They’re Waiting for an Invite

I’m finding more and more as I age that the façade of being cool, having it all together, and knowing the next steps is just that…a façade.

When I was younger, admitting that I needed help was hard. Admitting that I was looking for answers felt like weakness, and because of that, I hid in a world full of others likely feeling the same way.

Now, with a few more notches of experience on my belt, I’m realizing something: the older versions of “us” still don’t have it all figured out. We’re still searching for purpose. We’re still wondering what’s next.

The difference is this — most of us now know we’re not all that cool. We understand that we’ll never fully have it all together, and we’re finally ready to admit that and move toward things that truly matter.

So, what’s stopping us?

In my personal experience — it’s an invitation.

I’m no longer surprised to see the joy in someone’s eyes when they’re invited to give, to serve, or to use something they’ve been blessed with to impact another life. It’s not a burden; it’s a gift. Connecting the dots to real purpose in the middle of ordinary life is one of the most freeing things I’ve ever seen.

I’ve watched tears form in grown men’s eyes as they were invited into community.
I’ve seen business leaders transform through generosity.
I’ve watched hardened men soften while serving on the front lines of local nonprofits.

All because they were invited.

A Biblical Precedent

If we want to learn from the best, there’s clear precedent.
Jesus used the simple invitation “Follow Me” more than a dozen times in the Gospels.

Here are just a few:

1. Simon Peter and Andrew – Fishermen
   “Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
   — Matthew 4:19; Mark 1:17
   They immediately leave their nets — giving up their livelihood.

2. James and John – Sons of Zebedee
   Jesus calls them, and “immediately they left the boat and their father and followed Him.”
   — Matthew 4:21–22; Mark 1:19–20
   They give up family and business to follow. 

3. Matthew (Levi) – Tax Collector
   “Follow Me.”
   — Matthew 9:9; Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27–28
   He leaves a lucrative, corrupt profession — giving up wealth and status. 

4. The Rich Young Ruler
   “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor… then come, follow Me.”
   — Matthew 19:21; Mark 10:21; Luke 18:22
   Invitation rejected — he couldn’t give up his wealth.

5. Philip
   “Follow Me.”
   — John 1:43
   A simple but life-changing call — he leaves to bring others (Nathaniel).

It’s interesting, isn’t it? These were all grown men.
We don’t know if they were actively searching for meaning or contemplating a change.
Some had money. Some didn’t. Some had skills and influence; others didn’t.

But all of them had one thing in common — they were invited into something powerful and pure.
They were asked to give up something in order to gain everything.
They were invited into a life that transformed them from the inside out.

So, Two Things for You Today

#1 — An Invitation.
If you’re looking to connect your work to eternal Kingdom impact — shoot me a message. We’re doing that at Tithe Foundation, and I’m inviting you into the next step. We’ve made it incredibly simple. Invitation extended.

#2 — A Challenge.
Who in your life is ready to put down the façade?
Who’s quietly waiting for an invitation into something more?

It could be as simple as an invite to church on Sunday.
An invite to your small group this week.
An invite to coffee and a real question — “How are you, really?”

Start small. See where a simple invite might lead.

For the disciples, “Follow Me” changed everything.
Maybe for someone you know, your invitation could too.

-Mark

Handling Crazy Financial Times.

How to Handle It

I felt the need to write something about the current market and the very uncertain future that has become the norm over these past few years. The truth is, the future has always been uncertain. But ever since the pandemic, it feels like more and more of us are living on edge financially. The steadiness many once knew has been shaken when viewed strictly from the world’s point of view.

A few examples come quickly to mind:

1. From the top, our government deficits have become outlandishly large, and the unsustainability of these numbers stares us in the face each week through media and headlines.

2. Rapidly changing technology in AI and crypto has created anxiety about how our businesses and livelihoods may look in the years ahead.

3. Inflation is difficult to calculate but impossible to deny when we’re at the grocery store or buying a house. 

4. And of course—insert your own here. Each of us has felt the pressure of uncertainty in some personal way.

With that said, today I’d like to remind us of what Jesus said when He walked this earth in the flesh. He was human too, and the people of His day faced very real uncertainties. But instead of adding to the fear and noise, Jesus spoke a very different word. Let’s take a look.

1. Do Not Worry About Provision

“Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear… But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
— Matthew 6:25–33

Jesus reminded us that God provides for the birds of the air and the flowers of the field—and He values us far more than them. In times of uncertainty, Jesus points us away from fear and toward trust in our Father.

2. Store Treasure in Heaven, Not on Earth

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
— Matthew 6:19–21

Earthly wealth can vanish, especially in shaky economies. Jesus calls us to invest in what lasts forever: generosity, faith, and obedience. Seasons of lack and seasons of plenty will come and go, but our hearts should remain steady. With open hands toward our neighbors and faithful trust in God, we will endure whatever comes.

3. God Cares for His People

“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
— Luke 12:6–7

Even in financially fragile times, Jesus reassures us that God notices and values us. He knows us better than we know ourselves. He sees the uncertainty, and He tells us not to fear—because He will provide.

How to go out this week.

Remember what we read in 1 John: “The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” Our aim as Christians is not to satisfy every earthly concern or secure a fleeting sense of safety. Yes, we should be wise, make sound decisions, and act justly in the areas we control. But we should not spend our lives consumed by worry and fear about what might come next.

So today, as headlines shout for our attention, let’s keep opening our Bibles. Let God’s Word speak louder than the markets. And once our minds and spirits are renewed, let’s step out to bring perspective, hope, and the love of Christ to those around us.

-Mark

Am I Working or Playing?

This week, my schedule was all over the place. I had meetings for my businesses, projects for Tithe Foundation, commitments with other nonprofits, things at my boy’s school, and prep for future podcasts and book releases. It felt like a mess on paper—but the truth is, I loved every bit of it.

It reminded me of something a business mentor once told me. He said he hoped that, from the outside looking in, people would never be able to tell if he was working or playing. Was he doing something that brought in revenue, or was he giving freely of his time and energy? The goal wasn’t to separate the two—it was to live in such a way that they blended together.

That stuck with me, because the real magic of fulfillment comes when we use our strengths, gifts, time, and resources for things that truly matter to us. That’s when we’re most aligned with our Creator—using what He’s given us to glorify Him. And more often than not, the clearest way we do that is by loving others.

Jesus talks about this very thing in Matthew 5:14–16:

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

When we put our gifts to work—whether in business, ministry, or everyday life—God’s light shines through us. It can’t be hidden. Others see it in action, often more clearly than through a sermon or a book. Our actions bear witness to His love, and that glorifies the Father.

What’s interesting is that when I’m using my gifts, I’m not consciously thinking, “Let your light shine.” I’m usually just doing the work in front of me, and it feels natural. But when I see someone else living fully in their calling, it’s unmistakable. Their light shines bright, and it’s clear that God is being glorified. Funny how it’s often easier to spot in others than in ourselves.

So this weekend, wherever you are, remember this: God has uniquely gifted you. He’s uniquely gifted everyone you know. Use your light—and when you notice someone else shining theirs, tell them. Thank them. Because sometimes it’s hard to tell if someone is working or playing. And honestly? That’s the best part.

-Mark

You are Not Just Chasing the Wind

My Work IS Ministry

These past two weeks I’ve had conversation after conversation with people who are using their work, their expertise, and their relationships to advance meaningful conversations about Christ with those who don’t yet know Him. It’s humbling to hear these stories.

I’m not shy about my faith, but I’m still learning how to fully recognize and appreciate the daily opportunities in front of me—not just to make a difference in someone’s day, but to potentially impact their eternity.

Here’s what’s humbling: more often than not, it’s not some big thing that “I” need to do. God opens hearts when they’re ready. My part is often found in the small, ordinary things I’m already doing—the simple gateways that invite conversation and give a real-life example of Christ’s love. Not in sermons. Not in complicated theological debates. But in real life.

Last week, I re-read the book of Ecclesiastes. It’s a challenging read if you’re already questioning whether your daily work matters. Some verses will make you feel that point even deeper unless you’re ready to wrestle with them.

Solomon writes:

“For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.” – Ecclesiastes 1:18

I’ve felt that. There have been times when I’ve achieved big goals, only to be met with a sort of emptiness. Everyone moves on. Life resumes. And that moment you thought would pause the world… just passes.

Solomon puts it bluntly:

“Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.” – Ecclesiastes 2:11

But that phrase “under the sun” matters. Because there are gains in this life—and in the next—that aren’t always visible in earthly terms. Later, Solomon lands on a simple truth:

“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” – Ecclesiastes 3:12–13

We’re here for a short time. We must eat and drink, yes—but we’re also called to find satisfaction in the work God’s given us. That means your job, your gifts, your location—it’s not random. It’s a God-placed opportunity.

And if you approach it with that perspective, you may not just change someone’s earthly future—you could change their eternal one.

So today, if you feel like you’re chasing the wind… if knowledge feels like it’s only adding to your grief… take heart. Your work matters. Every day is full of redeemable moments with the people around you.

Open your heart. Ask great questions. Take interest in others. And you may find that God will use you right where you are in ways more meaningful than anything on your résumé—impacting lives not just under the sun, but for all eternity.

-Mark

More than a Meal.

Have a Meal!

Last Saturday night, I had the joy of sitting down to a traditional five-course Italian meal prepared by a great friend and his wife. There were six of us around the table.  Let me tell ya, they went all out. Every dish was cooked to perfection and brought out in a perfectly timed sequence. You could taste the love in every bite. I wish I could cook like that!

But as amazing as the food was, the best part of the evening wasn’t on the plate. It was around it. It was in the conversation. In the laughter. In the stories. There’s something powerful about sharing a meal with people you care about. When you break bread together, you also break barriers. Issues are explored, opportunities are vetted, and life is lived out in real time bite by bite. 

It’s no wonder Jesus so often chose meals as moments for ministry. Of all the things the gospel writers could have shared, many of the most memorable scenes take place around a table. Here are just a few:

• The Calling of Levi (Matthew’s Banquet)
  Matthew 9:10–13; Mark 2:15–17; Luke 5:29–32
  Jesus eats with tax collectors and sinners at Levi’s house, angering the religious elite, but offering grace to the hungry and broken.

• Meal After the Disciples’ Mission Trip
  Mark 6:30–31
  After sending the disciples out to preach and heal, Jesus brings them back together to rest and to eat.

• Dinner at Martha and Mary’s House
  Luke 10:38–42
  Jesus dines at the home of His friends. While Mary sits at His feet and Martha serves, the table becomes a place of teaching and tension and grace.

• The Last Supper
  Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39; John 13–17
  This wasn’t just a meal. It was a moment that changed history. Jesus used bread and wine to illustrate the coming sacrifice of His body and blood. These were His final words before the cross.

Jesus did more than just eat at these meals. He taught, challenged, comforted, and loved. And He still does.

Meals have a way of slowing us down. They quiet our scattered thoughts and center us in the moment. The table gives us space to pray, talk, listen, and really see the people around us. In a world where we’re always on the move, these opportunities are rare, but they’re worth making time for.

So this week, make the effort. Carve out time. Invite a friend. Have a real meal. Let Jesus pull up a chair at your table. You might be surprised by what He reveals in the breaking of bread.

And to my incredible friends who made that night so special—thank you. You know who you are.

-Mark

"Who's the Wise Guy?"

Wise Guys...

Over the past two days, I’ve had eight face-to-face meetings with business partners within our Foundation. Each conversation was meaningful, each person unique. These are men and women undeniably called by God into distinct businesses and ministries, yet united by a common mission: to impact the world around them for Christ.

But my final meeting today stood out. It was a quiet personal meetup, and it was powerful.

This particular man has been a mentor and coach to me for the past two years. We haven’t spent tons of time together, but the time we have spent has been of the highest quality. He knows me. I mean to the core of me. My strengths and gifts. My goals and desires. My stories, both the inspiring ones and the messy ones.

Our conversation today touched on a lot of topics. But I paused to tell him something important.

Yes, he’s considerably older than me. Yes, he’s wise.
Yes, he’s trained to ask great questions and offer strong feedback.

But none of those are what make him unforgettable.

What he isn’t trained to do, what doesn’t show up on his résumé, is something you can see in his eyes the moment he sits across from you.

He cares.
He really, truly cares.

It’s in the way he looks at you. The way his eyes respond to the words you speak. The way he notices how you’re sitting, how your shoulders carry the day. The way he hears even what you didn’t say about the issues or opportunities you're discussing. 

He gives away what God has given him, not just on the outside—but from within. His presence is a gift. A donation of the heart. And that kind of offering can’t be measured. It’s priceless.

