do we keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace with each other?

Prayer: We need to pray for one another and with one another. Prayer puts us in a proper posture of humility. Prayer is a powerful tool that strengthens our spiritual bond and fosters unity.
Life Groups: Joining a small group or a bible study is an excellent way to build relationships and experience the unity of the Spirit. These groups can provide a safe space for sharing, learning, and growing together. The more time you spend with someone the more you get to know them more patience and empathy you can have for them.
Serve Teams: Serving together in ministries and community projects unites us in purpose and mission. It allows us to put our faith into action and support one another in tangible ways. There is nothing better than witnessing each other love others because of how God first loved us to tie us together.
Forgiveness: Embracing a spirit of forgiveness is crucial for maintaining unity. We are all human and will inevitably make mistakes. Having patience with one another, assuming the best about each other, choosing to forgive and seek reconciliation helps preserve the bond of peace.

This week commit yourself again to making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Reflect on Ephesians 4:3, Be inspired to live out this call in your daily life continually seeking ways to foster unity and peace within our church and the broader community. When we are rooted in love and bound together in peace and unity we can withstand any level of chaos. Through our collective efforts, we can be a powerful witness to the transformative power of Christ’s love.

June 1, 2024

in DTOTD, HCC, Jesus

by cefiggins

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How do you know? DTOTD

At our recent leadership retreat, Nikomas asked this question.

How do you know God is good to you?

It should be an easy answer, right? But it took me more than a hot minute to find the words. My brain had to rifle through its files to find the evidence of God’s goodness. In Psalm 34:8 David writes, “Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see— how good GOD is. Blessed are you who run to him.” We can perceive God’s goodness in so many ways. How could I pick just one? I almost experienced a feeling of panic trying to think of what I was going to say when it was my turn. How do I nail it down to something brief and concise?

Then I realized why I was really struggling with how to answer how God is good. I know His goodness is evidenced in His love by sending His one and only son to be sacrificed for our sins. I know His goodness is evidenced by His faithfulness over and over again to His people. I know His goodness is evidenced by the good works God’s children were created to do all over the world.

I was struggling with the answer to the full question of how I know God is good TO ME.

In all transparency, I can share God’s love with whomever. It is my deepest desire for the world to know just how much God loves them. I need the world to know the freedom of resting in the sacrifice of Christ. But sometimes I listen to Satan’s whispers that God’s love is for everyone else but me. His sneaky lies start to somehow ring true that I have not earned God’s goodness yet. My heart knows the real truth. My mouth can speak the real truth. But my mind can be a battleground.

In that one minute of uncomfortableness and discomfort, the Holy Spirit spoke on my behalf.

I know God is good to me because He calls me His baby girl.

This identity breathes new life into me every day. It is the sweetest and most filling thing I can taste. It is a sight of awe and wonder that my eyes will never tire of seeing. I am blessed with God’s goodness as I run back to my Father’s arms again and again.

How do you know that God is good to you?

DTOTD

Expanding Our Definition of “Neighbor”

Serving as a Bridge to the Gospel

Taking It to the Streets

Reflection & Discussion Questions

What the Disciples Did After the Resurrection

What Changed Everything

What Do We Do Now?

Scripture to Explore

Journal Questions

A Simple Prayer

Reflection Questions

Intercessory Prayer

The Call to Unity

Making Every Effort

The Bond of Peace

How do we keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace with each other?

From the HCC Outreach Team: