Going Viral Galilee Style

The other day I was reading through the Gospel of Matthew, and something kept jumping off the page at me—the word all. Not some, not many, not a handful. Over and over Matthew says Jesus healed “all” who were sick.

And if you pause long enough to picture the scenes Matthew is describing, you realize these weren’t tiny groups. They were massive crowds… entire towns… sometimes small cities. Which led me to a question:

How many people was Jesus actually healing?

And then the bigger question:

How did Jesus grow His ministry so quickly without the internet, social media, email lists, marketing funnels, or TV broadcasts?

How did tens of thousands of people come to hear about Him when it took days—sometimes weeks—to travel across the region?

Well… when you begin to look at the numbers, it suddenly makes sense.
Below are some staggering estimates that help reveal just how “viral” Jesus’ ministry truly was—Galilee style.

Occurrences in Matthew Where Jesus Heals “All”

Matthew repeatedly emphasizes crowds, villages, towns, and whole regions being healed. Here are the references:

• 4:23 — Healed every disease and sickness among the people

• 4:24 — They brought the sick, and He healed them all

• 8:16 — He healed all who were sick

• 8:17 — Summary of His healing ministry

• 9:6 — Heals the paralytic

• 9:12 — “The sick need a physician”

• 9:21–22 — Woman with the issue of blood

• 9:25 — Raises a dead girl

• 9:35 — Healed every disease and sickness

• 10:1 — Disciples given authority to heal

• 12:13 — Man with withered hand

• 12:15 — Large crowds; He healed all

• 12:22 — Blind, mute, demon-possessed man

• 14:14 — He healed their sick

• 14:35–36 — All who touched Him were healed

• 15:28 — Canaanite woman’s daughter

• 15:30–31 — Great crowds; He healed the lame, blind, crippled, mute

• 17:18 — Demon-possessed boy

• 19:2 — He healed them there

• 20:34 — Two blind men healed

Matthew doesn’t just record miracles—he records repeated waves of them.

Historical Estimates: Crowds, Populations & Numbers Healed

These are reasonable historical approximations based on:

• Typical population sizes in 1st-century Galilee

• Sickness rates (8–12%)

• Likely crowds and travel patterns

• Matthew’s language of “all,” “every,” “great multitudes,” etc.

Estimated Total Healed in the Book of Matthew

≈ 11,000 – 29,000 people

And that’s just one Gospel writer, and only the events he chose to record.

Think about that.

Thousands—possibly tens of thousands—of people healed.
In a world with:

• no phones

• no cars

• no news outlets

• no viral videos
   

Yet somehow, the entire region exploded with the news of Jesus.

This is what “going viral” looked like before the internet.

Eyes suddenly seeing.
Legs suddenly walking.
Mute voices suddenly shouting.
Demonic oppression suddenly broken.
Dead children suddenly alive again.

You don’t need Wi-Fi when the miracles walk home and knock on doors.

When Jesus heals a whole village, news doesn’t spread—it erupts.

Why This Matters Today

After looking at the numbers, it’s easy to understand how Jesus’ ministry spread with such unstoppable force.

But here’s the part we can’t miss:

Jesus is still healing today.

Miracle after miracle is happening around the world.
God’s hand is moving in ways that should leave us in awe—yet if we’re not careful, the miraculous becomes “normal.” We scroll past it. We shrug at it. We forget that God is still showing His love in ways that defy explanation.

Tonight, pause long enough to notice.
Let the wonder return.
Let gratitude rise.

Let Jesus take up residence in your heart again.

Be amazed at what He’s done…
Be amazed at what He’s doing…
And don’t keep it to yourself.

Just like the travelers who spread the news all across Galilee, someone around you needs to hear what God has done.

He’s still healing.
He’s still working.
And He’s still going viral—one life, one testimony at a time.

Activate Your Work | 3 Stories

Connecting Our Hearts and Hands

There’s momentum forming in the hearts of men and women in a way I haven’t seen before. That’s not to say it’s never happened—it just hasn’t been this obvious to me until now.