I saw two verses from Hebrews come to life in him today:

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. — Hebrews 13:1
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. — Hebrews 13:7

May we each take something from this and apply it to our next conversation.

Let our goal not simply be to provide wisdom or insight.
Let our goal be to love. To care deeply for the person across from us.
Let us watch those who live out their faith well and let their lives be a beacon of hope to follow.

Thank you for the dedicated time today, and for being an example.
You know who you are.
I appreciate you, wise guy. 

-Mark

Presence Looks Like This

The Power of Being Known

This weekend, I had the opportunity to learn from one of the greatest leadership minds of our time—not just locally, but worldwide. Dr. John Maxwell. He’s written nearly 100 books, been an influential speaker and teacher for decades, and remains a source of wisdom for leaders great and small.

We were blessed to have him at our church and to attend a special session where he broke down a well-known parable in ways I had never seen before. After the event, I had the chance to spend a brief minute or two with him—and in that short time, I received a masterclass in leadership.

He made me feel important.

He seemed genuinely interested in me.

He shouldn’t have been…I’m not that interesting!  But in just a couple of minutes, he shifted my perspective—not just on leadership, but on what it means to make someone feel seen.

When someone we admire, someone in a position of influence, pauses long enough to really notice us, we feel it. It’s not fake. It’s not casual. It’s presence. And it’s powerful.

Presence Looks Like This

Dr. Maxwell didn’t just shake my hand and move on. He:

• Asked my name—and remembered it.

• Asked thoughtful questions.

• Noticed details—things I said, even things about my physical stature.

• Asked about my kids.

• Made me laugh.

• Encouraged me as we parted.

All of that… in just a few minutes.

It was simple, but not shallow. And it mattered.

Jesus Did the Same

There’s a moment in Scripture that reminds me of this—when Jesus shows us what it looks like to make someone feel known. It’s early in the morning, just after the crucifixion. Mary Magdalene is outside the empty tomb, mourning.

“Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying.” – John 20:11

She’s devastated. Confused. She’d just watched the man who changed her life suffer and die. Now even His body is gone. Two angels appear, and then Jesus Himself shows up—but she doesn’t recognize Him.

“Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?’” – John 20:15

She thinks He’s the gardener, and pleads with Him to tell her where the body has been taken.

Then comes one of the most powerful moments in all of Scripture:

“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’” – John 20:16

Just one word. Her name.

And in that moment, everything changes.

She turns and cries out, “Rabboni!” — meaning Teacher.

The Power of One Word

Jesus didn’t explain the resurrection first.

He didn’t preach.

He didn’t even quote Scripture.

He simply called her by name, and by doing that, He showed her: I see you. I know you. You matter to me.

Mary, who moments ago was weeping and lost, now becomes the first witness to the risen Christ.

As we begin our week, here’s something simple and life-changing: pick someone to see.

Look for the person who feels overlooked. The one who’s weary. The one who’s always pouring out but may never get filled.

Give them a few moments of your real attention.

• Ask their name.

• Ask a question that shows you care.

• Notice something about them.

• Encourage them.

That’s all it takes.

You don’t have to be John Maxwell.

You don’t have to be Jesus.

But you can be someone who sees others the way they did.

And for someone today, that just might mean everything.

-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

Finding Satisfaction: It's in the Simple Stuff

Finding Satisfaction: It's in the Simple Stuff

As this week comes to a close on this Friday afternoon, I find myself reflecting on the work that has been done. The meetings prepared for, the conversations had, the administrative tasks, and the daily in-the-weeds actions that I often enjoy but sometimes discount as small.  All of these little actions add up to the sum of the influence I've had on the world around me. Compared to the "bigness" of everything happening in the world, it may not seem like much. But what I’ve learned is that for those who have been touched by it, it may have meant everything.

I don't know if I love the book of Ecclesiastes or not. I agree with it, but the way it smacks you with reality makes me want it in small doses.  In it, Solomon reminds us over and over that many of our goals are nothing more than *“a chasing after the wind.”  This life is temporary. We often lose sight of that. Anything obtained or achieved under the sun will wither. What truly lasts are the things that carry into eternity.

Today, two verses from Ecclesiastes are on my mind:

Ecclesiastes 9:10:
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of wholeheartedly committing to the work in front of us while we have the chance, because life is fleeting.

