Where's Your Focus?

Last night, my wife and I were blessed to have two friends and mentors over for dinner. Both are in pastoral ministry of their own kind and have become people we deeply trust. Whenever we sit with them, we know the conversation will be rich, and the wisdom timely.

I’ve noticed a pattern: I’ll often walk into our time together carrying some kind of weight. Concerns, questions, things I’m wrestling through. And by the end? I feel lighter. Refocused. Ready to take on whatever comes next.

Why?
Because they do something powerful: they help orient my focus back to God. Back to purpose. Back to the One who has full control over what will or will not play out.

Last night was no different. I shared a story I’ve been carrying for a few weeks...something I’ve been praying through, seeking clarity on. (Funny… we’re always seeking clarity. That’s probably a whole other article.) After listening, one of them gave it to me straight: “Stop focusing on the event. Focus on Christ—the one who had and has the power over what happened, and what happens next.”

Simple. But dramatic. A shift in focus that changed everything.

As I reflected more, I realized this isn’t a new concept. Jesus did this all the time. He consistently pulled people's focus off their immediate problem and pointed them to a deeper truth, a greater power, and an eternal perspective.

Here are just three quick examples:

1. Calming the Storm – Mark 4:35–41

“A great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat… But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion.”
“He awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’”

• Focus Shift: The disciples panicked at the storm. Jesus was asleep, completely unbothered. When He woke, He didn’t react to the storm’s intensity. He simply rebuked it. Then He addressed their faith, not the storm. The storm isn’t the point. His power over it is.

2. Feeding the 5,000 – John 6:5–13

“Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?”
Philip answered, ‘Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough…’
“Jesus then took the loaves… gave thanks… and distributed them.”

• Focus Shift: The disciples focused on logistics—on what they lacked. Jesus focused on what they had. He doesn’t magnify the lack. He multiplies the little. 

3. Healing the Blind Man – John 9:1–7

“Who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”
Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned… but that the works of God might be displayed in him.”

• Focus Shift: The disciples were looking for blame. Jesus looked for an opportunity for God’s glory. Jesus doesn’t dwell on the cause. He reveals the purpose.

We could keep going. Scripture is full of moments like these. The theme is clear: if you’re fixated on the obstacle in front of you, maybe it’s there for a reason. Maybe it’s your invitation to lean in—not to the problem, but to the presence and purpose of God.

So ask yourself:

• Are you dwelling on the issue, or turning your attention to the One who has authority over it?

• Are you trying to control outcomes, or resting in the One who already sees them?

• Are you focused on what’s missing, or what God might be doing with what’s already in your hands?

When we shift our focus to Jesus, putting our trust fully in Him and walking forward under His authority, things begin to change. The noise quiets. The meaning becomes clearer. And the weight we carried starts to feel lighter.

So…
Where’s your focus?

-Mark

Don’t Judge a Book…

Too many times in life, I’ve learned the lesson: don’t judge a book by its cover. But recently, I unlocked a deeper way of seeing both people and situations by tweaking that old saying just a bit.

Don’t judge a book by its cover. Judge it by its author.

Let’s break that down.

When we read a book, what gives it true power isn’t the design on the outside—it’s the intent, message, and experience embedded in its pages by the author. The same is true with people. We are physical beings, yes, but we do not author ourselves.

God does.

It’s God who places the potential and purpose inside every life, regardless of the packaging. And this isn’t just an idea...it’s truth, backed by His Word.

“But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’”
— 1 Samuel 16:7 

Wow. That hits.

When I think about my favorite books, I rarely remember whether they were hardcover or paperback, or what font was used. What I remember is the author. How they told the story, the emotion they captured, the way their words moved me. I follow my favorite authors. I look forward to what they’ll release next.

What if I applied the same method to how I see people?

What if I studied those around me? Not for their surface, but to understand their potential and discover what their Author is writing through them?

God is constantly at work—always telling new stories, always shaping hearts. He sees beyond the exterior and focuses on what’s within. We should too.

Lately, I’ve encountered some people who, at first glance, may not seem impressive. But I can feel something stirring. I see God beginning to work in their hearts, shifting their story and growing their influence. The world may not notice yet....but God does.

So today, if you catch yourself judging someone based on their "cover," take a step back. Consider the Author.

When it comes to people, God is the Author of life. He’s got something beautiful to say if we’re willing to turn the pages and look inside.

-Mark

It's All About Potential!

It’s All About Potential.

Today I had the chance to reflect on a concept that always hits hard when I evaluate my daily effort and the outcomes it produces. I pay a lot of attention to results. When things don’t measure up to expectations, I often head back to the drawing board to figure out what went wrong. I’m constantly looking for ways for our teams to improve, but if I’m honest, anything less than perfection often feels like failure.

And if I’m double honest, I’m not even sure what perfection really looks like. It’s like I’m hoping it’ll somehow hit me during the process, as if I’ll stumble into it by accident. I’m funny that way.

So what caught my attention this morning?

A mentor I deeply respect shared something during the Bible study he leads that made me pause. He brought up how God delivered instruction to humanity in the very first chapter of Genesis. Let’s look at the verse together—and as you read, remember these words:

It’s always been about potential, not perfection.

Genesis 1:28
"And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’"

How do we see the potential?

• “Be fruitful and multiply” — a command to grow and reproduce.

• “Fill the earth and subdue it” — the Hebrew word for subdue (kabash) means to bring under control or steward.

This verse is often read as God giving humanity both a blessing and a responsibility—the sacred charge to care for and manage the earth.

But today, one word stood out to me: subdue.

The point my mentor made was this: If God had been focused only on perfection when He partnered with humanity in the garden, wouldn’t He have said “don’t touch it”?

