Many things have changed over the last four weeks as a result of God speaking to us through scripture, prayer, Hope Lives, and his people. Some examples…

We’ve substantially increased the part of our budget that we give away with a view toward giving more real soon. (Please, pray for some decisions being made next week.) This has been an absolute joy. When I think of the cheerful giver in 2 Corinthians 9, I’ve always thought that the being cheerful preceded the actual giving. I now believe that the opposite is true, too. When we give we become cheerful.

We’ve moved from a two vehicle family to a one vehicle and one bicycle family. This has economic, social, (dare I say) political, and spiritual ramifications for us–all pointing to having enough, moving toward equality, and “suffering with” in a small way.

We’re getting the Church and the church involved.

Above all, our worldview is developing. We’re grateful for how the Lord has been patient with us in bringing us to this point and we look forward to more.

Can you believe that there’ll be a day when all this stuff we’re doing about poverty will be obsolete?

We won’t have to imagine.

Both these days are devoted to extended periods of prayer and journaling so Mindy and I are doing just that.

Donald S. Whitney in his book, Spiritual Disciplines For The Christian Life, alliterates that “Discipline without direction is drudgery.” My direction is becoming clearer and this helps me with the disciplines I (need to) observe. Especially in the area of fasting though not just from food. It’s one of the first ways I can “suffer with.”

I’m excited to consider and plan a more structured way to pray for the world and the people in it.

However, the truth is that it’s not the first time I’ve done this. So I pray..

“Lord change my heart as I pray. Move me ever closer to your love for your people and your heart that bleeds compassion for the suffering of your children. Protect me from indifference, apathy, and distractions of many kinds. May my prayers for others work to change their lives and mine. For your glory. Amen”

I’m still reading. I’m still loving it and learning. I’m humbled and grateful to have clarity where to begin on this journey of loving and serving the poor. On my knees. So simple. So profound. I am helpless to change the world, but nothing is impossible for Him.

I want my prayer life to be rad. I think Jesus does, too.

Dear Lord,

Right now, please give a sign of your goodness to every child suffering from injustice at this very moment so that their enemies may see it and be put to shame.