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13:
“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.”
This verse reminds us that working diligently and finding contentment in our labor is part of God’s design for a fulfilling life.

Our work matters. I’ve seen it in action throughout the week. The encouragement we offer matters. The insights we provide, shaped by our experiences, matter. The physical work we do to move the needle on projects that are important to others matters. Providing for our families matters, because it allows us to experience moments of wholeness in the presence of those we love.

So as you end the week, know this: the good you’ve done and the work you’ve completed were not in vain. Find satisfaction in your work. It is a gift from God! Enjoy your weekend and the people you share a meal or a drink with. These days will not last forever, but the people and your influence on their lives will.

-Mark 

Capturing Momentum: The Opportunities That Change Everything

Capturing Momentum: How to Harness the Opportunities That Change Everything

Momentum is a powerful force. In business, it can feel like striking gold—a moment when everything clicks, and your product or service connects deeply with your audience. But momentum doesn’t last forever, and how you act when you find yourself in this space can set the trajectory of your business for years to come.

Opportunities like these often seem to arise unexpectedly, and the most successful companies are those that recognize the moment and hit the gas when the timing is right. Let’s explore how momentum can transform a business and how preparation can make all the difference.

When Lightning Strikes: Stories of Momentum

Some of the greatest success stories in business come from companies that stumbled upon an opportunity and seized it decisively.

A great example is Nike’s partnership with Michael Jordan in the 1980s. At the time, Nike wasn’t the athletic giant it is today. But recognizing Jordan’s rising star and crafting the Air Jordan line changed not just Nike’s trajectory, but the entire sneaker and sports marketing industry. By seizing a moment when the culture was hungry for a basketball icon, Nike capitalized on the momentum and rewrote its story.

A Momentum-Capturing Story Happening Right Now

I recently met with two fellow Christians who are experiencing one of these moments. They’ve launched a podcast featuring Christian college athletes sharing their testimonies for Jesus. At a time when the country has become captivated by stories of faith, perseverance, and personal transformation, their podcast is uniquely positioned to fill this need with high-quality, meaningful content.

One of these two men has only known the Lord for about a year. In that time, God has radically transformed his life—his purpose, his priorities, and the way he spends his time. Now, through this podcast, he’s giving back to the world by amplifying the voices of young athletes who are boldly sharing their faith.

This is a Holy Spirit-filled moment of momentum. Their platform has the potential to reach thousands, even millions, of listeners hungry for authentic stories of faith. But to ensure the opportunity leads to sustainable growth and remains true to their mission, they’ll need to build a solid foundation to support what’s ahead.

The Key to Sustaining Momentum: Processes and People

Momentum can feel exhilarating. Doors open. Resources pour in. Attention skyrockets. But here’s the reality: without strong processes and people in place, momentum can quickly turn into chaos.

As a business leader, preparation is critical. Build your processes now. Invest in the right people now. Create systems and structures that align with your mission and values so that when your moment of momentum arrives, you’re ready to expand in an orderly way.

The tendency during rapid growth is to let chaos take over. But if your foundation is shaky, you risk losing the very essence of what made your product or service resonate in the first place.

For the two men I met with, this means ensuring their podcast production stays consistent, their content remains authentic, and their mission—to glorify God—stays at the forefront of every decision. By doing this, they can not only ride the wave of momentum but also build a lasting impact for God’s Kingdom.

Momentum is Coming. Are You Ready?

As business leaders, we often don’t know when our momentum moment will come. It might be tomorrow, or it might be years from now. But the ones who thrive in those moments are those who are ready for it.

Ask yourself:

• Do you have clear systems in place to scale your operations?

• Have you identified the people you’ll need to support rapid growth?

• Are your mission and values solidified so you can remain true to them, no matter how quickly you grow?

When you prepare in advance, you’ll not only recognize momentum when it strikes—you’ll be equipped to harness it in a way that honors your mission and creates lasting impact.

Momentum isn’t just an opportunity to grow your business. It’s a chance to change the trajectory of lives, inspire others, and leave a legacy. When your moment comes, will you be ready to seize it?

-Mark

Finding Meaning in the Maze

Finding Meaning in the Maze | Common Work can be Extraordinary

In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel stuck in a monotonous cycle. They see themselves as working ordinary jobs, living in modest homes, and going through daily routines that feel repetitive and insignificant. It’s easy to feel unseen, as though life is a never-ending maze where each turn only reveals another tunnel. A question often emerges in these moments: Does any of this really matter?