There’s a genuine struggle for purpose rising up in believers today. For those who call Jesus their Lord and Savior, a real sense of urgency is building—one that’s stirring a specific kind of desire. I’ve watched leaders of companies and owners of small businesses begin asking questions about service, obedience, and sacrifice.

And it’s not a passive curiosity. They want to activate their work. They’re looking for ways to make a real difference—not for their bottom line, but for people. For their communities. For those in need. For their employees.

They want to connect the desire of their heart to the work of their hands.
And that’s a beautiful thing.

Example #1: Healing Through the Hands of Caregivers

This week I spoke with the founder of a physical therapy and fitness company. They’re already going against the grain of traditional healthcare by going deeper with each patient—treating people, not just problems.

But they understand there’s more to each story than what’s happening in the body. They’ve started offering prayer with clients, finding new ways to serve in their community, and are now preparing to put their finances to work for the Lord—helping people beyond their own walls.

It’s incredible to watch a team “working on the body” in a way that is holy and pleasing to God.

Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy,
to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
 

Example #2: Building for the Glory of God

Another conversation was with the owner of a local construction company—a man who loves Jesus, loves his people, and wants his employees to understand how their work matters to God.

He asked me a question that made me think:

“Can digging a hole honor God or have an impact on heaven?”

My answer was simple: Yes, it can.

Colossians 3:23–24
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Ecclesiastes 3:13
“That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.”

God sees our work—no matter what it is—and knows our hearts. Finding satisfaction in our service goes beyond the task itself. Holes need to be dug. Foundations need to be poured. Work was created for us to do.

But what transforms that work is who we do it for.

This business owner’s desire to align his company’s goals with giving is deeply inspiring. Committing his finances to the Lord through the tithe might just transform more than his business—it could transform lives.

That hole being dug serves its purpose. But the dollars earned from that hole?
Those could become a donation that changes someone’s eternity—a meal for a hungry child, counseling for a trafficked teen, or a warm bed for a single mother.

Those are impacts worth digging for.

Example #3: Sweetness with a Purpose

Lastly, I met the owner of a chocolate and sweets company. His entrepreneurial journey has taken many forms, but one constant has been his desire to serve the Lord through his work.

His current venture—crafting fine chocolate—might seem like an ordinary business. But his mission is extraordinary: to share God’s love with every box and every piece of candy. Each one includes inspiring verses and messages of hope. Now, they’re even creating a family space where the joy of chocolate meets the goodness of God.

A normal treat transformed into a tool for testimony.

1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above…”
(Even chocolate!)

God Is Moving

These stories didn’t unfold over months or years—they all happened within the last 48 hours.

God is moving in the hearts of business owners across every field—physical therapy, construction, and even chocolate making. Different industries. Same Spirit. Each one capable of being used for eternal impact and God’s glory.

If you’re reading this and wondering how your work might make a difference for Christ, reach out. We’d love to connect, pray with you, and help you discover the ways your work can become worship.

A community is forming at Tithe Foundation. Momentum is growing. The Holy Spirit is stirring hearts and hands into motion.

Search your heart. Ask God to show you His path forward.
And then — get in the game.

-Mark

2 Stories, 2 Opportunities

Kingdom Opportunities

This past weekend I was hit with some perspective—a powerful reminder of why we must stay alert for Kingdom opportunities wherever we are. I want to share two stories: one personal, the other through the eyes of my team. Together, they paint a picture of how God continues to move through the everyday lives of His people.

As we pursue business, family, and personal obligations, it’s easy to forget that Jesus is actively at work all around us. But we—His church—are called to be His hands and feet. While He can move wherever and however He wants, He most often chooses to move through us. He works through the willing.

Friday Night in Indianapolis

I was in Indianapolis for a golf event, staying in an Airbnb downtown. While my family, friends, and I were enjoying a fun evening inside, someone outside was experiencing one of the worst moments of their life.