Instead, He said subdue it. He gave us responsibility. He invited us into partnership. That means the world was filled with potential, and He trusted us to help shape it.

That truth helped me today.

God handed over responsibility, knowing the potential it would draw out of us. He placed us in a creation that needed to be subdued. Not because it was flawed, but because it had room to grow, just like we do.

So what does that mean for me?

As I work, especially in the missions I believe I’ve been called to, I can rest easy knowing that God never expected perfection from me. He entrusted me with responsibility knowing I would fall short sometimes. And yet, He still invited me to work with Him.

That gives me peace.

Because every day I show up and give my best, I honor Him. Even in imperfection, He is glorified—because He is perfect.

Thanks to Kuch and the fellas at MI3 this morning for helping me see something new.

Wishing you all a fantastic weekend—go enjoy that sunshine!

-Mark

"Looking Around" | This is Our Time

Birthdays. Why That Specific Day?

Today is my birthday.
It’s funny because I’ve never really given my birthday much thought. Being on Cinco de Mayo has always added some extra fun over the years, but ironically, I never go out for Mexican food on my birthday—the places are always packed!

As of today, I’m 41.
Just typing that feels strange. I can still remember turning 10 like it was yesterday. Then 16. 18. 21. 30.
How the heck did 41 come around so quickly?

Birthdays are mile markers in our lives. They give us reason to reflect. On where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re headed.

I can remember being a kid. Everything was about looking forward.
Do you remember that? Looking forward to your birthday?
I can remember why I did. It was simple stuff. I loved the chocolate Entenmann’s donuts.
You know, the cheap ones on the end caps at the grocery store. I'd always ask my mom to get them for my birthday breakfast. She always did.

My dad would wake up early and sing this ridiculous song to us on our birthdays when we were kids. Eventually, everyone would join in. We opened presents in the morning, because with six kids in the house, the evenings were pure chaos. Sports, homework, and noise until we crashed into bed.

25 years ago today, my Grandpa drove down the street in his old truck to give it to me for my 16th birthday. An '84 Ford that I still have to this day. That truck and I are the same age. He died later that year, but every time I slide into that driver’s seat, the smell brings me back to rides with Grandpa when I was just 3 or 4 years old. That’s a birthday I’ll never forget.

As we grow older, birthdays shift.
They stop being about looking forward and start being about looking around—and eventually, looking back.

At 41, I find myself "looking around" a lot.

I’ve done quite a bit, but I’m not done.
I know more than I used to, but not nearly enough.
My desires have changed, but I still hold on to what was.
And when I look to the future…I’m more unsure than I’ve ever been.

It’s strange being in this in-between.
I still feel young in a lot of ways.
I know I don’t want to get old.
But somehow, this moment—this exact time and place—feels like it was made specifically for me.

And I didn’t realize that until I started walking more closely with Jesus in the day-to-day.
He doesn’t make mistakes.
Not with words. Not with lessons. Not with purpose.
And especially not with timing.

The God of the universe had a birthday, just like me.
His was intentional. Specific.
Mine may not be as consequential to the degree of eternity, but still—He stepped into time at a certain moment, just like I did.
He had a real purpose, just like I do. Just like you do.

And the best part?
Now that I’ve aligned my purpose with His, we’re just getting started.

There’s a Bible story that always moves me. The story of Esther.
A Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia at a time when her people are in grave danger.
In Esther 4, her cousin Mordecai challenges her to act, saying:

“And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
— Esther 4:14 (ESV)

That phrase echoes deeply: For such a time as this.

Maybe your gifts, your position, your experiences...maybe they were designed for this exact moment.
You were born for a reason. So was I.

We’re here for a purpose in the places we inhabit.
Our skills brought us to the industries, companies, and people we interact with.
Jesus knows exactly how He intends to move in our lives…if we’ll only let Him.

Birthdays have a funny way of surfacing thoughts like these.
I’m glad they do.

So, here’s to 42.
I don’t know exactly where it will go, but I do know who it will glorify.
And if I’m blessed with the full 365, I know whose purpose I’ll be serving.

I hope that at your next cosmic milestone, you’ll pause and reflect—and move forward—with Jesus by your side.

-Mark

Modern Parables

The Fisherman and the Businessman

Today’s story wasn’t chosen by me. It was handed to me, twice, from two different sources. That’s usually a sign that God wants me to hear something. And if that’s the case, I don’t want to leave you out. Maybe He wants you to hear it too!

It’s a story you may have heard. But it’s worth repeating.

There was a well-to-do American businessman in desperate need of a vacation. After pushing off a calendar full of meetings and responsibilities, he carved out time for a trip with his wife and kids to the Caribbean. They rented a beachside villa, packed their bags, and set off for a week of rest.

On their first day there, while sipping a drink under the sun, the businessman noticed a local fisherman heading to the beach. The man was skilled. Casting his line with ease, catching five large fish within a short time. Then, just as simply, he packed up and left.

The businessman noticed the same man return later in the day...this time with his family, laughing and enjoying the sunshine. The next day? Same routine. Catch a few fish. Head home. Spend time with loved ones.

By the third day, curiosity got the better of the businessman, and he struck up a conversation.

“I’ve watched you,” he said. “You catch just a few fish each day, then you’re done.”

The fisherman smiled. “It’s enough. A few for my family, a few to sell. We live comfortably.”

The businessman, intrigued, saw an opportunity.

“You know,” he began, “if you stayed out longer, caught more, you could sell more. In a month or two, you could afford a bigger boat. Then a second one. Eventually, you could build a small fleet, hire other fishermen, and grow a real operation.”

The fisherman raised an eyebrow. “And then?”

