This week in our Philippians series, we discussed how joy is made complete through unity and selflessness in the body of Christ. Drawing from Philippians 2:1–11, Charlie Loften highlighted Paul’s teaching on relationships, exploring both the practical call to value others above ourselves and the deep theological truth that Jesus—fully God and fully human—chose humility and service over status. We considered why it can be difficult to live selflessly, and how following Jesus’ example means laying down our own interests for the sake of unity. Through real-life stories and honest reflections, we were invited to rethink how we approach conflict and generosity in our families, churches, and communities. Ultimately, we learned that God lifts up the humble and that true joy comes not just from receiving grace, but from living it out daily. As you listen, take some time to consider how unity and service might deepen your own faith and relationships.

This week on Cultivate, we explored the parable of the mustard seed and the yeast from Matthew 13. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked how Jesus used these everyday images—a tiny seed that grows into a huge plant and a small amount of yeast that transforms a whole batch of dough—to explain the surprising nature of God’s kingdom. We discussed the expectations many had for a dramatic, immediate revolution and how Jesus’ vision was something quieter but more subversive: real change starts small, takes root, and eventually reshapes everything around it. Along the way, we learned what these images would have meant to a first-century audience—often carrying unexpected or even negative associations—and why Jesus chose them to challenge the status quo.

We reflected on what it means for the kingdom of God to work slowly and sometimes unexpectedly in our own lives and communities. Join us as we consider how faith grows, often from humble beginnings. Take some time this week to reflect: What small seeds is God planting in your life?

This week in our Philippians series, we discussed what it means to choose joy, even when life is uncertain or difficult. Building from Philippians 1:18–30, Charlie Loften shared how Paul, writing from prison, encourages the church by demonstrating deep trust in Christ amidst suffering. We explored how Paul’s joy isn’t disconnected from his circumstances, but anchored in the reality of Jesus’ work and the presence of the Holy Spirit—giving us a foundation for hope no matter what we’re facing.

We looked closely at how joy and suffering intersect, the difference between true biblical joy and fleeting happiness, and why God invites us to find Him in both the highs and lows. Through real-life stories and honest reflection, we were reminded that even when outcomes are uncertain, God is always at work in and through us. Whether you are wrestling with big questions or looking for practical encouragement, take time this week to consider where you can find joy and trust God through your own crossroads.

This week on Cultivate, we dug into the Parable of the Weeds from Matthew 13, exploring what Jesus really meant when He described the kingdom of heaven as a field where wheat and weeds grow side by side. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone examined Jesus’s explanation of this parable and how it overturns expectations about God’s kingdom—moving away from an immediate, dramatic revolution and toward a patient, enduring hope. We discussed why God allows evil to persist in the world and how His desire for people to turn to Him shapes His patience. Along the way, we wrestled with tough questions about judgment, justice, and the nature of God’s character—highlighting that, while God tolerates evil for a time, there’s a loving purpose behind it. This episode encouraged us to rethink what it means to live in God’s kingdom now and challenged us to trust His wisdom in a world that’s often messy. We invite you to reflect on these truths and consider how faith shapes your view of justice, patience, and hope.

This week in our Philippians series, we discussed the powerful theme of finding true joy and purpose regardless of our circumstances. Mark introduced the book of Philippians and highlighted how Paul, even while writing from prison, was filled with gratitude and deep joy because of his partnership with fellow believers. Key passages like Philippians 1:6 (“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion”) and “for to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” helped us see how joy isn’t simply about feeling happy—it’s rooted in knowing and living out God’s purpose for our lives.

We explored what it means to be partners in the gospel, using both biblical examples and practical stories from everyday life. Whether it’s offering encouragement, sharing our resources, or simply inviting someone into our faith community, every act done for Christ matters. As you listen, consider where your deepest joy comes from—and how God might be inviting you to join His bigger mission today.

This week on Cultivate, we kicked off our Parables series by diving into the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored why Jesus chose to tell this story to a diverse crowd gathered by the lake, unpacking both the practical challenges of parable storytelling and the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ words. Together, we looked at the different types of “soil” representing people’s hearts and how God’s Word is sown generously, regardless of someone’s background or readiness.

We discussed how original listeners might have been puzzled by the generosity—even what seemed like recklessness—of the sower, and what that reveals about God’s extravagant and inclusive love. As we connected this ancient agricultural image to our own lives, we considered not just how we receive truth, but how God’s openhearted invitation challenges our ideas about who gets to be included in His family.

Take some time this week to reflect on your own posture toward God’s message—and consider how His generosity might reshape your understanding of faith.

This week in our 1 off 2025 series, we discussed how Jesus calls us to respond to Him with genuine humility and childlike faith. Drawing from Luke 18:9–17, Ben Clark shared Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, highlighting the contrast between self-reliance and honest dependence on God. We saw how the Pharisee tried to impress God through good deeds, while the tax collector simply admitted his need for mercy. The message explored the difference between trusting in our own efforts and relying on God’s grace—a theme that runs deep through Scripture and everyday life. We also considered Jesus’ teaching about receiving the kingdom of God like a child, recognizing that true faith means acknowledging our need and turning to God for transformation. Whether you’re new to these stories or revisiting them, we invite you to reflect on how humility and trust can shape your spiritual journey and your relationships with others.

This week in our Christmas series, we discussed the promise of hope and light found in Isaiah 9, as Charlie Loften shared how God meets His people in seasons of waiting and uncertainty. Exploring the story of Israel’s divided kingdoms, we looked at the challenges Judah faced under King Ahaz—spiritual darkness, political oppression, and longing for change. The passage’s prophecy, “For to us a child is born,” pointed not just to King Hezekiah’s temporary relief, but ultimately to Jesus, who brings lasting peace, joy, and righteousness. Through personal reflections and historical context, Charlie Loften invited us to consider where we seek resolution and how God’s promises often arrive differently than we expect—meeting us one heart at a time and calling us to celebrate what He’s already done. As we anticipate Christmas, we’re encouraged to wait in hope and let the light and joy of Christ’s coming transform our perspective on everyday struggles. Reflect on where you might need God’s light in your own life and what it means to trust Him in the waiting.