The book of Ecclesiastes captures this sentiment perfectly. Solomon, one of the wisest and wealthiest men to ever live, wrestled with the meaning of life. He observed that many pursuits—whether wealth, pleasure, or success—are ultimately a “chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14). He wrote of toiling under the sun, only to find that the satisfaction these efforts brought was fleeting. Life, he concluded, could feel meaningless when its focus is solely on earthly achievements.

But Solomon’s reflections weren’t meant to leave us in despair. Instead, they point us to a greater truth: our meaning is not found in what we accumulate but in who we serve.

Consider the life of Jesus. Our God and Savior, the King of Kings, chose to live His life on earth in the most common of ways. He grew up in the humble town of Nazareth, worked as a carpenter, owned no luxurious possessions, and wore simple clothes as He traveled to teach, heal, and serve. By worldly standards, His life might have seemed ordinary, even unremarkable. Yet, through His life and sacrifice, He transformed the world.

Jesus showed us that where we look for meaning matters. It’s not about what we gain but what we give. It’s not about who notices us but about who we notice. It’s not about what’s done for us but about what we do for others. God doesn’t see the acts of kindness, generosity, and love we offer as common. To Him, they are extraordinary.

Right where you are, with the gifts and opportunities you’ve been given, you have the power to make an eternal impact. Your time, talent, and treasure—when shared with others—become instruments of God’s grace. The mundane can become meaningful, and the ordinary can become extraordinary, when done in service to Him.

So, the next time you feel unseen or wonder if your life matters, remember this: God sees you. He values your efforts, no matter how small they may seem. In His hands, even the most common moments can carry eternal significance. Let us look to Him, the ultimate source of purpose and meaning, and live each day with the confidence that what we do for others truly matters.

-Mark

Letting your Light Shine

Blending Faith and Work: Letting Your Light Shine

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to compartmentalize different aspects of our lives. We often separate our faith from our professional pursuits, thinking they belong in distinct realms. However, as Christians, we are called to integrate our faith into every part of our lives, including our work. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This verse challenges us to view our work not just as a means of making a living, but as an opportunity to glorify God through our actions.

Faith in Action

Blending your Christian faith with your daily work is about more than just saying a prayer at your desk or putting a Bible verse in your email signature. It’s about embodying Christ-like values—integrity, kindness, humility, and excellence—in everything you do. When we conduct ourselves in a way that reflects God’s character, our coworkers, clients, and employers take notice. These actions, no matter how small, can plant seeds of faith in the hearts of others.

Imagine a workplace where every decision is guided by the principles of love and service. Such an environment not only fosters harmony and productivity but also serves as a living testimony of God’s grace. Whether you’re a teacher, a business owner, or a barista, you have the opportunity to reflect God’s light through your actions.

Glorifying God Through Excellence

Colossians 3:23 tells us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This perspective transforms how we approach our responsibilities. Instead of striving for accolades or recognition, we work to honor Jesus. When we give our best effort, regardless of the task, we demonstrate our gratitude for the gifts and opportunities God has given us.

Excellence in work also reflects the glory of God. By delivering quality and consistency in our jobs, we show the world that Christians are not only spiritually grounded but also dependable and diligent. This builds trust and opens doors for conversations about faith.

Overcoming Challenges

Of course, living out your faith in the workplace isn’t always easy. You may face skepticism, resistance, or even outright hostility. Yet, these moments are opportunities to rely on God’s strength and grace. Jesus Himself faced opposition but remained steadfast in His mission. By keeping your focus on glorifying Him, you can persevere through challenges and be a source of encouragement to others.

Your Light, His Glory

Ultimately, blending your faith with your work isn’t about seeking personal glory—it’s about directing the spotlight to Jesus. Every kind word, ethical decision, and act of service is an opportunity to glorify our Savior. When others see the light in your life, it can prompt them to seek the source of that light.

As you move through your day, remember the words of Matthew 5:16. Let your light shine brightly in your workplace. Whether through a kind gesture, a humble attitude, or a commitment to excellence, let all you do point others to Jesus. Your faith, expressed through your work, has the power to transform not just your career, but the lives of those around you.

-Mark