My brother and I heard a car horn repeatedly honking in an unusual way. We looked out the window and saw a lone vehicle with the lights on in a nearby lot. We decided to step outside and check it out. What we found was heartbreaking.

A young woman named Lilly was in the car, going through a severe mental and emotional crisis. We called for emergency help, but while waiting, we began speaking with her through the window. Little by little, she opened up. We assured her that she was not alone, that God saw her, and that He loved her deeply, even in this darkest of moments. We were able to pray with her, comfort her, and help her to see that God had sent us there for her. It was no mistake.

She made it through the night. But the memory has stayed with me because it was such a clear example of a Kingdom opportunity. One we could have missed had we ignored the moment.

Saturday: Beds for Kids

On Saturday, some of our team members delivered beds to children in need around our city. Just 15 minutes from where most of us live, they encountered families living in some rough conditions. Children were sleeping on floors or in very inadequate arrangements. It was sobering to see, which wasn't new for this team.

But it was also motivating.

Our team’s love for the people they served was evident. I heard the stories when they returned, and while my heart often breaks for the realities others face, it also leaps with hope when I witness the compassion and generosity of those I get to work with. God is clearly on the move—through people who are willing to serve in whatever ways they can.

The Scriptures I Can’t Shake

There are two verses I haven’t been able to shake this week:

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
— Matthew 25:40

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
— Luke 10:36–37

I can’t shake these verses for two reasons:

First, Jesus has already done everything for us. His invitation in Matthew 25, that when we care for others, it’s counted as if we’ve done it for Him is stunning. He knows each of us so well and loves us so deeply that when we show love to others, He receives it as love for Himself. That’s a beautiful truth.

Second, Jesus gives us a command in the parable of the Good Samaritan: “Go and do likewise.” That means when we see need, when we're wronged, when someone around us needs mercy, we must react. Being a neighbor, being a follower of Christ, means loving the people Jesus loves. And who does He love? Everyone.

The Opportunity Ahead

Sometimes Kingdom opportunities won’t be convenient. Sometimes they’ll disrupt your schedule or stretch your comfort zone. But the Holy Spirit is undefeated in introducing the right moment for His people to act.

Let’s keep our eyes open this week. Let’s live with purpose and compassion, remembering that God is on the move—and He wants to move through us!

-Mark

The Clock Is Winding Down

I had breakfast this morning with a friend who always leaves me feeling both challenged and encouraged. I know he left feeling the same. We do that for each other. There’s something powerful about friendships like that, ones that sharpen and stir you toward something greater.

One part of our conversation struck us both in a deep and uncomfortable way. We talked about the tension between our desire to do meaningful work for the eternal Kingdom of God and the reality of living in a world full of distractions, distortions, and detours. Sometimes those distractions don't just slow us down, they stop us altogether. They keep us from starting the very things God may be calling us to do.

We let ideas and callings lie dormant, waiting for a “someday” that may never come.

That thought stuck with me all day.

Earlier this week, another friend passed along a sermon from Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell of 2819 Church. It was about the signs of the times and being ready.  Like really ready. Whether Christ returns in our lifetime or we meet Him when ours is over, the call is the same: Be found faithful.

One specific part of Jesus’ words in Matthew 24 hit me like a freight train:

Matthew 24:6–8
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.
All these are the beginning of birth pains.”

Birth pains. That phrase—Matthew 24:8—landed differently this time.

I’ve read that verse before, and I always assumed “birth pains” meant we still had a long way to go. But that’s not how birth pains actually work. Birth pains don’t start at conception. They don't come in the 1st, 2nd, or even most of the 3rd trimester. They come very near to the end, and as the moment of delivery draws closer, they intensify. They become more frequent and more severe.

That realization opened my eyes.

We are living in the time of contractions. The pressure is mounting. The urgency is growing. The clock is winding down.

Whether Christ returns soon or we meet Him at the end of our personal race, the time to act is now. This is not the season for passive faith. It’s not time to coast, check out, or hope someone else takes responsibility for making Jesus known.