“Well,” the businessman continued, “you could start a distribution business, or open a restaurant. Then, once you scale enough, you wouldn’t have to fish at all. You’d just manage the company, maybe hire someone to do that, too.”

The fisherman smiled again. “And then what?”

“Then,” said the businessman with a sense of triumph, “You could relax. Spend time with your family. Enjoy the sunshine. Do what makes you happy.”

The fisherman chuckled and replied, “Sir… that’s what I’m doing right now.”

This modern-day parable is a gentle challenge to how we view success and contentment. I’ll be honest, I’m someone who sees good in chasing excellence. I've push hard throughout my career. Often to the point of exhaustion, but that's for another article. I believe in using our gifts fully and don't see anything wrong with that.

But I’ve noticed something: I tend to lose focus when I care more about what’s next than what’s now.

Maybe you’ve experienced that, too.

The truth is, God wants to meet us right where we are. Not just in the big plans for someday, but in the small, sacred moments of today. In the mundane. In the normal. In the overlooked.

Business teaches us to plan ahead. Next month’s pipeline, next quarter’s forecast, next year’s growth. And that’s not a bad thing. But don’t miss the ride. Don’t exchange what is for what could be.

I’m grateful this story found me again today.  And I hope it reaches you the way it reached me.

Have a fabulous weekend. Enjoy your family. Soak in the sunshine.

-Mark

Passing the Readiness Test

A Test of Readiness

Ok - this thing is called "Daily Tithe". Today let's compare a lesson that Jesus taught us and how tithing can assist us in passing the test of readiness.  

In Matthew 25, Jesus tells a striking parable about ten virgins awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom. All ten start in the same place—waiting with anticipation. But only five bring extra oil, prepared for a delay. The others, caught off guard when the bridegroom finally arrives, find themselves shut out of the wedding feast.

This isn’t just a story about oil or lamps—it’s about spiritual readiness. The parable reminds us that following Jesus isn’t only about how we start. It’s about how we continue. It’s about staying awake, staying filled, staying faithful—until the very end.

Tithing plays a quiet but powerful role in that spiritual readiness. When we tithe, we do more than give money—we shape our hearts. We build a rhythm of putting God first. With each tithe, we say, “Jesus, I’m living for You and Your Kingdom. I’m not living for myself.” It’s a regular declaration that our lives are aligned with eternity, not with temporary things.

This kind of readiness isn’t abstract. It’s not a hypothetical test—it’s our daily reality. Jesus could return at any moment. Or we could step into eternity at any moment. Life moves forward moment by moment, and while we don’t know when our final moment will be, we know it’s coming.

What makes readiness difficult today is not just sin—it’s distraction. The sheer volume of noise in modern life numbs our spiritual awareness. According to The Times, the average American spends roughly 2.5 hours per day on social media. Teenagers spend even more—nearly 5 hours per day. Add to that the average 2 hours a day watching television (with those over 65 watching over 4 hours daily), and we’re looking at over 31 hours per week of screen-based media. That’s the equivalent of more than 68 full 24-hour days each year—over two months spent consuming content instead of cultivating life.

This isn’t harmless background noise—it shapes us. It builds a rhythm, too—but one designed to distract, dull, and disconnect us from God. Left unchecked, this rhythm draws our attention away from what matters most and slowly erodes our readiness.

Tithing cuts through that noise. It establishes a counter-rhythm—one of surrender, priority, and trust. Most of us receive income on a consistent schedule. Tithing aligns that routine with divine purpose. It turns a paycheck into a spiritual practice. It takes something ordinary and infuses it with eternal significance.

Will tithing alone make every part of your life spiritually ready? Of course not. But it’s a step that invites more of God into your life. It’s a discipline that disrupts worldly monotony and creates space for holy awareness. It’s a practical act of devotion in a world full of distractions.

Let’s not be caught unprepared. Let’s be like the wise virgins, whose lamps were full and whose hearts were ready. Let’s live lives that declare: “Jesus, I know You are coming—and I’m living like it.”
Let’s pass the test of readiness—not by accident, but by intention.

-Mark

LEAN ON ME...AND YOU

Lean on Each Other’s Strengths

Most of us have taken some sort of strengths, gifts, or personality test at some point. It could have been StrengthsFinder 2.0, a spiritual gifts assessment, or something specific for your current role. These tools help us understand where we’re naturally wired to thrive. But here’s the thing: understanding your strengths is only the first step. Actually utilizing your strengths —and the strengths of those around you—is a whole different story.

In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to try doing things yourself. With a few clicks, you can watch a YouTube tutorial and learn how to complete nearly any task. That’s fine if time is unlimited. But for those of us with full plates and tight schedules, learning to lean on others and operate in community is not only efficient—it’s biblical.

Just today, I had the chance to help a friend lay the foundation for his new business venture. In just a couple of hours, we knocked out what might’ve taken him days to do alone. Why? Because the work was squarely in my lane of expertise. He’s done the same for me in the past—offering help in areas where I would have fumbled badly. That kind of mutual support is not just wise; it’s essential.

We weren’t made to do everything solo—especially the important things. Let’s look at some powerful biblical examples:

Bezalel and Oholiab – Skilled Craftsmen for the Tabernacle
Exodus 31:1–6; 36:1–2
God specifically chose and filled Bezalel and Oholiab with “the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all kinds of skills.” Their God-given craftsmanship moved the Tabernacle project forward with excellence and speed.

We see that delegating to those with God-given skills accelerates excellence.

Solomon – Building the Temple with Expert Help
1 Kings 5–6
Solomon, though wise himself, wisely partnered with Hiram, king of Tyre, who provided expert builders and the finest materials. The Temple, a massive and beautiful structure, was completed in just seven years.

Here we see Solomon seek outside expertise to quicken and elevate God's work.

