Pastor Chris invites us to consider how we might grow in self-awareness in this new year; gaining insight about our "blind-spots", humbly acknowledging places in our lives and hearts that long for transformation, while finding great comfort in the perfect love of our Father and Creator.
Text
Matthew 6: 19-24
Matthew 7: 1-5
Matthew 3: 17
Genesis 3: 12
“Ignoring our emotions is turning our back on reality; listening to our emotions ushers us into reality. And reality is where we meet God … Emotions are the language of the soul. They are the cry that gives the heart a voice … However, we often turn a deaf ear — through emotional denial, distortion, or disengagement. We strain out anything disturbing in order to gain tenuous control of our inner world. We are frightened and ashamed of what leaks into our consciousness. In neglecting our intense emotions, we are false to ourselves and lose a wonderful opportunity to know God. We forget that change comes through brutal honesty and vulnerability before God.”
-Dan Allender and Tremper Longman III
Reflection
Chris invited you to consider your own "blind spots" by doing the difficult work of asking, and listening from those who know you best, and you trust will speak in truth and compassion. Who might that person be for you?
When you hear about the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5, which do you receive as needing greater intentional focus to cultivate?
If you're interested in knowing more about the Enneagram, a good place to start would be this podcast mentioned by Chris. The Liturgists (Michael Gungor & "Science Mike" McHargue) speak with Ian Cron and Suzanne Stabile.
Worship Set
I Need Thee Every Hour
Be Thou My Vision
Leaning On The Everlasting Arms
It Is Well (With My Soul)
Psalm 34 (Taste And See)
Only Trust Him
Come Light Our Hearts