We are the Church.
We are His hands and feet.
And we’ve been given our time, talents, treasure—and even our reputations—to steward for His glory.

That was the conversation at breakfast this morning. It wasn’t just casual encouragement; it was a call to wake up, press in, and step out. Use your gifts. Pick up the cross assigned to you. The Holy Spirit is present and ready to move through anyone who walks in step with Him.

It won’t be easy. But it will be worth it.

So here’s my challenge to you, as it was to me:

Don’t wait.
Not another week, not another year, not for a perfect moment that may never come.
The clock is winding down. Time to take the shots.  

-Mark

An Army Is Rising!

Week after week, I feel this happening. I see it with my own eyes. If I didn’t see it, I might not believe it. But I’m here to tell you that it’s the truth. 

An army is rising—like one I’ve never seen before. It’s the leaders and the doers in business. Their yearning for more is beginning to take shape. Rather than work simply for the here and now, they want something more significant. They want real influence that lasts. And they’re finding it. Honoring God with their work and making a lasting impact beyond the dollars and cents of their product or service is their aim.

Today, I met with four business guys—all back to back. Their expertise ranges from financial planning to real estate development, all the way to SaaS sales. The common thread? A love for Jesus, and a desire to use their influence and network to grow God’s Kingdom and make Him even more known.

God isn’t new at assembling armies. At times, He does it through humanity. Other times, He does the heavy lifting on His own. I’m reminded of an army that was assembled from the least expected of places in Ezekiel—from the dead and dry bones laid before him. Let’s read from Ezekiel Chapter 37:

3 He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?”
I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.”
4 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!’
‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’”
10 So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army.

The army of business and marketplace believers is being assembled. Our work matters quite a bit to God. He’s not as much worried about our success for earthly gain, but He does want us to be wildly successful—all with a motive to honor Him with our gifts, and to use what we obtain to make some noise and shake things up for His Kingdom. To let the light of Christ shine through us. At work, at home, in leisure, and in rest.

The silent army may have been considered dead. The marketplace may have been thought of as taken over by the secular. But a breath of life has been spoken over a multitude, and I believe it’s just getting started. Our work will indeed become sacred again.

For those already living this way—we’re about to be joined! We’ll need you to help mentor the next generation hungry for more.

The army is assembling—time to have some fun!

For any interested in talking more or learning how to process what's next - message me directly! 

-Mark

Real Urgency.

Today, I had lunch with a man I believe to be a living legend, Dr. Duke Heller. He’s likely the oldest living pioneer in the field of dental implants, a global award-winner, a published author, a generous influencer who’s shaped university dental programs, a mentor to high-profile college coaches, and a friend to some of the biggest voices in personal development.

But here’s the most powerful thing: Duke has used every bit of that influence not for his own glory, but to spread the love and truth of the gospel. He’s led thousands to Christ. Not just from the pulpits or conference stages he's spoken through, but through one-on-one conversations, right across the table from someone like me. At 87 he isn't slowing down.  He's just released another book, speaking at more conferences than ever, and volunteering consistently with multiple outreach groups. I learned a lot today, but here are the top 3.

Wisdom from Duke:

1. Time is Short—And Eternity is Real.
I said that Dr. Heller is 87. He’s seen friends, family, and colleagues pass on. Some expectedly, others suddenly. The reality? Life is fragile. The days we’re given are uncertain and few. We must live with the urgency of eternity. Sharing Jesus isn’t something we can keep putting off. It’s the most important thing we can do.

2. One Bold Question Can Open the Door.
Duke looked me in the eye today and said, “Can I ask you a personal question?”
I said yes.
“Can you tell me the exact time you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior?”
That question hit me. Not because I didn’t know the answer, but because of the power it carried. It can spark deep reflection on that moment or open a conversation that changes someone’s life forever. Sometimes, it only takes one Spirit-led question to shift someone’s entire eternity.