Nehemiah – Rebuilding Jerusalem’s Walls
Nehemiah 2–6
Nehemiah didn’t rebuild the wall himself. Instead, he organized a diverse group—priests, goldsmiths, merchants—and assigned each section strategically, often based on proximity to their homes. The wall was finished in just 52 days.

We see Nehemiah use strategic collaboration and morale-boosting leadership to expedite progress.

We are all made unique. We all possess different strengths. We should celebrate that truth. Not as a limitation but as a divine design. When we wisely rely on one another, we don't shrink ourselves—we elevate others. And in doing so, we move further, faster, and bring greater glory to God and His wonderfully diverse creation.

So let me ask:
Is there someone you need to call to help move a project across the finish line?
Is there someone who could use your expertise today?

Take time to reflect. Evaluate your strengths. And ask God to show you how to steward them—and share them—for His glory.

-Mark

Cover Your Team

I love team meetings. I know a lot of folks don’t, but I genuinely do — for multiple reasons.

First, our meetings happen at a consistent time and day each week. Proximity matters. Both to each other and to our mission. No matter what obstacles or curveballs come our way, each of us can count on gathering every Monday.

Second, our meetings give us a real-time pulse on progress and issues. We don’t just meet when things go wrong, and we don’t only celebrate when things go right. We talk about all of it, all the time. A lot of small groups and churches talk about "doing life" together. At our company, we "do mission" together — and making meeting a regular practice is part of that commitment.

But the most important reason I love team meetings is this:
We cover our team in prayer.
We don’t start a meeting without it.

Having a big mission that honors God and loves our neighbors is exciting — but it can also be difficult. Our aim is higher than just profit. Our reasons run deeper than simply making a living. That can invite additional scrutiny and adversity, which requires even greater faith and trust — both in each other and in God.

Covering our team in prayer is a biblical practice, encouraged throughout Scripture.
Here are some key verses about asking God for protection, provision, and guidance:

Proverbs 16:3
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans."
→ Before starting any meeting or project, prayer commits the work to God and invites His guidance.

James 1:5
"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
→ Asking for wisdom through prayer is especially important before decisions or discussions.

Philippians 4:6–7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
→ Prayer brings peace and guards hearts and minds before stressful meetings or important conversations.

Psalm 127:1
"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain."
→ A reminder that all efforts must be rooted in God’s blessing and presence, which we seek through prayer.

Colossians 3:17
"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
→ Starting a meeting with prayer helps align the team's words and actions under Christ’s name.

These verses tell a story of faith and trust in God.

Each week, our teams step into environments where influence is needed — inside and outside the organization. They interact with employees, vendors, partners, leaders, and, perhaps most importantly, customers.

The impact they have can be significant...either positively or negatively.

So cover them in prayer.
Build their trust and faith in their work.
Jesus is already in the room...He's just waiting for you to pull Him up a chair!  

-Mark

Preparations: Where We’re Going and How We’re Leaving

Today, my family and I are heading out on a trip to St. Louis to visit relatives for the weekend. As we packed bags and loaded the car, I couldn’t help but notice how much goes into not just preparing for where we’re going, but also for how we’re leaving.

Outside the house, we’ve made sure things are buttoned up. The neighbors are watering the plants and grabbing the mail. Trash cans are pulled up from the curb. You get it.

Inside, my wife has a strict “no mess left behind” rule. I actually have come to like this rule. Coming home to chaos kills any peace you had while returning. So, beds are made. Carpets are vacuumed (yes, that’s my job). The dishwasher is running, and everything will be in order when we walk out the door.

It struck me that preparing to leave, and leaving well, are skills we often possess, but don’t always practice intentionally. We instinctively want to leave things neat, cared for, and complete. Why? Because no one likes walking back into a mess. And because we recognize that, sometimes, we don’t come back the same way we left — or at all.

The same principle applies to life transitions, leadership, and legacy.

None of us can complete every task, forever. Eventually, someone else will need to take up the mantle. Whether it’s a job, a role in a ministry, a family tradition, or a relationship dynamic — how we leave matters. Leaving behind order, clarity, and encouragement honors the people who come after us.  And it honors God.

Let’s look at a biblical example of someone who lived this out with integrity.

David: Preparing to Leave and Empowering the Next Up

King David had a deep desire to build a temple for God — a permanent house of worship. But God said no, because David had been a man of war and bloodshed (1 Chronicles 28:3). Instead, God chose his son Solomon to build it.

David could have responded with frustration or disappointment. But instead, he leaned into what was still his to do. He prepared the way for Solomon and for the entire nation.

“You are not to build a house for My Name... but your son Solomon will build it...” (1 Chronicles 28:3, 6)

Rather than resisting God’s “no,” David embraced his role. One of the most powerful ways we finish well is by knowing when our assignment ends and someone else’s begins.

David Gave the Plans

“All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me...” (1 Chronicles 28:19)

David didn’t just say, “Good luck, Solomon.” He handed over detailed blueprints — divinely inspired plans for the temple’s structure and sacred objects. He gave Solomon clarity. Spiritual and strategic preparation.

David Gave Resources

“With all my resources I have provided for the temple of my God...” (1 Chronicles 29:2)
“In my devotion... I now give my personal treasures...” (v. 3)

David gave generously from his own wealth and led the people to do the same. He invested in a project he’d never personally complete — a model of sacrificial leadership and long-term vision.

David Gave Glory to God

“Wealth and honor come from You... You are the ruler of all things.” (1 Chronicles 29:12)

Even in transition, David didn’t make it about himself. He led the people in praise and worship, reminding everyone that this wasn’t about a king — it was about God.