3. There’s No Time Left for Fear.
I spent years afraid to talk to friends and family about Jesus. I didn’t want to be “that guy” or seem weird. I was fine playing it safe. But now? I can’t imagine keeping quiet. I still struggle sometimes, especially with people close to me, but God is working on that in me.
And here’s the truth: we have the answer to eternal life. How can we justify keeping it to ourselves?

Duke gave me some of his personal resources today I plan to read. But more than that, he gave me a living example of selfless giving—of what it looks like to finish life well.

So why write this?
To honor a man who isn’t coasting into the sunset but sprinting across the finish line with purpose and passion. And to remind you (and myself) that we are called to live with real urgency. Our purpose isn’t just about this life. It’s about preparing ourselves and others for the life to come.

If you're like me—sometimes afraid, sometimes unsure—ask the Holy Spirit for courage and wisdom. He’ll give it. And when in doubt… be like Duke!

-Mark

Staying Hungry

I just left a meeting deeply inspired by three guys who are changing the game. They’re giving a generation of college and professional athletes a platform to magnify Christ and boldly share their faith with millions across the country.

The crazy thing? They don’t even realize how special it is, because they’re in the thick of it. Head down. Focused. Faithful. They’re using their gifts, talents, networks, and time to lift up others. They’re thinking of themselves last. While each of them has real personal needs, it’s the mission that carries them forward. That mission is the fuel that keeps them grinding.  I'm talking producing content, traveling, editing, and working at a pace most of us would buckle under.

These guys are hungry.

But not for food.
Not for money.
Not for recognition.

They’re hungry in the way Jesus described:

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
– Matthew 5:6

They’re seeking the Kingdom. Hungry to be useful to Jesus and His call to spread the gospel and make disciples. They’re doing it at a cost.

One walked away from career opportunities that most young men would jump at.

Another has a massive personal platform in the sports and media world, but spends countless hours editing, traveling, and shooting content for the ministry.

The third is using his business skills and data analytics to help the team stay focused, measuring impact, and ensuring the mission doesn’t drift.

Their lives remind me of another promise from Jesus:

“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
– Matthew 6:31–33

I believe Jesus. And these men should take heart in His words.
They hunger and thirst for righteousness.
Jesus promises—they will be filled.
They are seeking first His Kingdom, and so, their needs will be met. Because their priorities are rightly ordered.

What I saw today was a deep level of trust in action. These guys are hungry to grow. They’re asking the right questions. They’re sharpening their skills. They’re not losing sight of the mission—they’re doubling down on it. The aim of their ministry is pure, and the effort they’re pouring into it is beautiful to witness.

It’s also a ton of fun to watch.

My businesses will be supporting their work in various ways. If you’re someone interested in partnering with or donating to a ministry that’s actively inspiring the next generation, I’ve listed their website and social media links below. Check them out. Support them. Share their story.

And most importantly—let their example inspire you.
Seek the Kingdom today, right where you are, in whatever you’re doing.

Because if we believe the words of Jesus, then we know this:

When we stay hungry for the right things—
We will be filled.
We will be a blessing.
And we will be blessed.

God bless you!

-Mark

Monday Faith...

This Easter, we heard an incredible message at church.  A retelling of the greatest moment in human history: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But what stood out most wasn't just the moment he rose from the grave.  It was what happened right before.

Despite Jesus telling his followers repeatedly that he would suffer, die, and rise again on the third day, no one was tailgating outside the tomb on Sunday morning. No crowd had gathered to witness the most glorious event since time began. Instead, the disciples, those who knew him best, were hidden away in fear and grief.

The first to encounter the risen Lord wasn’t Peter, or James, or John—it was Mary Magdalene. In one deeply personal moment, Jesus simply says her name: “Mary.” (John 20:16). She runs to tell the others. But look at how they respond:

“She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.”
—Mark 16:10–11 

Later that evening, Jesus appears to the disciples for the first time. Where are they?

“On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’”
—John 20:19 

They were afraid. They were filled with unbelief. These men had walked with Jesus for three years. They had heard his teachings, witnessed his miracles, and been told exactly what would happen. And still...they hid.

But then everything changed.

Once they saw the risen Christ—once they touched the wounds, heard his voice, and received the Holy Spirit—these same men became unstoppable. Fear turned into faith. Cowardice turned into courage. Silence turned into boldness.

And they would go on to give everything, even their lives, to proclaim the truth of Jesus.

Here’s how some of the disciples’ lives ended:

• Matthew was killed by a sword in Ethiopia.

• Peter was crucified upside down, feeling unworthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.

• James (Jerusalem) was thrown from the temple to a massive death fall and then beaten to death with clubs when he survived.

• James (Son of Zebedee) was beheaded and preached Jesus up until the axe fell —his Roman guard even converted because of his great faith and was executed alongside of him.

• Bartholomew (Nathaniel) was flayed alive with whips in Armenia.

• Andrew was whipped and crucified on an X-shaped cross, preaching to his executioners for two days as he slowly expired.

• Thomas was speared to death in India.

• Matthias (who replaced Judas) was stoned and beheaded.

• Paul was tortured and beheaded in Rome after a long and brutal imprisonment.

• John survived being boiled in oil live for Romans to be entertained - survived and preached the gospel to them while being boiled, was exiled to Patmos after the Roman Emperor was overcome with fear of him where he wrote the book of Revelation, and died of old age—the only apostle to die peacefully.

These men once trembled in fear. But after encountering the risen Christ, they could not be silenced. Nothing mattered more than telling everyone who would listen about Jesus. They poured out their lives, their energy, and their every breath for the Kingdom.

And here's the question this Easter Monday:
What about us?

Most of us will never face a cross or a whip. But we have our own “costs”: our reputations, our bank accounts, our calendars, our social media feeds. These reveal the story of our lives—and whether we’re living for ourselves or for Christ.

So let’s not just celebrate Easter with Sunday faith.

Let’s live with Monday Faith—the kind of faith that moves from private belief to public conviction. The kind that doesn't hide in fear, but boldly proclaims, in word and deed, “Jesus is Lord.”

Our time on earth is short, but our mission is clear:
Glorify God. Love others.
Use your gifts. Live the gospel.
And help as many people as possible encounter the risen Christ.

May this Easter Monday be more than just a post-celebration.
May it be the beginning of a bold, joyful, Spirit-filled life—
the kind that can only be lived by someone who has seen the empty tomb
and knows that Jesus is alive.

Let’s go live like it.
Let’s live with Monday Faith.

-Mark

Mission Fields: You're In One

Influence and the Mission of Christ

This morning, I had the opportunity to meet with a group of men for early morning Bible study and encouragement. Our focus was on our various missions—both within our companies and within our personal networks. The question arose: Are we building a life, or are we aiming at heaven? The answer, in short, is BOTH. While we are here on earth, we participate in eternity.

Heaven and earth have intersected since the dawn of time, but even more so since Jesus assumed His heavenly throne and gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit. Our instructions to love the Lord our God with all of our hearts and to love our neighbors are just as alive today as they will be when we are in Heaven. As Jesus departed, He declared that all power in Heaven and earth had been given to Him, and then He gave us instructions—The Great Commission:

Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations,” meaning the mission extends beyond church walls into workplaces, schools, and communities.

Lesson: Not everyone is called to the same mission field, but all are called to advance God’s Kingdom where they are.

Our role is to make our workstation our worship station, aligning our missions of doing business within the world with being a light for Christ. We all do this in different ways, reflecting the truth that we are the Body of Christ:

1 Corinthians 12:12-27 Paul describes believers as different parts of one body, each with a specific function. The hand is not the foot, the eye is not the ear, but all are necessary.

Lesson: We are all called to serve in different ways—some as pastors, some as business leaders, some as community builders—but all contribute to the Kingdom.

These thoughts should encourage us!  Rather than God presenting Himself in an otherworldly spectacle, He chooses to reveal Himself through His church—through those who believe and carry Him within their hearts. That’s us, Christians.