David didn’t finish the temple. But he finished his part. He prepared the space, the people, and the leader. He made things clean, clear, and ready.

Back to You and Me

So yes — I’m about to go vacuum the living room. But this little trip reminded me that we all have spiritual “spaces” we need to clean up before stepping into what’s next.

Are you preparing others for a road you’ve been walking?

Is there a project, relationship, or role you need to hand off with care?

Is there something messy that needs to be tidied in case you're called elsewhere?

Take a glance around your world today — physically, emotionally, spiritually — and ask:

• What needs cleaned?

• What needs made clear?

• Who needs to be ready?

Let’s be people who don’t just go places, but leave well — with grace, intention, and legacy in mind.

-Mark

Time to Listen: Hearing God’s Voice

This morning, I had the opportunity to meet with a small group of men at C3, a gathering within the CBMC network (Christian Business Men's Connection). Great group of guys—and it’s growing fast. Today’s speaker walked us through something that’s both deeply personal and widely misunderstood: hearing the voice of God.

He talked us through how to recognize God’s voice, the different ways He speaks, and maybe most importantly—what to do once we hear Him.

God doesn’t limit Himself to one method or moment. He speaks in ways we can’t predict or count. He’s in and through everything, constantly looking for willing listeners to carry out His purposes.

Your Gifts Are Not an Accident

The spiritual giftings He’s placed inside each of us are no accident. He’s freely given us unique skills to impact the world around us. One gift I’ve honestly asked God not to give me is the gift of prophecy. It feels out there. Maybe even a little weird.  It's always seemed like a heavy burden to hear or see things others don’t.

I’m not sure I have it, but today I realized something: God can move prophetically through any of us, right where we are. You don’t need a title or a spotlight—just a willingness to listen and respond.

What Does Scripture Say About Prophecy?

The gift of prophecy is a Spirit-empowered ability to communicate God’s truth or revelation often used to strengthen, encourage, warn, or guide others. It’s not always about predicting the future. More often, it’s about being a voice for God in the moment.

Here’s what Scripture says:

• Acts 2:17–18:
  “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy...’”

• Romans 12:6:
  "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith..."

• 1 Corinthians 12:4–11:
  "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit... to another prophecy... All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills."

Prophecy is a gift. Some may walk in it more clearly or consistently, but all of us can hear God and be a vessel for His message.

A Simple Exercise to Hear God's Voice

One new method I learned today is surprisingly simple but deeply profound:

1. Close your eyes.

2. Take a deep breath.

3. In your mind—not out loud—say your first and last name.

Did you hear it? That inner voice, the one that spoke your name in silence? That’s the way in which you’re most likely to hear God’s voice. It’s that still, small voice inside.

Think back—have there been times when a thought came to you that felt more like a nudge than a noise? Times when the Holy Spirit may have been trying to get your attention, but you dismissed it as “just your own mind”?

I have.

Let’s Lean In

Today, let’s give God the space to move through our thoughts, our conversations, and our actions. If you feel a prompting, a prayer, or a word for someone—lean in.

Did someone pop into your mind randomly?
Send them a quick message. Let them know you’re thinking about and praying for them.

God is on the move.
Let’s be people who move with Him.

-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

From Moriah to Golgotha – It Is Finished

This morning, I had a time of deep reflection on the events of Good Friday—the day we remember Jesus dying on the cross. It’s a moment in history that echoes throughout eternity. On this day, the offspring of the woman spoken of in Genesis 3 crushes the head of the serpent once and for all.

Yes, you read that correctly.

Just after sin entered the world, God spoke of Jesus and His ultimate victory over sin. He already had a plan. Our perfect Lamb, slain for us, to make us clean.

Yesterday, I wrote of Jesus’ last words and His time with the disciples at the Last Supper. During the washing of feet in John 13:7, Jesus said, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” When Peter protests, “You shall never wash my feet,” Jesus responds, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

Jesus must indeed wash us—not just the dirt from our flesh, but the sin from our souls. We need His washing every day.

This day has been pointed to throughout all of Scripture.

In Genesis 22, Abraham is tested when asked to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. He is told to go to Moriah and make the walk with his son to what appears to be a sacrificial death. In verse 6, Abraham places the wood for the sacrifice on Isaac’s back—just as Jesus was made to carry His wooden cross to Golgotha.

Isaac, in verse 7, notices the wood and fire, but asks, “Where is the lamb?”
Abraham responds, “God Himself will provide the lamb.”

Indeed, He does.

Jesus—God in the flesh, the Word made manifest—supplies Himself as our holy and eternal sacrifice on this day. God chose this very place to test Abraham, and again chose this very place to provide the ultimate provision. On the mountain of the Lord, He provided all we would ever need.

Today, I found myself looking at this from another angle—from the lens of the Father.

Was the cross harder for the Son… or for the Father?

As a father myself, I believe it would be impossible to sacrifice one of my sons to save others from what they rightly deserve. Could you pour out that much grace, so abundantly, to shield others from their just punishment?

I couldn’t.

But God could. And He did.
He loves us that radically.

When He looks at us and weighs the cost, He says, “You were worth it.”
You. Me. All of us.

Jesus’ love is immeasurable and uncontainable.
There is enough of it to cover every sin—and everyone.

His blood contains life and life everlasting, and on this day, He poured it out for all people, for all time.

What a day it is.

Let us never forget it.
Let us always hold fast to the love that God has for His creation.

That’s you.
That’s me.

Jesus, thank You—for Your love, for Your heart, for Your willingness to save me, and for washing me clean each and every day.

-Mark

We Celebrate Jesus' Last Words

Powerful Last Words

Have you ever thought about what you would say to the people you love most if you had just one final conversation with them before you died?

Just sit in that thought for a moment.

I just did — and the thoughts that rushed through my mind were filled with love. Urgency. Clarity. The most important things I’d want to leave with them. There would be no time for useless banter. No room for distraction. I’d be locked in. Wasting nothing. Doing my best to give them everything I had in that moment.

Today, we remember The Last Supper — Jesus’ final meal with his friends. The people he had poured into. His twelve... soon to be eleven.

This was his last conversation before the cross. These were his last words, and they’re recorded for us so beautifully in the Gospel of John.

Let’s break down just a few of the key moments from this sacred time.

John 13

The Devil had already prompted Judas to betray Jesus.
And yet — Jesus washes his feet.
He kneels down, taking the position of the lowest servant, and washes the feet of each of the twelve. He begins these final hours by serving them. Teaching them. Showing them that no servant is greater than his master.

Judas soon leaves to do what he was going to do.
Then Jesus gives them what he calls a new command:

“Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

John 14

Jesus begins to comfort them. He tells them he's going to prepare a place for them — that his Father’s house has many rooms.

When they ask how they’ll know the way, Jesus gives one of the most powerful “I Am” statements in all of Scripture:

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6

By knowing Jesus, we know the way.

And even as he prepares to leave them physically, he promises the Holy Spirit — a Counselor, a Helper, who will live in and work through them. Through us.

We are not alone.

John 15

Jesus gives this beautiful image: “I am the vine, you are the branches.”
If we remain in him and he in us, we will bear much fruit. But apart from him, we can do nothing of real consequence.

He warns us, too:

“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” – John 15:18

The servant is not greater than the master. Following Christ fully will set us apart — and the world may not respond kindly. But we’re chosen out of the world for something greater.

John 16

He tells the disciples that their grief is coming. That they will scatter. But he is not alone — the Father is with him.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!
I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

John 17

Jesus begins to pray. First, for his disciples:
Not that the Father would take them out of the world, but that he would protect them in it.
That they would be sanctified by the truth — your word is truth.

And then he does something incredible.
He prays… for us.

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message…” – John 17:20

That we would be one, as Jesus and the Father are one.

How powerful are these final words?
These are the things Jesus chose to say before he fulfilled his mission on the cross:

• Love one another.

• Remain in me.

• You’re not alone.

• You will grieve, but you will rejoice.

• Take heart.

• Be one.

Words filled with love.
With selfless service.
With grace — knowing those who love him would fall away.
With truth — unshaken by the world’s opinions.
With encouragement — to hold on in hardship.
With hope.
With unity.

These are the things I’ve come to fully count on Jesus for:

Love. Example. Grace. Truth. Encouragement. Hope. Unity. Fulfillment.

Thank you, Lord, for your willingness to reveal these things to us — in our time, and for all time.
We love you.

Thank you for these powerful last words.

-Mark

Today I had the privilege of witnessing two powerful examples of what it looks like to live out a calling.  Examples of leadership marked by sacrifice, not status.

This morning, I interviewed a member of our Tithe team on our YouTube channel. He’s someone who has consistently displayed what it means to be a servant leader. Over the past several years, he has given freely of his time, energy, and resources—not for recognition, but to make a lasting impact. What started as a small men’s Bible group has grown into something that resembles a small church.

That group didn’t just stay in study mode. They’ve gone from occasionally volunteering at a men’s respite house to becoming a key force behind large donations and financial support for the homeless and addicted in our city. Today, he even sits on that organization’s board of directors.

None of this was done for personal gain. It came at a personal cost. And yet, the glow on his face, the joy in his voice—it's contagious. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment that can only come when you're walking in step with your calling.

Later in the day, my wife and I had the honor of hosting a table at the “Be the Story” event for Central Ohio Youth for Christ. The work YFC is doing in the lives of young people is nothing short of transformational. I won’t go into all the details—honestly, you should check them out yourself.

Scott, the Director of YFC, delivered a message about calling that stuck with me. He’s been leading YFC for nearly 30 years. With his talent and intelligence, he could have easily succeeded as an engineer or business leader. But instead, he chose to give his life to the work of reaching the next generation. Not because it offered the most accolades or income, but because it aligned with what God was doing in his life.

Scott didn’t choose the most prestigious path.  He chose the most purposeful one for him despite a personal sacrifice. That’s not a knock on business leaders—I’m one myself. But it’s a reminder that no matter what field we’re in, we all have opportunities to lead others toward Christ. And sometimes, that calling will cost us something.

One biblical example that continually challenges me is Moses. His story is marked by radical obedience and profound sacrifice:

• He gave up comfort – Leaving a quiet life as a shepherd to confront Pharaoh.

• He endured criticism – The very people he led grumbled, doubted, and rebelled.

• He interceded selflessly – When the people sinned with the golden calf, Moses pleaded for them, even saying:
   “But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” (Exodus 32:32)

• He never reached the Promised Land – Moses led faithfully, knowing the fruit of his labor would be for others, not himself.

That’s servant leadership. That’s calling.

Today, I saw two men living like that. Freely giving of themselves. Obeying the call on their lives. Not worried about enjoying the Promised Land here and now—but working to help others get there.

My prayer today is simple: that wherever you are on your journey, God would give you moments to experience the deep joy that comes from living a life of selfless impact. That you’d count the cost—and find it worth every step.

-Mark

Don't Carry Your Calling Solo

Shared Experiences – We Need Others

There are many unique callings that we find ourselves in throughout our lifetimes. Here's an example of mine from today that I hope encourages you. 

Being an entrepreneur is a unique calling.  It's a distinctive form of leadership that is hard to understand unless you've walked in it. I’ve held leadership roles at established companies, but nothing compares to the weight of owning a business. When you’re the one at the helm, the buck doesn’t just stop with you — it lives with you. The responsibility, the risk, the relationships, all yours to carry.