So, as we wind down for the weekend, take a moment to reflect on your schedule for next week. What lies ahead is not just a mundane calendar of duties. It is an intersection of heaven and earth, waiting for you to respond so that the Father and Son can reveal themselves to others through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Are you ready?

-Mark

R-Words | These 4 are Good for Us

Returning with New Energy

I've written some this week about slowing down and taking intentional steps. Rest, reflection, and re-charging are definitely important aspects of work. We don't often think of these words as being related to action and work, but God sure did. Even in His initial creation in Genesis 1-2, He reflected on what He had brought forth and rested after six days of labor. We, too, should model this trend so that we can return with newfound energy and direction for our efforts.

I love these four R-words: Rest, Reflection, Re-Charging, and Return. A great pattern for renewed passion.

We see this happen to a popular Old Testament figure as well.

Elijah’s Renewal (1 Kings 19:1-18) – After a period of intense ministry, the prophet Elijah became exhausted and discouraged. God allowed him to rest, eat, and regain strength before sending him back to his prophetic work. This highlights the importance of rest before returning to work with fresh energy.

The key message here is that God does send us back out. If we're still breathing, we still have work to do. We still have purpose. These R-words help us pursue that purpose to the fullest.

I needed all of the first three this week as I prepare to execute on #4—Returning! Spring Break has been excellent, but I am ready to re-enter my purpose for the week ahead.

What R-word do you need to practice this week? Time to get started.

-Mark

Put on Your Oxygen Mask

The Importance of Daily Renewal Before Influencing Others

An analogy was shared with me today by a good friend and pastor that I had not considered before. We were discussing the significance of daily renewal in Christ. Turning our attention and energy toward Him before stepping into the world. He asked if I had ever truly paid attention to the safety instructions before a plane takes off. I had to admit that, despite taking plenty of flights, I hadn’t actively listened to that spiel in years. However, I did remember the part he referenced:

"If there is a cabin pressure change and oxygen masks are required, flight attendants urge passengers to first put their own mask on before assisting those around them."

He then asked me why they suggest this. I responded, "I’m no good to anyone around me if I’m also suffocating." Exactly. Don’t you just love pastors? They often make a point so clearly that no further explanation is needed. We just laughed.

Many of us step into the world each day with great intentions. We want to honor God, love others, and make a meaningful impact. But often, we lack the stamina or mindset to sustain those efforts throughout the day. My favorite Bible verse—one that is actually on my license plate—is Romans 12:2:

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

The renewing of our minds transforms us into unique and energized instruments of God. By seeking Him daily, allowing Him to refresh us, and staying connected to His presence, we can assist others in the world without falling into the same patterns or processes they use. We essentially "put our oxygen mask on first" so that we can help others in their battles while being sustained by the very source that gives us life.

The life we receive in Christ is better than oxygen—His renewing love and peace equip us for our daily pursuits. If you find yourself in need of renewal, take a moment to examine your routines. Give God space each day to renew and transform your mind, so that you may more fully pursue His good, pleasing, and perfect will!

-Mark

Spiritual Entrepreneurship: Moving Beyond the "Silent Saved"

Today, I had coffee with another Christian business owner. We had a fantastic conversation that spanned business life, our backgrounds, our love of cabins in the Hocking Hills area, and, of course, our faith. One of the commonalities we shared was our desire to use our work and the proceeds of our businesses to influence more than just earthly accumulation. We both understand that not all jobs will have a direct line drawn to something eternal, but the motives behind how we use our influence and revenues certainly can.

Business and work are vitally important in this world. God understands that more than anyone, because work was His invention. In fact, the act of creation itself was work, which is why He rested on the seventh day. But our work can have much more meaning. Any of us, whether we own businesses or not, can be spiritual entrepreneurs—striving each day to be a startup for Jesus in the lives of those we encounter.