For those of us striving to be great business leaders, it’s not just about profit. We pour ourselves out for our teams and our customers. We want excellence for the people who count on us. That kind of care can be exhilarating. It can also be exhausting.

And that’s why we need each other.

We need people who understand the weight — not just in theory, but because they’re rowing their own boat through the same kind of water.

Today, I got a taste of that. I stopped by North Pointe Auto Group in Plain City, OH — the place I take all my cars. Been going there for years. Why? Because years ago, when I needed a quick repair on my grandpa’s old truck, I met the owner. Not only was he kind and engaging, but he was clearly grinding — doing his best to go above and beyond. You could feel the effort. It was contagious. It still is.

Today we caught up. We encouraged one another. Two men in different industries, but with the same mindset: serve people well. That’s a shared experience. And it lifted my spirit.

It reminded me of David and Jonathan in Scripture.

“The soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”  1 Samuel 18:1

Their bond wasn’t casual. It was forged in pressure. Both were warriors. Both bore the weight of leadership. Both knew what it meant to walk in calling under fire.

Jonathan, the king’s son, saw God’s hand on David. Rather than resist it, he embraced it. He gave David his robe, sword, and armor — symbols of power and trust (1 Samuel 18:4). It was his way of saying, “I see what God is doing in you. And I’m with you.”

Later, as David fled from Saul’s wrath, Jonathan sought him out:

“Jonathan went to David at Horesh and strengthened his hand in God.”  1 Samuel 23:16

That’s what real support looks like — not someone showing up to fix everything, but someone showing up to lift your eyes back to God, and to remind you that you’re not alone.

As entrepreneurs, as leaders, as believers — we need that.
We need others in our corner, walking similar paths, carrying similar weights. When we find each other, we find strength.

So if you're in the grind, keep going. But don’t go alone.
Encourage someone today. Let someone encourage you.
We were never meant to carry this calling solo.

Always forward. Together.

-Mark

Interruptions and New Assignments

The Wrinkle in Our Plans

Kicking off the week is always an exciting time for me. Sunday nights are when the weekend winds down, and preparation mode kicks in. I start mapping out the week ahead—goals, meetings, to-dos.

Monday mornings come early. By noon, our team has already reviewed past performances, evaluated upcoming priorities, and aligned on the communications needed for our partners and clients. It’s a fun rhythm. Everyone’s locked in, ready to execute their assignments.

But every now and then, a wrinkle shows up. Something we didn’t plan for. A curveball that demands our attention—personally or professionally.

This week for my family, it came in the form of a sick second grader who needed care, comfort, and time. No matter how much we plan or prepare, life has a way of handing us a new assignment. Sometimes, that new thing becomes the main thing.

Jesus Interrupted (Mark 5:21–43)

I’m reminded of how Jesus handled moments like this.

In Mark 5, Jesus had just crossed the sea when Jairus, a synagogue leader, approached Him, urgently begging Him to come heal his dying daughter. Jesus agreed and set out immediately. The mission was clear, time was critical.

But then...an interruption. A woman, who had been bleeding for 12 years, quietly touched the edge of His cloak in the crowd. She believed that one touch could heal her. And it did.

Now, Jesus could’ve kept walking. The healing already happened. But He stopped. “Who touched Me?” He asked. His disciples were baffled. People were pressing in everywhere.

Still, Jesus waited. The woman came forward trembling, and Jesus said, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.”

That moment wasn’t just about physical healing. It was about seeing her, affirming her, and restoring her fully in body, soul, and dignity.

And while it looked like Jairus’ daughter had died during the delay, Jesus still went and raised her from the dead.

What can we learn from Jesus?

• Jesus wasn't rushed, even on a critical mission.

• The interruption was just as important as the destination.

• When led by compassion, we make time for people—not just plans.

• God’s timing may feel inconvenient, but it’s never wrong.

So wherever today finds you -  executing flawlessly or already off track - be ready for the unexpected. That side conversation, that minor disruption, that detour—it might not be the thing you planned for...

But it just might be the main assignment.

Today, for me and my son, I know that’s exactly what it was.

-Mark

Pouring Out and Pulling Back

At the end of a long week, what I look forward to most are the precious couple of hours I get with my family on Friday nights. They've become a needed reprieve as activities, responsibilities, and involvement have steadily increased over time.

For many of us, by the week's end, we’re spent. For some, it's physical exhaustion. For others, it's the mental toll of stressful situations. And for some, it’s something even deeper — the emotional strain of just trying to keep going, or maybe just trying to get along.

Lately, my actions have been very deliberate. I’ve chosen them. And I wouldn’t trade out a single one, individually. Each of them is aligned with the mission I’ve committed to live out in my work and in my life.

But collectively? They have a way of wearing me out.

And yet, pouring out, in my opinion, is what we’re meant to do. These efforts aren’t wasted — they’re purposeful. They’re part of something greater. But we must also remember to take our pull backs in an orderly, intentional fashion or we risk burning out entirely.

Jesus knew this. And He modeled it perfectly.

Let’s look at an example from Mark 6:30–32:

“The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”

So, what's the context here?
The disciples had just returned from being sent out two-by-two to preach, heal, and cast out demons. They were spent — physically, emotionally, spiritually. Jesus Himself had just received the news that John the Baptist, His cousin, had been executed. The weight of ministry, grief, and fatigue was real.

And what does Jesus do?
He doesn’t say, “Let’s push through,” or “There’s still more to do.”
Instead, He says, “Come with me. Let’s rest.”

Not “Go rest” but “Come with me.” He invites them to pull back with Him...Not in isolation, but in relationship. To be in peace. In quiet. Together.

That’s not just leadership — that’s love. That’s family. That’s the voice of someone who understands the deep human need for connection and restoration after seasons of pouring out.

So today, as we reach another Friday night, I want to pat you on the back for the work you've poured yourself into this week. I congratulate you on the good you’ve done, the effort you’ve given, and the energy you’ve spent with purpose.

Now I encourage you: pull back. Even if it’s only for a little while.
Spend time with your family, with those you love most. Let it refill you.

Our leader in Christ showed us how to do it —
Let’s follow Him in that way, too.

-Mark

Here’s to the Uncommon Ones

Uncommon Missions

I love when I see someone pursuing a big mission or dream. There’s something about it that transcends the norm—especially when it comes at a cost. These are the people who truly inspire us, the ones we remember long after they’re gone.

Most missions today have become common. Especially in the business world, they tend to follow the same pattern. Something like:

“We strive for excellence in xyz. We aim to leave a legacy in our community of excellence and service doing xyz. Our mission is to be an excellent provider of xyz for years to come, making an impact for those we serve.”

You get the point.

At their core, most missions are about doing more of what we do, for as long as we can do it, and for as many people as we can reach. That’s not all bad—it’s just common.

Uncommon missions, on the other hand, fulfill those same goals but also aim to bring something bigger into the space they occupy. Their impact goes beyond the product or service, and into the hearts of people. They stir something. They challenge norms. They advance some kind of meaningful change.

And often? It costs those pursuing it.

But for the few people it truly impacts, it could mean the world.

A Biblical Example: John the Baptist – Living in the Wilderness

Mission: Prepare the way for the Messiah by preaching repentance in the desert.

Why it was uncommon:
John lived off locusts and wild honey, wore camel hair, and preached truth boldly to religious elites. There were already plenty of preachers and scholars—probably some who knew the scriptures better than John.

But John wasn’t called to plant a synagogue or teach weekly Torah studies. His mission was prophetic: to prepare hearts, challenge expectations, and stir anticipation for something far greater than himself.

That kind of mission doesn’t come without a cost. Social isolation, harsh living conditions, and eventually—his life.
Can you imagine eating bugs for the sake of your calling?

Praise God most of us aren’t called to that. But we are called to something.

Quick Mission Check

I personally love examining mission statements. And I’ve boiled it down to a simple exercise you can use to check if your mission is truly uncommon:

Ask yourself two questions:

1. Who gets the glory if this mission succeeds?

2. Who does our mission ultimately serve if we win?

If either answer points inward—to you, your company, or your own gain—then it’s likely a common mission. Again, there’s nothing wrong with profitability or building a great team culture. Companies need to win.

But if the only reason your mission exists is to make money and keep going, eventually things grow stale. Culture fades. Purpose drifts.

If your answers are outward—glory and service go to others (or better yet, to God)—then you’re likely onto something uncommon.

Let’s Be Uncommon This Week

Let’s pursue purpose that stretches beyond ourselves. Let’s step into missions that inspire, challenge, and maybe even cost us something. Because that’s where the true impact is found.

Here’s to the uncommon ones.

-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

Wearing Hats That Fit

Some people call it "wearing a lot of hats." It’s a common phrase, especially when you're involved in a mix of work, relationships, and community efforts. But this week, as I reflected on the range of roles I stepped into, it hit me: it’s not just about wearing many hats—it’s about wearing hats that fit.

Early in the week, we kicked off Q2 with our mortgage team. Big goals ahead after a strong Q1, and the energy was awesome. Midweek, I found myself deep in business and nonprofit conversations Just doing the normal work of the week. And then last night, I stood in worship, present and humbled, as we consecrated our church's new location. What a night. What an honor.

And somewhere in between all that? I rolled up my sleeves to help push a brick-and-mortar business through the final stretch before its public launch. From spreadsheets to sacred space, from renovations to revelation. It was a fun week.

But here's the thing: when we aim to honor God and live a life of impact, there’s no shortage of ways He’ll use us. Remember the kind of people He's looking for. He’s looking for willing ones. The key isn’t doing everything—it’s doing what He’s called you to, in the moment He’s called you to it.

Let’s look at a few examples of "hat-wearers" in Scripture:

David
Shepherd → Musician → Giant-slayer → Fugitive → Warrior → King → Psalmist

• Started as a humble shepherd boy

• Became Saul’s musician and armor-bearer

• Defeated Goliath (1 Samuel 17)

• Fled from Saul as a fugitive

• Rose as a mighty warrior and commander

• Crowned King of Israel

• Wrote much of the Psalms 

Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus)
Pharisee → Persecutor → Missionary → Tentmaker → Author → Pastor → Prisoner

• Zealous Pharisee who persecuted Christians

• Radically transformed on the road to Damascus (Acts 9)

• Became a missionary to the Gentiles

• Supported himself as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3)

• Wrote much of the New Testament

• Shepherded churches and mentored leaders

• Spent his final years in chains—for the Gospel

Deborah
Judge → Prophetess → Military Leader → Mother in Israel

• One of the few female judges (Judges 4–5)

• Spoke God’s word as a prophetess

• Accompanied Barak into battle

• Called a “mother in Israel” (Judges 5:7)

Wearing a lot of hats is often talked about as exhausting—or something to avoid. But wearing hats that fit? Now that’s something different.

God gives each of us unique gifts, strengths, and assignments. And when we walk closely with Him, we learn to recognize which hat to wear in each season—or each day.

My hope is that as you reflect on your own week, you’ll recognize how God is moving in your life, through your work, your relationships, and your faith. May your hats fit well, and may your purpose be clear.

Prayers and blessings to each of you this Friday.

-Mark