A great biblical example of a spiritual entrepreneur is Lydia, a businesswoman whose story in the New Testament offers key lessons for us today. Her story, found in Acts 16:14-15, provides a powerful example of how business success can be used to further God’s kingdom.

1. Lydia’s Business and Wealth

• The Bible describes Lydia as a merchant of purple cloth, which was a highly valuable and luxurious fabric in the ancient world.

• Purple dye was rare and expensive, often associated with royalty and the wealthy, meaning Lydia likely catered to an elite clientele.

• Her ability to operate in this industry suggests she was a savvy entrepreneur, well-connected, and financially successful.

• She was also the head of her household, implying she was either unmarried, widowed, or independently wealthy.

2. Lydia’s Spiritual Life

• The Bible notes that Lydia was a “worshiper of God” (Acts 16:14), meaning she was a Gentile who revered the God of Israel, similar to a proselyte.

• When Paul and his companions arrived in Philippi and spoke to a group of women by the river, Lydia was among them.

• The Lord opened her heart to receive Paul’s message, and she immediately responded in faith by being baptized along with her household.

3. Lydia’s Generosity and Kingdom Impact

• One of Lydia’s first acts after her conversion was to open her home to Paul and his companions, inviting them to stay.

• Her home became a key gathering place for the early church in Philippi, making her one of the first Christian hosts of a house church.

• She used her resources, influence, and hospitality to support the growth of the early Christian movement.

4. What We Learn from Lydia

• Business and faith can work together – Lydia’s success in business did not hinder her spiritual life; instead, she used it to serve God and others.

• Generosity and hospitality matter – She willingly gave what she had for the sake of the gospel.

• God calls entrepreneurs – Lydia wasn’t a preacher or missionary, but her business gave her the means to fund, support, and advance the early church.

Lydia stands as a model for Christian entrepreneurs today—someone who combined faith, business, and generosity to make a lasting impact.

Reflect on your daily calendar and duties. Where can you use your influence to introduce someone near you to the love that God has for them? How can you use some of the proceeds of your labor to advance causes that impact the lives of others for Christ? We have limited time on earth, and much of it is spent at work. Let’s incorporate more spiritual entrepreneurship where we can!

-Mark

Doors are Flying Open

Knock, and the Door will be Opened.

Lately, it feels like doors are opening faster than ever before—not just any doors, but ones that lead to meaningful conversations about the bigger picture. Conversations about faith, purpose, and Jesus have been more frequent than I can remember.

Coming out of the Christmas season, it’s no surprise that Jesus has been on our minds. The holidays naturally inspire generosity and bring us closer to loved ones. But something feels different this year. We’ve seen His name honored publicly, like during the Ohio State vs. Notre Dame football game, where both teams openly gave glory to Him on national platforms like ESPN. Revivals are spreading across college campuses. Parents are witnessing their children on fire for their faith, which has sparked a self-reflection on their own spiritual journeys.

This past week, I’ve had more heartfelt conversations than ever before—breakfasts with men questioning what truly matters, lunches with those navigating challenging seasons, and meetings filled with deep prayers for our work and the year ahead. These moments have been raw and real, exposing the trials people are facing beneath the surface. These trials are leading them to seek what is lasting and true.

The amazing thing? I’m not a pastor. I’m a business professional, just like many of you. These conversations are happening in spaces like finance, marketing, and leadership—places we might not expect. But these open doors are a testament to what God is doing.

He is inviting us to step through these doors, to reach out to those who are searching for Him. The words of Matthew 7:7-8 remind us:

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Those who are seeking often find someone like you or me standing on the other side of the door. The question isn’t whether God will provide His truth and love to those searching; He will. The question is whether we will rise to the opportunity to be His hands and feet during this incredible time of seeking.

This calling isn’t limited to church walls. It could happen in your office, warehouse, store, or even your social media feed. God is showing us open doors—are we ready to walk through them?

Let’s prepare our hearts and recognize the opportunities God is placing in front of us. Let’s be ready to welcome those who knock.

Blessings,
Mark